Spicy Mentaiko Cream Pasta
#MentaikoRecipe #SpicyCreamPasta #HomemadePasta #GourmetPasta #QuickAndEasyMeal
Introducing a delightful Mentaiko Cream Pasta recipe, characterized by its clean, spicy kick without any heaviness. This dish is conveniently made using a store-bought cream pasta sauce and a single-serving microwaveable Carbonara pasta kit, enhanced with a generous amount of fresh mentaiko (spicy cod roe) for a savory and zesty flavor that stimulates the appetite. It offers the creamy texture of Carbonara pasta, elevated by the umami-rich mentaiko, resulting in a remarkably non-greasy and flavorful pasta experience. If you’re tired of ordinary cream or Carbonara pasta, this unique Mentaiko Cream Pasta promises a refreshing culinary adventure!
Ingredients- 3 pieces fresh Mentaiko (spicy cod roe)
- 2 Tbsp thinly sliced garlic
- 1 Tbsp dried whole chili peppers (peperoncino)
- 3 Tbsp extra virgin olive oil
- 1 tsp dried basil
- 1 tsp herb salt
- 1 tsp black pepper
- 300g store-bought cream pasta sauce
- 1 serving microwaveable Carbonara pasta kit
- 1 serving pasta (Spaghetti or Linguine recommended)
Cooking Instructions
Step 1
In a wide pan, heat 3 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil over low heat. Add 2 tablespoons of thinly sliced garlic, 1 tablespoon of dried whole chili peppers, and 1 teaspoon of dried basil. Gently sauté until fragrant, being careful not to burn the garlic. You’re looking for a nice aromatic base.
Step 2
Prepare 3 pieces of fresh Mentaiko. Mentaiko has a thin membrane encasing the roe. It’s essential to remove this membrane to use only the clean roe. You can use the back of a knife or a spoon to gently scrape or push the roe out from its casing. Discard the membrane.
Step 3
This shows how to gently push the Mentaiko roe out using the back of a knife. Using the blunt side prevents the delicate roe from breaking apart, keeping the individual grains intact.
Step 4
Place the separated Mentaiko roe into a clean bowl and set aside. This will be added to the pasta sauce later.
Step 5
This is a single-serving microwaveable Carbonara pasta kit. Since the portion isn’t very large, we’ll incorporate it directly into the sauce to enhance its flavor. No separate cooking is needed for this component.
Step 6
Pour the 300g of store-bought cream pasta sauce into the pan with the sautéed garlic and chilies. Bring to a simmer over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally until the sauce is warmed through.
Step 7
Once the sauce is simmering, add the prepared Mentaiko roe. You can also add frozen sliced mushrooms at this stage if desired for extra flavor. Stir well to combine everything as the sauce thickens slightly. The mentaiko’s savory and spicy notes will infuse into the sauce.
Step 8
Now, add the microwaveable Carbonara pasta directly into the pan with the sauce. Ensure it’s added in its uncooked state.
Step 9
Add 1 serving of pre-cooked pasta (like spaghetti or linguine) and a little bit of pasta water (reserved from cooking the pasta) to the pan. The pasta water helps to emulsify the sauce and bind it to the noodles. Season with 1 teaspoon of herb salt. You can adjust the seasoning later with Parmesan cheese if needed.
Step 10
Finally, sprinkle in 1 teaspoon of freshly ground black pepper for added aroma. Taste the pasta and if it needs more saltiness or depth, add Parmesan cheese to reach your desired flavor. Parmesan also adds a lovely cheesy richness.
Step 11
Transfer the finished Mentaiko Cream Pasta to a serving plate. Garnish with a sprinkle of parsley flakes for a visually appealing finish. Enjoy this delicious pasta: a creamy base that’s delightfully savory, complemented by the subtly spicy and bracing flavor of mentaiko, creating a uniquely satisfying and non-greasy dish. Experience the delightful kick of this spicy and refreshing cream pasta!
