Whole wheat tagliatelle with chicken and cream
Whole Wheat Tagliatelle with Chicken and Cream: A Recipe Full of Flavor and Texture
Who doesn’t love a dish that combines the velvety texture of fresh pasta with a creamy and aromatic sauce? The recipe for whole wheat tagliatelle with chicken and cream is not only a delicious choice for a family dinner but also a perfect opportunity to impress guests. This dish is simple to prepare, yet the final result will seem worthy of a luxury restaurant. Let’s discover together the necessary steps to achieve a perfect result!
Preparation time: 60 minutes
Baking time: 20 minutes
Total time: 80 minutes
Number of servings: 4
Ingredients
For the tagliatelle:
- 1 fresh egg
- 150 g whole wheat flour
- 3 tablespoons warm water
For the sauce:
- 1 chicken breast (approximately 400 g)
- 1 medium onion
- 3 cloves of garlic
- 300 g cream (preferably cooking cream, with a higher fat content for a richer texture)
- 100 g peas (fresh or frozen)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2-3 tablespoons olive oil
For the decorative basket:
- Approximately 300 g whole wheat bread dough (homemade or store-bought)
Brief History
Tagliatelle are a type of traditional pasta, with varying lengths and widths. Their origin is lost in the mists of time, but it is certain that they have become popular in Mediterranean cuisine. This type of pasta easily absorbs sauces, making them ideal for rich and creamy dishes, such as those with meat or vegetables. Combining with chicken and cream is a classic choice, bringing a perfect balance between proteins and carbohydrates.
Preparing the Basket
1. The Dough: Start by preparing the dough for the basket. It is essential that it is well-proofed and elastic. Use whole wheat bread dough, which will add a healthy note and a crispy texture.
2. Shaping: Roll out the dough on a well-floured surface and cut it into round shapes. Use a muffin tin or a tart mold, greased with oil, to create the baskets. Make sure the edges are raised and artistically shaped for a pleasant appearance.
3. Baking: Preheat the oven to 180°C and bake the baskets for 15-20 minutes or until they become golden and crispy.
Preparing the Tagliatelle
1. Pasta Dough: In a bowl, mix the egg with the whole wheat flour and a pinch of salt. Gradually add warm water until you obtain a compact and firm dough. It is important that the dough is well-kneaded to ensure elasticity.
2. Resting: Let the dough rest for 10 minutes, covered with a damp towel. This step will allow the gluten to relax, making it easier to roll out.
3. Rolling and Cutting: On a floured surface, roll out the dough into a thin sheet. Roll the sheet and cut it into strips to obtain the tagliatelle. Spread them on the table and let them dry slightly.
Preparing the Sauce
1. Sautéing the Onion and Garlic: In a heated skillet with olive oil, add the chopped onion and garlic. Sauté over medium heat until the onion becomes translucent.
2. The Chicken: Cut the chicken breast into cubes and add it to the skillet. Sauté until it turns white, then pour in a glass of water to cover it. Simmer over low heat, covered, to steam it.
3. Finishing the Sauce: When the liquid has reduced by half, season with salt and pepper. Add the cream, mixing well, and bring it back to a boil. Finally, add the peas and let it simmer for a few minutes.
Assembling the Dish
1. Boiling the Pasta: In a pot of salted water, boil the tagliatelle for 3-5 minutes or until they rise to the surface. They will not require a long cooking time as they are fresh.
2. Combining: Drain the pasta and add it to the skillet with the sauce. Mix well so that each strip of pasta is coated with the creamy sauce.
Serving
Serve the tagliatelle hot in the crispy bread baskets, garnished with a little chopped fresh parsley for a touch of color. This dish is perfect for a special dinner or to impress friends at a party.
Pairing Suggestions
To complement this delicious dinner, you can opt for a glass of dry white wine or a refreshing lemonade with mint. A simple green salad with lemon dressing will add a pleasant contrast and balance the richness of the sauce.
Nutritional Benefits
This dish is not only delicious but also healthy. Whole wheat flour provides essential fiber for digestion, while chicken breast is an excellent source of lean protein. Peas add vitamins and minerals, contributing to a nutritionally balanced dish.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use other types of meat? Yes, you can replace the chicken breast with turkey, pork, or even tofu for a vegetarian option.
2. How can I store the pasta? It is recommended to consume them fresh, but you can store the sauce separately in the refrigerator for 2-3 days.
3. Can I freeze the dish? Although fresh pasta does not freeze very well, the sauce can be frozen and used later with other pasta.
Variations and Tips
To add a touch of flavor, you can try adding spices like basil or oregano to the sauce. A wonderful idea is to sprinkle grated parmesan on top before serving for an extra flavor and an appetizing appearance.
The recipe for whole wheat tagliatelle with chicken and cream is more than just a simple dish; it is a culinary experience that blends flavors, textures, and the joy of cooking. Try it and let yourself be carried away by the flavor of each bite!
Ingredients: For tagliatelle: 1 egg, 150 g whole wheat flour, 3 tablespoons warm water. For the sauce: 1 chicken breast, 1 onion, 3 cloves of garlic, 300 g sour cream, 100 g peas, salt and pepper. For the decorative basket: ~300 g whole grain bread dough.
