Recipe {Fresh Fig + Toasted Almond Pasta}

Monday, June 22, 2015

There are few dishes more satisfying than a really delicious pasta. A dish comprised of vibrant ingredients and depth of flavor that delivers nourishing satisfaction. Whether it is an eight-hour bolognese or a decadent and cheesy sauce I'm always drawn to pastas.

While I don't make pasta that often at home, when I do I go all out! And all out doesn't necessarily mean an all day production. This Fresh Fig + Toasted Almond Pasta only takes 15 minutes!! Yet tastes special enough to serve at a dinner party or to make for an at-home date night. The four bachelors that read this blog should definitely bring this into their dating arsenal. Heck, we should all bring this into our playbooks. 

By toasting the almonds, browning the butter and cooking the figs a rich flavor profile is built in a short amount of time. This dish has a nutty and creamy warmth to it while not being overly heavy or rich. The mascarpone is the secret ingredient that allows this to be such a quick dish. The key to pulling off the timing is chopping and layering the ingredients while the pasta cooks.

Fresh Fig + Toasted Almond Pasta

1/2 lb Fettuccine (Or any substantial, long pasta)

1/3 Slivered Almonds

3 tbs Unsalted Butter

8oz Fresh Mission Figs (About 8 small figs)

4 oz Fresh Mozzarella

1/4 cup Mascarpone

15-20 leaves Fresh Basil

Salt + Pepper

1. Bring a large pot of water to a rolling boil. Add pasta. Wash and quarter the figs. Cube the mozzarella. Wash and roughly chop the basil.

2. Heat a large, heavy bottomed pan over medium heat. Add the almonds and shake the pan consistently. Avoid burning the almonds but allow them to brown. After 1-2 minutes add the butter. Let the butter melt and begin to brown. Add the figs and continue to shake the pan.

3. Once the pasta is al dente transfer it directly to the pan using tongs. Incorporate the fig mixture and pasta together. Evenly spread the mozzarella over the dish and scoop the mascarpone on top. Let sit for one minute. 

4. Add basil and incorporate the entire dish. Salt and pepper to taste. Serve immediately.