Category Archives: Pasta

Garlic and Nutritional Yeast Pangrattato Pasta

Garlic and Nutritional Yeast Pangrattato Pasta by Alison's AllspiceBefore I knew what Pangrattato was, I used to call it spaghetti with breadcrumbs. Pangrattato is Italian for breadcrumbs.  Most often when I see this title used, it is used as a topping on pasta.  Garlic and nutritional yeast pangrattato pasta is just one in a million ways to make pangrattato.

All you have to do to make pangrattato is to heat oil in a skillet, add breadcrumbs and seasonings and cook until toasted to crunchy perfection.  Use it to top all your favorite pasta dishes, or just put in on plain spaghetti with an extra drizzle of olive oil.  You can use it on casseroles, and many other dishes as well. Continue reading

Smoky Pumpkin Pasta

Smoky Pumpkin Pasta by Alison's AllspiceI love pasta, and therefore, it is hard to believe that I have not tried this smoky pumpkin pasta before now.  The creamy sauce clings to the pasta in a way that is reminiscent of mac and cheese, but the flavors are more sophisticated.

The pumpkin really elevates the other savory flavors in the dish without getting lost itself.  Its creamy earthy tones are balanced by the smokiness of the paprika, which also brings the smallest touch of heat. Continue reading

Pan Seared Potato Gnocchi with Asparagus and Mushrooms

Pan Seared Potato Gnocchi with Asparagus and Mushrooms by Alison's AllspiceHave you ever tried pan seared potato gnocchi?  The soft, pillowy gnocchi get chewy and caramalized on the outside and stay tender on the inside.  I made mine with asparagus and mushrooms served with a miso sauce!

When I first tried this recipe, I tried making my own potato gnocchi.  The end result was delicious, but the process was a sticky gooey mess.  Needless to say, that recipe needs a touch more work before it comes to the blog. Continue reading

Clam Linguine alla Vodka

Clam Linguine alla Vodka by Alison's AllspiceFor this clam linguine alla vodka recipe, I decided to mash together two classic recipes, clam linguine and pasta alla vodka.  The results are delicious.  The sweet seafood-y clams are elevated by the rich, acidic vodka sauce.

I prefer chopped clams to whole clams for this recipe because they are packed in flavorful clam juice that you can use to thin the sauce.  I also found whole clams to be gritty in comparison, requiring a rinse that takes away some flavor.  As always, use what you like. Continue reading

Seared Artichoke and White Bean Pasta

Seared Artichoke and White Bean Pasta by Alison's AllspiceThis recipe is a classic example of how good canned vegetables can be.  I have tried this seared artichoke and white bean pasta recipe with frozen artichoke hearts as well and found it to be a little too dry.  The artichokes that are canned in brine are better suited for searing because they don’t dry out as much while they caramelize.

The searing process adds not only a pop of color, but also bring out the sweetness of the artichokes beautifully.  It takes a little time, so be patient.  The end result is a delicious yet simple pasta dinner. Continue reading

Lemon and Green Olive Pasta

Lemon and Green Olive Pasta by Alison's AllspiceThis simple bright lemon and green olive pasta is for those dreary winter days when you need a fresh pick-me-up.  Think of it like a trip to the beach.  The lemon represents the bright sunshine, and the briny olives represent the scent of the ocean. Continue reading

Miso Butternut Squash and Spinach Spaghetti Pie

Miso Butternut Squash and Spinach Spaghetti Pie by Alison's AllspiceWho else thinks that pasta is comfort food?  I can eat pasta all day, and this miso butternut squash and spinach spaghetti pie hits the top of the list!  Why?  This recipe has a few things that other pasta bakes do not.

A spaghetti pie is unique because it is bound together by egg, just enough that the strands stick together making cutable wedges.  Most bakes fall part upon serving, or have loads of cheese holding them together. Continue reading

Healthy-ish Stove Top Mac and Cheese

Healthy-ish Stove Top Mac and Cheese by Alison's AllspiceFall is finally in full swing, and that always puts me in the mood for comfort food like mac and cheese.  I didn’t want to compromise when I made my version, so you won’t find extra things like squash in this healthy-ish stove top mac and cheese.

Don’t get me wrong.  I love a good butternut squash cheese sauce, but when you want the real deal, nothing else will do. Continue reading

Creamy Smoked Tofu and Olive Pasta Salad

Creamy Smoked Tofu and Olive Pasta Salad by Alison's AllspiceI am not the only one in my family that likes to cook.  Many, many moons ago, I shared a lemon caper dressing recipe with my family that was a hit.  Not long after, this creamy smoked tofu and olive pasta salad recipe, using my dressing, was shared with me.

I don’t believe I would have ever google searched for a pasta salad like this one; the mix of ingredients seams random, but I promise you it is not.  The combination of flavors is specific and on point. Continue reading

Clam and Arugula Pasta

Clam and Arugula Pasta by Alison's AllspiceI enjoyed this clam and arugula pasta a lot this spring when the arugula was growing in the garden.  It is a light and refreshing meal that is quick and easy to make.  I can’t wait for my fall arugula patch to grow so that I can start enjoying it again!

I am a huge fan of simple veggie pasta dishes.  Pasta, especially spaghetti, is such comfort food for me.  When you add seafood such as clams, it takes elevates comfort food to the next level! Continue reading