Monday, 15 October 2012

Delicious Pasta / Macaroni Treat – A Quick & Tasty Meal

Delicious Pasta / Macaroni Treat – A Quick & Tasty Meal

A simple yet nutritious pasta or macaroni dish packed with fresh vegetables, spices, and flavorful sauces. It’s perfect for a quick lunch or dinner and can easily be customized with chicken or other protein for extra richness.





Ingredients

  • Pasta / Macaroni – 1 cup

  • Onion – 1 medium, finely chopped

  • Capsicum (bell pepper) – ½ medium, chopped

  • Sweet corn kernels – ½ cup

  • Tomato – 1 medium, chopped

  • Garlic – 2 cloves, finely chopped

  • Green chilies – 2, finely chopped

  • Coriander leaves – 1 tbsp, chopped (for garnish)

  • Cumin seeds – 1 tsp

  • Tomato ketchup / sauce – 1 tbsp

  • Soy sauce – ½ tbsp

  • Green peas – ½ cup, cooked

  • Carrots – ½ cup, chopped and cooked

  • French beans – ½ cup, chopped and cooked

  • Salt – to taste

  • Oil – 1 tbsp

  • Water – as required

  • Optional

    • 1 chicken stock cube for extra flavor

    • Grated cheese or chili flakes for garnish


Preparation Steps

  1. Cook the pasta

    • Bring water to a boil in a large pan. Add salt and a pinch of turmeric powder.

    • Add pasta or macaroni and cook until al dente (firm but cooked).

    • Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.

    • Drain the water and rinse the pasta with cold water to stop cooking. Set aside.

  2. Prepare the tempering

    • Heat oil in a pan over medium flame.

    • Add cumin seeds and let them splutter.

    • Add chopped garlic and green chilies, sauté until aromatic.

    • Add onions and cook for 2–3 minutes until slightly translucent.

  3. Add sauces and vegetables

    • Stir in tomato ketchup and soy sauce. Mix well.

    • Add chopped capsicum and sweet corn, sauté for a minute.

    • Add chopped tomatoes and cook for 2–3 minutes until soft.

  4. Combine pasta and vegetables

    • Add the cooked pasta, green peas, carrots, and french beans.

    • Season with salt and, if using, crumble in the chicken stock cube.

    • Mix everything thoroughly and cook for 2–3 minutes to blend the flavors.

  5. Finish and garnish

    • Turn off the heat.

    • Garnish with fresh coriander leaves.

    • Optionally, sprinkle grated cheese or chili flakes for extra flavor.


Serving Suggestions

Serve hot with garlic bread, or as a wholesome one-pot meal. You can also pair it with a fresh salad or curd for balance.


Variations & Tips

✔ Add boiled chicken pieces or paneer cubes for extra protein.
✔ Replace soy sauce with tamari or coconut aminos for a gluten-free option.
✔ Adjust green chilies for preferred spice levels.
✔ Add a squeeze of lemon juice before serving to brighten the flavors.
✔ Use whole wheat pasta for a healthier version.

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