Chef Bihi Delicious Rigatoni with Appenzeller Cream, Grilled Leeks, and Mushrooms
Craving something creamy and fulfilling? This easy-to-follow recipe will transport you to Swiss flavors right in your kitchen. Imagine indulging in perfect pasta coated in creamy Appenzeller cheese, complemented by smoky grilled leeks and earthy mushrooms. Ready to impress yourself and your loved ones? Let’s dive in!
Recipe Information
- Servings: 4
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cooking Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Difficulty: Easy
Ingredients
- For the pasta:
- 400g rigatoni
- For the cream sauce:
- 250ml heavy cream
- 150g Appenzeller cheese, grated
- Salt, to taste
- Black pepper, to taste
- For the vegetables:
- 2 leeks, cleaned and sliced
- 200g mushrooms, sliced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon thyme
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: Boil salted water in a large pot, add the rigatoni, and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving some cooking water.
- Prepare the Vegetables: In a pan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the sliced leeks and sauté for about 4 minutes until softened.
- Add the mushrooms to the pan and continue to cook for another 5 minutes, allowing them to brown slightly. Stir in thyme, salt, and pepper, then remove from heat.
- Make the Cream Sauce: In a separate saucepan, heat the heavy cream on low heat until warm, then stir in the grated Appenzeller cheese until fully melted. Season with salt and pepper to your liking.
- Combine: In the pan with leeks and mushrooms, add the cooked rigatoni and pour the cheese sauce over. Mix well, adding some reserved pasta water for creaminess if needed.
- Serve: Plate the pasta and garnish with additional thyme if desired. Enjoy your delicious dish!
Notes
You can substitute Appenzeller cheese with Gruyère or any Swiss cheese of your choice.
Recipe Tips
For an added crunch, sprinkle some toasted pine nuts or breadcrumbs on top before serving.
Nutritional Information
Approximately 550 calories per serving.
FAQs
- Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
- Yes, simply omit any meat products and you will have a delicious vegetarian meal.
- Can I use a different type of pasta?
- Absolutely! This sauce works well with any pasta shape you prefer.
- Is Appenzeller cheese necessary?
- While Appenzeller adds unique flavor, you can substitute it with other Swiss cheeses like Emmental or Gruyère.
- Can I prepare this dish in advance?
- You can prepare the sauce and vegetables ahead of time. Just reheat before combining with the pasta.
- What can I serve with this dish?
- A fresh salad or garlic bread complements this pasta beautifully.
