Pasta with Strawberries
Pasta with Strawberries
This unexpected yet delightful pasta dish blends the sweetness of ripe strawberries with the richness of Parmesan and the tang of balsamic vinegar. Light, flavorful, and refreshingly different, it’s an ideal choice for a summer lunch or a unique dinner idea.
Ingredients:
| Ingredient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Linguine or fettuccine | 1 pound |
| Fresh strawberries, sliced | 2 cups |
| Balsamic vinegar | ¼ cup |
| Olive oil | ¼ cup |
| Grated Parmesan | ⅓ cup |
| Salt & black pepper | To taste |
| Optional: Fresh basil | A handful, for garnish |
Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta
Boil the pasta in salted water following the package directions until it’s al dente. Drain well and set aside.
2. Sauté the Strawberries
In a large skillet, warm the olive oil over medium heat. Add the strawberries and cook for 2 to 3 minutes, just until they begin to soften.
3. Add Balsamic Vinegar
Pour in the balsamic vinegar and let the mixture simmer for another 2 to 3 minutes, allowing the strawberries to soften further and the flavors to meld.
4. Mix Everything Together
Add the drained pasta into the skillet and gently toss to coat it with the strawberry-balsamic mixture. Sprinkle in the Parmesan cheese and season with salt and pepper to your liking.
5. Final Touches
Let everything cook for 1 to 2 more minutes until the cheese melts slightly and everything is heated through. Remove from heat and top with fresh basil, if using. Serve warm and enjoy.
Tips & Variations:
- Add Heat: A dash of red pepper flakes adds a bit of warmth to balance the sweet and savory notes.
- Maintain Texture: Don’t overcook the strawberries — they should still have some bite for best texture.
- Creamy Twist: Stir in a splash of heavy cream or coconut milk to give the sauce a smoother, richer feel.
- Diet-Friendly Options: Use nutritional yeast or vegan Parmesan for a dairy-free version, and swap in gluten-free pasta if needed.
- Fancy Finishes: A drizzle of balsamic glaze and an extra sprinkle of Parmesan can elevate the dish when serving.
- Try New Vinegars: For a creative variation, substitute the balsamic vinegar with raspberry or red wine vinegar.
