This recipe utilizes an automatic pasta machine to create delicious and healthy pasta using alternative flours, perfect for those looking to reduce their carbohydrate intake and support heart health.
**Cuisine Type:** International (Adaptable)
**Dietary Preferences:** Gluten-Free, GMO-Free, Natural Sugar, Low-Carb, Low-Fat
**Yields:** Approximately 4 servings
**Prep Time:** 15 minutes
**Cook Time:** 5-7 minutes
**Equipment:** Automatic Pasta Machine, Measuring cups and spoons, Kitchen scale (optional), Large pot, Colander
**Ingredients:**
* **Flour Blend (Dry Ingredients):**
* 1 cup Almond Flour (finely ground)
* ½ cup Oat Fiber (not oat flour)
* ¼ cup Flaxseed Meal (ground flax seeds)
* 2 tablespoons Psyllium Husk Powder (for binding)
* 1 teaspoon Xanthan Gum (for elasticity, optional but recommended)
* ½ teaspoon Sea Salt
* ¼ teaspoon Garlic Powder (optional, for flavor)
* **Wet Ingredients:**
* 2 large Eggs (omega-3 enriched preferred)
* 2 tablespoons Olive Oil (extra virgin)
* 2-4 tablespoons Water (filtered, adjust as needed)
**Instructions:**
**1. Prepare the Dry Ingredients:**
* In a medium-sized bowl, whisk together the almond flour, oat fiber, flaxseed meal, psyllium husk powder, xanthan gum (if using), sea salt, and garlic powder (if using). Ensure all ingredients are evenly distributed.
**2. Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients:**
* In a separate bowl, whisk together the eggs and olive oil.
* Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, mixing with a fork until a crumbly dough forms.
**3. Adjust Dough Consistency:**
* Add water, one tablespoon at a time, until the dough starts to come together into a ball. The dough should be slightly moist but not sticky. *Note: The amount of water needed may vary depending on the humidity and the specific flours used.*
* If using a kitchen scale, the dough should weigh approximately 350-400 grams.
**4. Prepare the Automatic Pasta Machine:**
* Follow the manufacturer's instructions for your specific automatic pasta machine.
* Typically, you'll need to select the desired pasta shape (e.g., spaghetti, fettuccine, penne).
**5. Process the Dough:**
* Cut the dough into smaller, manageable pieces (about 1-2 inches in size).
* Feed the dough pieces into the pasta machine according to the machine's instructions. The machine will mix the dough further and extrude it into the desired pasta shape.
* As the pasta is extruded, gently guide it away from the machine to prevent clumping. You can lightly dust the pasta with almond flour to prevent sticking.
**6. Cook the Pasta:**
* Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil.
* Add the fresh pasta to the boiling water.
* Cook for 5-7 minutes, or until the pasta is al dente (slightly firm to the bite). *Note: Fresh pasta cooks much faster than dried pasta, so keep a close eye on it.*
**7. Drain and Serve:**
* Immediately drain the pasta in a colander.
* Serve immediately with your favorite healthy sauce and toppings.
**Cooking Times:**
* **Dough Preparation:** 10 minutes
* **Pasta Machine Processing:** 5 minutes
* **Cooking Pasta:** 5-7 minutes
**Serving Suggestions:**
* **Heart-Healthy Marinara Sauce:** Toss the pasta with a homemade marinara sauce made with fresh tomatoes, garlic, basil, and a touch of olive oil.
* **Pesto with Walnuts:** Combine fresh basil, walnuts, garlic, Parmesan cheese (optional, use sparingly), and olive oil in a food processor for a vibrant and heart-healthy pesto.
* **Lemon-Garlic Shrimp:** Sauté shrimp with garlic, lemon juice, olive oil, and a sprinkle of red pepper flakes. Toss with the pasta for a light and flavorful dish.
* **Vegetable Primavera:** Sauté a variety of colorful vegetables like broccoli, carrots, zucchini, and bell peppers in olive oil. Toss with the pasta and a light vinaigrette.
* **Protein Boost:** Add grilled chicken, fish, or tofu to your pasta dish for a complete and balanced meal.
**Tips and Notes:**
* **Dough Consistency is Key:** The dough should be moist enough to extrude properly but not so wet that it becomes sticky. Adjust the water amount carefully.
* **Storage:** Freshly made pasta can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Dust lightly with almond flour to prevent sticking. You can also freeze the pasta for longer storage. Spread the pasta in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Then, transfer to a freezer bag. Cook directly from frozen, adding a minute or two to the cooking time.
* **Experiment with Flavors:** Feel free to add other herbs and spices to the dough, such as Italian seasoning, rosemary, or chili flakes.
* **Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate, without sauce):** Calories: 250-300, Carbohydrates: 20-25g, Fiber: 10-15g, Protein: 15-20g, Fat: 15-20g *Note: Nutritional information will vary depending on the specific ingredients used.*
* **For a vegan option:** Substitute the eggs with flax eggs (1 tablespoon flaxseed meal mixed with 3 tablespoons water, let sit for 5 minutes to thicken).
Enjoy your delicious and healthy homemade pasta!
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