Ribbons of Love
Try this Ribbons of Love recipe, or contribute your own.
Try this Ribbons of Love recipe, or contribute your own.
- Carbohydrate 6.95539192079796 g
- Cholesterol 15.8026121322696 mg
- Fat 7.94709470584264 g
- Fiber 2.15600004673004 g
- Protein 6.70139867472009 g
- Saturated Fat 4.09665320033992 g
- Serving Size 1 1 serving (213g)
- Sodium 224.832044047412 mg
- Sugar 4.79939187406792 g
- Trans Fat 0.392679142522819 g
- Calories 118 calories
Step-by-step
- Shave squash, zucchini, and carrot lengthwise into very thin, ribbon-like strips using a vegetable peeler or mandoline until you reach seeds, then stop...(reserve cores for soup)
- Melt butter with 2 Tbsp. extra virgin olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat; add chopped onion and saute until softened and translucent;
- Add vegetable ribbons to saute pan, season with salt, and pepper; saute veggies till tender but not mushy
- Transfer vegetable mixture to a serving platter and cover to keep warm
- Cook pasta in large pot of salted boiling water, (about 5 quarts) Cook for 5-7 minutes or till desired softness.
- Drain pasta in strainer (Scolapasta) and reserve approx 2 cups of pasta water
- Add pasta to vegetable mixture, sprinkle with ½ cup grated cheese and gently combine all ingredients.
- Use reserved pasta water ( a little at a time) only if mixture becomes too dry.
- Top pasta with toasted pine nuts and sprinkle with extra virgin olive oil...yum! ..serve immediately and pass extra cheese around....
Ribbons of Love: A Weeknight Pasta Winner
Life as a working mom is a whirlwind. Between juggling work deadlines, school pick-ups, and keeping the house somewhat tidy, finding time for a delicious, home-cooked meal often feels impossible. But I've discovered the secret to effortlessly elegant dinners: simple recipes that pack a flavour punch without demanding hours in the kitchen. Enter: Ribbons of Love. This pasta dish is my go-to when I need a satisfying and flavorful meal on the table quickly, and it's surprisingly elegant enough for a dinner party.
The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity. The vibrant vegetable ribbons add a burst of fresh color and flavor, while the creamy, nutty pasta is the perfect comfort food. It’s a recipe that’s easily adaptable to whatever vegetables you have on hand – feel free to experiment with different combinations! One night I might use yellow squash and zucchini, and the next I’ll add in some bell peppers for extra sweetness. The possibilities are endless.
What makes this recipe so special? It’s not just the delightful combination of flavors. It’s the ease of preparation. The vegetable ribbons are quickly shaved using a vegetable peeler, and the rest of the process involves simple sautéing and combining ingredients. I often prep the vegetables ahead of time, storing them in the fridge for a truly speedy weeknight meal. The most challenging part is patiently waiting for the pasta water to boil – and even that’s easily remedied by starting the water sooner than you think!
This recipe is a testament to the power of fresh, seasonal ingredients. The vibrant colors of the vegetables are a feast for the eyes, and their flavors shine through in every bite. It's a recipe I’ve adapted and tweaked over time to perfectly suit my busy lifestyle and family's tastes. And the best part? My kids devour it! It’s become a family favorite, a quick and easy way to bring everyone together around the table for a delicious and satisfying meal.
Beyond the practical aspects, this dish holds a special place in my heart. It's a reminder that even amidst the chaos of daily life, taking the time to create a nourishing and flavorful meal can be a source of joy and connection. It's a small act of love, a ribbon of comfort in the tapestry of my busy week. And that's why I call it "Ribbons of Love." It's a love letter to my family, a symbol of my commitment to providing them with wholesome, delicious food, even when time seems to be slipping away.
So, try this recipe, and I guarantee you’ll find yourself making it again and again. It’s more than just a pasta dish; it’s a small act of self-care and a celebration of simple pleasures. And that, my friends, is a recipe for a happy life.
Tips and Variations:
- Vegetable Choices: Feel free to experiment with other vegetables like bell peppers, asparagus, or even thinly sliced eggplant.
- Pasta Shape: Pappardelle is a beautiful choice, but any long pasta works well.
- Cheese: Parmesan or Asiago would also be delicious alternatives to Pecorino Romano.
- Add-ins: Consider adding some sautéed mushrooms, sun-dried tomatoes, or spinach for extra flavor and nutrients.
- Spice it Up: A pinch of red pepper flakes adds a nice kick.
This recipe is a beautiful blend of simplicity and deliciousness. It is a celebration of fresh ingredients and a testament to the power of a home-cooked meal. It's a perfect dish for busy weeknights, yet elegant enough for a dinner party. Enjoy!
