Penne with leek and Edam cheese
Penne with Leeks and Edamer Cheese: A Tasty Recipe for Delicious Moments
Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 20 minutes
Total: 35 minutes
Number of servings: 4
Welcome to our aroma-filled kitchen! Today we will prepare a delicious recipe of penne with leeks and Edamer cheese, a perfect combination of simple ingredients that transforms into a refined dish. These creamy pasta are ideal for a quick weeknight dinner as well as for special occasions. Let's get started!
A Short Story
Pasta is a food that has crossed generations, adapting to different cultures and cooking styles. This recipe adds a touch of freshness by incorporating leeks, a vegetable with a delicate taste that pairs perfectly with Edamer cheese. This versatile ingredient melts beautifully and adds a special flavor to the dish. So, let's discover together how to make the most flavorful penne with leeks!
Ingredients
- 400 g smooth penne pasta
- 150 g leeks
- 1 clove garlic
- 2 tablespoons butter (or margarine for a vegan option)
- 3 tablespoons flour
- 350 ml water (or vegetable broth for extra flavor)
- 1 Knorr vegetable cube (optional, if not using broth)
- 150 ml dry white wine
- 200 ml milk
- 150 g Edamer cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 100 g parmesan (optional, for serving)
Step-by-Step Technique
1. Boiling the pasta
Start by filling a large pot with water and bringing it to a boil. Once the water is boiling, add salt (about 1 tablespoon). Now is the time to add the pasta. Cook according to the package instructions, usually around 9 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. When al dente, drain well.
2. Preparing the leeks and sauce
While the pasta is boiling, take the leeks, clean them, wash them well, and chop them finely. Peel the garlic clove. In a large skillet over medium heat, melt the butter. Once melted, add the garlic and chopped leeks. Sauté for 4-5 minutes until the leeks become soft and slightly translucent.
3. Adding flour and liquids
Sprinkle the flour over the leek and garlic mixture, stirring well for 2-3 minutes to form a roux. This step is essential for achieving a creamy sauce. In a separate bowl, mix the Knorr cube with 350 ml of warm water (or use vegetable broth). Add the water mixture and white wine to the skillet, stirring constantly to prevent lumps. Let it boil for 3-4 minutes.
4. Finishing the sauce
Now, add the milk and mix well. Let the sauce simmer over medium heat for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally. The flavor should be rich and creamy. At this point, grate the Edamer cheese or cut it into thin sticks. Once the sauce is ready, turn off the heat and add the cheese, stirring until it melts completely. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Combining pasta with sauce
Add the drained pasta to the skillet and mix well, ensuring that each piece of pasta is coated with the creamy leek and cheese sauce.
6. Serving
Serve the pasta hot, optionally sprinkled with grated parmesan for an even more intense flavor. This dish pairs perfectly with a fresh green salad and a glass of dry white wine.
Practical Tips
- Ingredients: Choose quality pasta for optimal texture. Smooth penne absorbs the sauce very well, making the dish even tastier.
- Variations: If you want to experiment, you can add vegetables like spinach or zucchini, or even proteins like chicken or shrimp to turn the recipe into a hearty main dish.
- Serving: These penne with leeks can be served alongside a green salad with lemon dressing or a garlic bread for a complete meal.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use other types of cheese?
Yes, Edamer cheese can be replaced with mozzarella or cheddar cheese, depending on personal preferences.
2. How can I make the recipe healthier?
You can reduce the amount of butter or use olive oil. Additionally, substitute the cream in the sauce with Greek yogurt for a healthier option.
3. Can I prepare this recipe in advance?
Yes, you can make the sauce a day ahead and store it in the refrigerator. Cook the pasta at the time of serving to avoid sticking.
Nutritional Benefits
This recipe is rich in carbohydrates from the pasta, protein from the cheese, and nutrients from the leeks, which contain essential vitamins and minerals. Additionally, Edamer cheese adds calcium, benefiting bone health.
Personal Note
This recipe for penne with leeks and Edamer cheese reminds me of evenings spent with family, when we gathered around the table to enjoy a warm and comforting meal. It is a dish that not only satisfies hunger but also brings people together. I encourage you to add a personal touch to the recipe by seasoning it with fresh herbs like dill or basil, which will add an even more pleasant aroma.
Now that you have all the necessary information, all that’s left is to get cooking! Enjoy your meal!
Ingredients: 400 g smooth penne pasta, 150 g leek, 1 clove of garlic, 2 tablespoons of butter, 3 tablespoons of flour, 350 ml water, 1 vegetable Knorr cube, 150 ml dry white wine, 200 ml milk, 150 g Edam cheese, salt, pepper, 100 g parmesan (optional)
