Which ingredients go well with fresh pasta?

Fresh pasta is one of those delicious culinary experiences that simply never disappoints. The texture, the flavor, the freshness; it's like having a piece of Italy on your plate. But what are the best ingredients to make that fresh pasta come alive even more? Let's discover together how to create the perfect combination with a variety of ingredients that will surprise your taste buds.

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Fresh herbs

You probably know that feeling: you've just cooked your pasta, and something's missing. The aroma of fresh herbs can be that missing piece. Basil, parsley, and oregano are among the classics that pair perfectly with fresh pasta. Basil adds a sweet, aromatic note. Parsley, on the other hand, provides a fresh touch, and oregano adds that authentic Italian aroma. Try a blend of these herbs for an explosion of flavor.

And definitely don't use dried varieties if you have these fresh options on hand. Fresh herbs really make a difference, offering more aroma and intense flavor.

Olive oil

Fresh pasta and olive oil are like Bonnie and Clyde: inseparable and irresistible. A good extra virgin olive oil can be enough to flavor your pasta. Try drizzling the oil over your pasta. You'll notice that the oil not only saturates the pasta with rich flavor but also creates a silky texture.

You might be wondering, does the olive oil have to be top-quality? Not necessarily, but a good extra virgin variety will make all the difference. Nothing beats that slightly fruity, sometimes peppery flavor that brings this "liquid gold" to life.

Cheeses

Which cheese should you choose? Parmesan is, of course, the classic. It adds a salty and nutty flavor that pairs perfectly with pasta. If you want something richer and creamier, try adding a generous dollop of ricotta. Ricotta pearls beautifully throughout the pasta, making every bite feel soft and creamy.

And of course, pecorino cheese. Pecorino has a stronger and more intense flavor than Parmesan, making it a great choice if you're looking for something a little more daring. Experiment and discover which cheese combination completes your pasta dream.

Vegetables

Vegetables not only bring color and health benefits, but they also add interesting textures to your pasta dish. Try spinach, tomatoes, or artichokes. Spinach has a mild flavor that pairs beautifully with both cheese and olive oil. Tomatoes add a spicy, fresh kick, while artichokes offer a slightly more complex, earthy flavor.

And add some salt and pepper! Yes, a simple addition like black pepper and sea salt can make the difference between good and great.

Fish and seafood

Fish and seafood complement pasta beautifully. Shrimp are a popular choice for their sweet, delicate flavor and firm texture. They pair perfectly with a light lemon and olive oil sauce. For something a little more daring, why not try anchovies or squid? Their robust flavors create a bold contrast with the tenderness of the pasta.

And don't forget the same ingredients once you've tasted them! They not only add variety but also unexpected depth to your meal.

Meat and poultry

Want to make your pasta dish a bit more filling? Consider pancetta, a type of Italian bacon that adds a deliciously savory touch. Or choose chicken ; it's tender and versatile, making it perfect for adding all sorts of herbs and spices.

So, if you want something filling after a long day without sacrificing flavor, meat and poultry are the way to go.

Nuts and seeds

You might not have considered it yet, but nuts and seeds can provide a fantastic contrast in your pasta dish. Walnuts, pine nuts, and even almonds not only add a delicious crunchy texture but also enhance your dish with their unique flavors. Add them as a finishing touch for an extra dimension to your flavor palette.

So, which ingredients will you try with your fresh pasta next time?