If you’re looking to add a twist to your pasta routine, why not try incorporating eggs into the dish? This recipe infuses traditional pasta with bold flavors and the rich, comforting presence of eggs, all enveloped in a savory tomato and pepper sauce. Here’s how to make this hearty and satisfying meal, perfect for any day of the week.
Ingredients Needed:
- 1.5 liters of water
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 2 tablespoons olive oil (for boiling pasta)
- 500g packet of pasta (choose your favorite type)
- 3-4 tablespoons olive oil (for the sauce)
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 2 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste
- 1/2 tablespoon pepper paste
- Black pepper, cumin, and thyme, to taste
- 4 eggs
Cooking Instructions:
Step 1: Prepare the Pasta
- Boil the Water: Start by bringing 1.5 liters of water to a rolling boil in a large pot.
- Season the Water: Add a teaspoon of salt and 2 tablespoons of olive oil to the boiling water. This will help prevent the pasta from sticking and give it a bit of extra flavor.
- Cook the Pasta: Add the pasta to the boiling water and cook according to the package instructions until it’s al dente. That means it should be tender but still have a slight chew to it.
- Drain and Reserve: Once the pasta is cooked, drain it, making sure to save some of the pasta water for adjusting the sauce consistency later.
Step 2: Make the Sauce
- Heat Oil and Butter: In a separate pan, heat 3-4 tablespoons of olive oil and melt 1 tablespoon of butter over medium heat.
- Sauté Garlic: Add the minced garlic to the pan and sauté for about one minute until it becomes fragrant but not browned.
- Add Pastes: Stir in the tomato paste and pepper paste, cooking for another minute until the mixture starts to deepen in color.
- Season the Sauce: Sprinkle in black pepper, cumin, and thyme according to your taste preferences. The spices will infuse the sauce with aromatic flavors.
Step 3: Combine Pasta and Sauce
- Mix Together: Add the drained pasta directly into the sauce. Toss everything together so that the pasta is evenly coated with the delicious, spiced sauce.
- Create Wells: Make small wells or indentations in the pasta using the back of a spoon. This is where you will add the eggs.
Step 4: Add the Eggs
- Crack the Eggs: Crack an egg into each well you created in the pasta. The eggs will cook directly in the heat of the pasta and sauce.
- Cook the Eggs: Allow the eggs to cook gently. You can cover the pan to help the tops of the eggs set without flipping.
Step 5: Final Touches
- Rest the Dish: Once the eggs are cooked to your liking (from runny to well-done), remove the pan from the heat and let it sit for a minute to allow the flavors to meld.
- Serve Hot: Dish out generous servings while the pasta is warm, ensuring each plate gets an egg.
Tips for Perfect Results:
- Pasta Type: Choose a pasta that holds sauce well, like penne, fusilli, or shells.
- Egg Doneness: If you prefer softer eggs, keep a close eye on them as they cook quickly.
- Adjusting Thickness: Use the reserved pasta water to thin out the sauce if it becomes too thick.
Cooking Tips:
- Pasta Water Magic: Don’t forget to reserve some pasta water. Its starchy goodness helps to thicken the sauce and make it stick to the pasta better.
- Low and Slow Eggs: Cook your eggs on a lower heat to avoid overcooking them. This ensures they remain tender and creamy.
- Fresh Spices: Use fresh or high-quality dried herbs for the best flavor. Freshly ground black pepper and cumin make a noticeable difference.
Serving Suggestion:
Serve this Sunny Pasta Skillet with a side of crusty bread or a fresh green salad to balance the richness of the eggs and pasta. For an added touch, sprinkle some grated Parmesan or pecorino cheese over the top before serving.
Nutritional Benefit:
This dish is a hearty source of protein thanks to the eggs, which also provide essential amino acids. The olive oil is rich in monounsaturated fats, which are good for heart health. Additionally, using whole grain pasta can increase the fiber content, supporting better digestion and providing a more sustained energy release.
Why I Love This Recipe:
- Versatility: It’s perfect for any meal—be it breakfast, lunch, or dinner.
- One-Pan Wonder: This recipe requires just one pan, making both cooking and cleanup a breeze.
- Customizable: It’s easy to tweak based on what you have in your pantry. Swap out spices or add different veggies for a new twist every time.
- Comfort Food: There’s something incredibly comforting about the combination of warm pasta and soft-cooked eggs.
The Sunny Pasta Skillet is more than just a meal; it’s a versatile, comforting dish that brings simplicity and nutrition together in one pan. Whether you’re cooking for a quick dinner or a leisurely brunch, this recipe offers a delightful mix of textures and flavors that can be adapted to suit any taste. It’s a testament to how a few well-chosen ingredients can create a dish that feels both gourmet and wholesomely homemade. Enjoy this skillet pasta as a delightful end to your day or a luxurious start to your morning!