Signature dishes from various culinary cultures across the world are savoured internationally. Be it sushi from Japan, tacos from Mexico, or India’s butter chicken, these delicacies are popular beyond the geographical borders of their respective countries. Another such classic delight is Italian pasta, which is a go-to for any meal and is celebrated for its versatility.
On October 25, every year, we observe World Pasta Day to celebrate pasta's existence. Available in numerous shapes like fettuccine, fusilli, and jumbo shells, it is believed that pasta has existed since 5,000 B.C. Times changed, and so did recipes, but the craze for this Italian delicacy has never decreased; rather, different countries have created their own recipes that match the taste preferences of that region. When it comes to India, as usual, we have added our own masalas to give pasta a desi touch and make it our own.
Here are seven desi recipes you can prepare at home to celebrate World Pasta Day:
Masala Pasta
This is the most popular Indian-style pasta you can find in India. Made with penne, mixed vegetables (such as capsicum, carrots, and green peas), onions, tomatoes, and spices like cumin, garam masala, and coriander powder, it is a flavourful dish that can satisfy all your cravings. You can also add cream to enhance its taste.
Indian-Style White Sauce Pasta
White sauce pasta is a classic variety of this Italian delight that is relished all over the world. Made with cream sauce, it is very easy to prepare and has a luscious flavour. Let’s give it an Indian touch with this recipe. All you have to do is combine the regular ingredients of the sauce, like butter, milk, and flour, with Indian spices like black pepper and red chilli powder. It goes well for brunch as well as lunch.
Chicken Tomato Pasta
This dish is perfect for all chicken lovers. Made with the combination of chicken, tomatoes, and penne pasta (or macaroni), this spicy desi delight is best served as dinner. It can also be paired with garlic bread for a weekend meal. The main spices used in chicken tomato pasta are dry red chillies, fennel seeds, and garam masala powder.
Pav Bhaji Flavoured Pasta
Pav bhaji is a beloved Indian delicacy that is enjoyed as a breakfast as well as a snack. But have you ever tried pav bhaji-flavoured pasta? This interesting version of pasta was created especially for the Indian palate. It is made with pasta fusilli, pav bhaji masala, tomatoes, and vegetables like green peas, cauliflower, carrots, and bell peppers. Chaat masala, lemon juice, and red chilli sauce are also used to enhance the flavour of this dish.
Chilli Capsicum Macaroni Pasta
This is a simple and quick recipe that tastes absolutely delicious. Prepared with basic ingredients, it is perfect to pack in the lunch box. Made with onion, garlic, tomato, soy sauce, red chilli flakes, and macaroni pasta, it is spicy and rich in taste. You can also serve it with a grilled vegetable salad for a comforting lunch meal.
Spicy Mac And Cheese
This Indian version of mac and cheese is a surprise spin on the iconic delicacy. It is a mouthwatering, exotic dish that is packed with the spicy flavours of Indian masalas. It is made with elbow macaroni, garam masala, garlic paste, red chilli powder, vegetable broth, cheese, and whole milk. So, if you are craving a hot, comforting, and spicy dish, then go for masala mac and cheese without thinking twice.
Pasta With Mint Sauce
If you are looking for a unique pasta recipe to surprise your family at dinner, then pudina pasta is perfect for you. Prepared with tangy mint sauce, it is spicy and delicious in taste. The sauce is prepared with mint leaves, coriander leaves, green chillies, and tamarind pulp. You can also top some cream over the dish before serving.