Recettes
(Recipe) Romanesco Pasta with lemon, Parmesan & pine nuts
(Recipe) Romanesco Pasta with Lemon, Parmesan & Pine Nuts
Looking for a simple yet special pasta dish with a refreshing twist? This Romanesco pasta with lemon zest, parmesan, and toasted pine nuts is light, flavorful, and visually stunning. Romanesco—a beautiful, green vegetable that looks like a mix between broccoli and cauliflower—adds a nutty, slightly sweet flavor and a lovely crunch.
The addition of lemon, golden raisins, and parmesan creates a perfect balance of citrusy brightness, creamy richness, and subtle sweetness. It’s an ideal dish for warm evenings or when you’re craving something fresh and nourishing.
Ingredients
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1 fresh romanesco, cut into small florets
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100 g pine nuts, lightly toasted
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Zest of 1 lemon & juice of ½ lemon
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A handful of Parmesan cheese, freshly grated
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A generous handful of flat-leaf parsley, finely chopped
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Optional: 1 red chili pepper, deseeded and finely chopped
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350–400 g fusilli pasta
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50 g sultana raisins
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2 cloves of garlic, finely chopped
Instructions
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Cut the romanesco into small florets—just like you would with broccoli or cauliflower.
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Bring a pot of water to a boil and blanch the florets for 2 to 3 minutes. Drain and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process and preserve their bright green color and crisp texture.
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Cook the pasta in a separate pan according to the package instructions. Drain and set aside.
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In a large frying pan or wok, melt a knob of butter. Add the romanesco florets and stir-fry for a few minutes until they start to turn golden.
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Add the garlic and, if using, the chopped chili for a bit of heat. Stir in the toasted pine nuts and sultana raisins.
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Toss in the cooked pasta, along with the lemon zest, lemon juice, and chopped parsley. Mix everything well so the flavors combine.
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Serve with a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil and a generous sprinkle of grated Parmesan on top
Variation Tip
Want a stronger flavor? Swap the Parmesan for an aged farmhouse cheese for a deeper, saltier kick.
🌱 Recipe inspired by Hofweb – for wholesome, seasonal cooking with heart.