Chef Bihi Experience the Cozy Flavors of Fall with Rigatoni, Walnut Cream, Pear & Bleu d’Adèle
Are you searching for the ultimate comfort dish that encapsulates the essence of autumn? Look no further! This delightful recipe features rigatoni, creamy walnut sauce, and the rich tang of Bleu d’Adèle cheese, perfectly complemented by the sweetness of pears. Your taste buds are in for a treat!
Recipe Information
- Servings: 4
- Preparation Time: 15 minutes
- Cooking Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Difficulty: Easy
Ingredients
- 500 grams rigatoni
- 50 cl heavy cream
- 150 grams Bleu d’Adèle cheese (blue cheese)
- 20 walnuts
- 25 grams butter
- 1 firm pear
- 1 pinch of fleur de sel (flower of salt)
- Freshly ground black pepper
Instructions
- Bring a pot of salted water to a boil for the pasta.
- Crack open the walnuts and crush them using a mortar and pestle or a small food processor (reserve a few halves for garnish).
- Cut the Bleu d’Adèle cheese into small cubes.
- Peel and dice the pear into small cubes (brunoise).
- In a pan, melt the butter over low heat and sauté the pear for 3 minutes. Set aside.
- In a wok or large pan, heat the cream and add the Bleu d’Adèle along with a pinch of salt and freshly ground pepper. Bring to a slight boil.
- Add the crushed walnuts to the cream mixture.
- Cook the pasta, but drain it 2 minutes before the time indicated on the package.
- Add the drained pasta to the sauce and cook for 1 additional minute, mixing well.
- Incorporate the sautéed pear into the dish and mix thoroughly.
- Garnish with reserved walnut halves before serving.
Notes
Feel free to use other types of cheese, but Bleu d’Adèle gives a unique flavor that complements the dish beautifully. Adjust the amount of walnuts according to your preference.
Recipe Tips
- For an added crunch, consider toasting the walnuts in a skillet before adding them to the sauce.
- You can substitute the pear with apples for a different flavor profile.
- This dish pairs wonderfully with a glass of white wine, preferably something fruity and light.
Nutritional Information
This recipe serves 4, with approximately 600 calories per serving (caloric values may vary based on ingredient brands).
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the sauce and store it in the fridge. Just reheat and combine with freshly cooked pasta before serving.
2. Is there a vegetarian option for this recipe?
Yes, simply omit the cheese if you prefer a vegan dish, or you can substitute it with a plant-based cheese.
3. Can I use different pasta shapes for this recipe?
Absolutely! While rigatoni is fantastic, any pasta shape you prefer will work well.
4. How should I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 2-3 days.
5. What can I serve with this dish?
This dish pairs well with a simple green salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.
