Get ready to transform your ordinary pasta dinner into an extraordinary culinary adventure with these Spicy Zhoug Brussels Sprouts Pasta! Imagine crispy, caramelized Brussels sprouts dancing with vibrant zhoug sauce, creating a flavor explosion that will make your taste buds sing. This Middle Eastern-inspired dish isn't just a meal—it's a gastronomic journey that combines the earthy crunch of roasted vegetables, the bold heat of zhoug, and the comforting embrace of perfectly cooked pasta.
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 25 mins
Total Time: 40 mins
Cuisine: Middle Eastern
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 12 oz pasta of choice
- 2 cups Brussels sprouts halved
- 1/4 cup zhoug sauce
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/4 cup pine nuts toasted
- Fresh cilantro for garnish
Instructions
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Prepare pasta according to package instructions until al dente, reserving 1/2 cup of pasta water before draining.
- While pasta is cooking, trim and halve the Brussels sprouts, ensuring they are clean and uniform in size for even roasting.
- Preheat the oven to 425°F (218°C). Toss Brussels sprouts with olive oil, garlic powder, salt, and pepper on a large baking sheet, ensuring they are spread in a single layer.
- Roast Brussels sprouts in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, turning halfway through, until they are crispy and caramelized with golden brown edges.
- In a small dry skillet, toast pine nuts over medium heat, stirring constantly until they are golden brown and fragrant, being careful not to burn them. Remove from heat and set aside.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the drained pasta, roasted Brussels sprouts, zhoug sauce, and a splash of reserved pasta water. Toss gently to ensure even coating.
- Plate the pasta and garnish with toasted pine nuts and fresh chopped cilantro. Serve immediately while warm.
Tips
- Brussels Sprout Perfection: For maximum caramelization, ensure sprouts are completely dry before roasting and spread them in a single layer on the baking sheet.
- Zhoug Sauce Tip: If you can't find pre-made zhoug sauce, you can easily make your own or substitute with a spicy green herb sauce.
- Pasta Water Magic: Always reserve some pasta water before draining—its starchy goodness helps create a silky, clingy sauce when mixed with zhoug.
- Toasting Nuts: Watch pine nuts carefully while toasting; they can burn quickly. Constant stirring is key to achieving that perfect golden color.
- Make It Your Own: Feel free to experiment with different pasta shapes or swap pine nuts with almonds for a personalized touch.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 390kcal
Carbohydrates: g
Protein: g
Fat: g
Saturated Fat: 2g
Cholesterol: 0mg
