Easy Recipe for Light Pizzoccheri First Courses

Pizzoccheri is a traditional Italian dish originating from the Alpine region of Lombardy. It is a hearty pasta dish typically made with buckwheat noodles, potatoes, cabbage, and cheese. While it is traditionally served as a comfort food during the cold winter months, this recipe provides a lighter version that is perfect for enjoying year-round.

To make this easy and light Pizzoccheri recipe, you will need the following ingredients:
– 200g buckwheat noodles
– 2 medium potatoes, peeled and cubed
– 200g cabbage, shredded
– 1 garlic clove, minced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 100g fontina cheese, grated
– Salt and pepper to taste

Start by boiling a large pot of water and cook the buckwheat noodles according to package instructions. Once cooked, drain and set aside.

In the same pot, add the cubed potatoes and cook until they are tender. This may take around 10-15 minutes. Once they are cooked, remove from the water and set aside.

Using the same pot again, blanch the shredded cabbage for a couple of minutes until it becomes slightly tender. Drain and set aside.

In a separate frying pan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté until it becomes fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic as it can easily turn bitter.

Now, it’s time to bring all the ingredients together. Add the cooked buckwheat noodles, potatoes, and cabbage to the frying pan with the sautéed garlic. Give them a gentle toss, ensuring that all the ingredients are evenly distributed.

To add a light and creamy touch to the dish, sprinkle the grated fontina cheese over the mixture and stir gently until the cheese melts. The fontina cheese adds a subtle nutty flavor that complements the earthiness of the buckwheat noodles perfectly.

Season the dish with salt and pepper to taste. Since the fontina cheese can be slightly salty, it’s recommended to taste before adding additional salt.

Once everything is well combined and the cheese has melted, transfer the light Pizzoccheri to a serving dish. Garnish with a sprinkling of grated fontina cheese if desired, and serve immediately.

This light Pizzoccheri recipe presents a healthier alternative to the traditional dish, making it suitable for those watching their calorie intake. By using buckwheat noodles and reducing the amount of cheese and oil in the recipe, you can enjoy this culinary delight without any guilt.

Pizzoccheri is a versatile dish that can be easily customized to suit your taste. Feel free to add or substitute other vegetables like carrots or zucchini to enhance the nutritional value of the meal. Additionally, you can experiment with different types of cheese such as Parmesan or Gruyère to create a unique flavor profile.

Whether you are looking for a light lunch or a satisfying dinner, this easy recipe for light Pizzoccheri first courses is sure to impress. With its combination of wholesome ingredients and delectable flavors, it is a dish that adds a touch of Italian comfort to any occasion.