Ingredients:
– 250g half-sized paccheri pasta
– 400g mussels
– 1 onion, diced
– 1 garlic clove, minced
– 1 tomato, diced
– 1 tsp curry powder
– ½ tsp paprika powder
– 1 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup bread crumbs
– 2 tbsp butter, melted
– 1 tbsp parsley, chopped
Directions:
1. Clean the mussels by scrubbing them under cold running water and removing their beards, if any.
2. Cook the pasta in boiling salted water until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the onion and garlic and sauté until the onion is translucent, about 2-3 minutes.
4. Add the diced tomato, curry powder, paprika powder, salt, and pepper. Sauté for another 5 minutes or until the tomato is soft and fragrant.
5. Add the ed mussels to the skillet and stir to coat them with the tomato and spices. Cover the skillet and let the mussels cook for 5-10 minutes or until all the mussels are open. Discard any mussels that do not open.
6. Preheat the oven to 200°C. Butter a medium-sized baking dish and sprinkle half of the bread crumbs at the bottom.
7. Add the cooked pasta to the skillet with the mussels and stir to combine. Pour the pasta and mussel mixture into the baking dish.
8. Mix the remaining bread crumbs with the melted butter and chopped parsley. Sprinkle the bread crumb mixture over the pasta and mussels.
9. Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes or until the bread crumb crust is golden brown and crispy.
This half-sized paccheri pasta dish is perfect for a comforting and hearty dinner. The curry and paprika powder add a touch of spice and warmth to the dish, while the mussels bring a seafood flavor. The crispy bread crumb crust on top adds an extra layer of texture and flavor to the dish.
This recipe can be adapted by using different types of seafood such as shrimp or clams, or by using different spices and herbs. The half-sized paccheri pasta can also be substituted with other types of pasta, such as rigatoni or ziti. This dish can be paired with a refreshing green salad or a glass of white wine for a complete meal.
In conclusion, this half-sized paccheri pasta dish with curry, mussels, and a crispy crust is a perfect combination of flavors and textures. It is easy to make and is perfect for a cozy dinner at home or for entertaining guests. Try this recipe and impress your taste buds and your guests. Bon appétit!