Have you ever wanted a pasta that doesn’t just taste amazing but also looks like a piece of art? Most pastas are delicious but lack that visual charm to truly stand out.
Fiori pasta changes the game. Shaped like a six-petaled flower, this Italian classic is not only a feast for the taste buds but also for the eyes. Its ridged surface is perfect for holding rich sauces, making it versatile for a variety of dishes.
Whether you’re preparing a quick weeknight meal or a show-stopping dish for guests, fiori pasta adds elegance and uniqueness to your culinary creations.
Why Choose Fiori Pasta?
Fiori pasta is not only a treat for the taste buds but also a feast for the eyes. Its intricate shape makes it ideal for:
- Rich, hearty sauces like puttanesca or marinara.
- Baked pasta dishes where it holds up well during cooking.
- Salads and cold pasta dishes, adding visual appeal and texture.
Whether you’re preparing a quick dinner or hosting a special occasion, fiori pasta brings elegance and functionality to your plate.
This recipe is perfect for sneaking more vegetables into your meals while satisfying meat lovers. It’s a healthier, budget-friendly, and environmentally conscious way to enjoy pasta.
Fiori Pasta with Puttanesca Sauce
Ingredients
- 1 lb. Fiori pasta
- 2 teaspoons olive oil
- 1 cup chopped onion one small onion
- ½ lb. ground beef or substitute with turkey or chicken
- 3 cups chopped vegetables zucchini, mushrooms, or your choice
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1 28 oz. can diced or crushed tomatoes
- Salt and pepper to taste
- For Optional Béchamel Sauce:
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 1 tablespoon flour
- 1 cup milk
- Grated nutmeg to taste
- Topping:
- ¼ cup grated parmesan
- 4 oz. grated mozzarella
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to broil. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the fiori pasta until al dente. Set aside.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Sauté onions and ground beef until the meat is browned. Add garlic and cook until fragrant. Stir in chopped vegetables and sauté until slightly softened.
- Add canned tomatoes, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Cover and simmer for 20 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- If using Béchamel sauce, melt butter in a small saucepan. Add flour and whisk until smooth. Gradually add milk, whisking constantly until the sauce thickens. Season with salt, pepper, and nutmeg.
- Combine the cooked pasta and vegetable-meat sauce in a large mixing bowl. Stir in grated parmesan.
- Transfer the mixture to a greased baking dish. Top with a layer of Béchamel sauce (optional) and grated mozzarella.
- Broil for 2-3 minutes until the cheese is melted and golden brown. Serve hot.
- Tip: Freeze mozzarella for 30 minutes before grating to make it easier to handle.
Tips for Cooking Fiori Pasta
- Cook Until Al Dente: Fiori pasta’s shape is best appreciated when it’s firm to the bite.
- Use Rich Sauces: The ridges on fiori pasta are perfect for holding sauces, so don’t skimp on flavor.
- Experiment with Ingredients: Pair it with seasonal vegetables, hearty proteins, or creamy sauces for endless possibilities.
Conclusion
Fiori pasta is more than just a meal; it’s an experience. Its beautiful design and versatility make it a great choice for everything from quick weeknight dinners to show-stopping dishes for guests. With recipes like Puttanesca Fiori, you can explore the endless possibilities of this unique pasta. So, grab a bag of fiori pasta, and let your culinary creativity bloom!