We're about to dive into a delightfully simple dish filled with fresh flavors and vibrant colors. Our fettuccine with cherry tomatoes and watercress is a beautifully balanced dish; featuring the sweetness of the cherry tomatoes, the peppery punch of the watercress and the rich, comforting appeal of the fettuccine.
Most of the ingredients in this recipe are quite common and should be readily available in your local supermarket. However, watercress might not be a regular in your fridge. It's a peppery, slightly bitter green that adds a wonderful complexity to a variety of dishes. You can usually find it in the produce section of your supermarket.
Ingredients for Fettuccine with Cherry Tomatoes and Watercress
Cherry tomatoes: These small, sweet tomatoes add a burst of flavor and beautiful color to the dish.
Garlic: Used to infuse the olive oil and tomatoes with flavor.
Olive oil: It's used to gently cook the garlic and tomatoes, and also adds richness to the pasta.
Salt: Enhances the flavors of the other ingredients.
Black pepper: Adds a little heat and complexity to the dish.
Basil leaves: These bring a fragrant, slightly sweet flavor to the dish.
Fettuccine: This type of pasta is perfect for holding onto the sauce and tomatoes.
Watercress: This peppery green adds a unique flavor profile and plenty of nutritious benefits.
One reader, Faulkner Archuleta says:
This fettuccine recipe is a game-changer! The burst of flavors from the cherry tomatoes and the freshness of the watercress make it a delightful dish. The simplicity of the ingredients and the ease of preparation make it a go-to recipe for a quick and delicious meal. Highly recommended!
Techniques Required for Making Fettuccine with Cherry Tomatoes and Watercress
How to prepare the tomato mixture: Toss the cherry tomatoes with minced garlic, olive oil, salt, pepper, and thinly sliced basil leaves in a large glass or stainless-steel bowl. Set the mixture aside to marinate.
How to cook the fettuccine: In a large pot of boiling, salted water, cook the fettuccine until it is just done, which should take about 12 minutes.
How to toss the pasta with the tomato mixture and watercress: After draining the fettuccine, return it to the hot pan and toss it with the prepared tomato mixture and the watercress, adding the remaining salt.
How To Make Fettuccine with Cherry Tomatoes and Watercress
Toss an easy and refreshing pasta dish with this fettuccine recipe. It’s simply tossed with seasoned tomatoes and greens for a 20-minute dish!
Serves:
Ingredients
- 1½lbcherry tomatoes
- 2clovesgarlic
- 6tbspolive oil
- ¾tspsalt
- ¼tspfresh-ground black pepper
- ½cupthin-sliced basil leaves,or chopped fresh parsley
- ¾lbfettuccine
- 10ozwatercress,(2 bunches)
Instructions
-
In a large glass or stainless-steel bowl, toss the tomatoes with the garlic, oil, ½ teaspoon of salt, pepper, and basil. Set the mixture aside.
-
In a large pot of boiling, salted water, cook the fettuccine for about 12 minutes until just done.
-
Drain, return to the hot pan, and toss with the tomato mixture, watercress, and the remaining ¼ teaspoon salt.
Nutrition
- Calories: 536.33kcal
- Fat: 21.98g
- Saturated Fat: 3.10g
- Monounsaturated Fat: 14.98g
- Polyunsaturated Fat: 2.79g
- Carbohydrates: 71.73g
- Fiber: 5.24g
- Sugar: 6.91g
- Protein: 14.43g
- Sodium: 479.51mg
- Calcium: 129.22mg
- Potassium: 844.24mg
- Iron: 1.96mg
- Vitamin A: 192.81µg
- Vitamin C: 54.79mg
Helpful Technique for Preparing Fettuccine with Cherry Tomatoes and Watercress
When tossing the fettuccine with the tomato mixture and watercress, do so gently to avoid breaking the pasta. Also, it's best to add the watercress at the very end to maintain its crisp texture and vibrant color. Overmixing can cause the watercress to wilt and lose its peppery bite.
Time-Saving Tips for Preparing This Pasta Dish
Prep ahead: Chop vegetables and measure out ingredients in advance to streamline the cooking process.
One-pot wonders: Opt for recipes that allow you to cook everything in a single pot or pan to minimize cleanup time.
Batch cooking: Prepare larger quantities of certain ingredients and freeze them for future use, saving time on meal prep later.
Organized workspace: Keep your kitchen tidy and organized to easily locate ingredients and utensils while cooking.
Efficient tools: Invest in high-quality kitchen tools and appliances to expedite the cooking process and save time.
Substitute Ingredients For Fettuccine with Cherry Tomatoes and Watercress Recipe
fettuccine - Substitute with tagliatelle: Tagliatelle is a wider pasta that can be used as a substitute for fettuccine, providing a similar texture and flavor.
cherry tomatoes - Substitute with grape tomatoes: Grape tomatoes are smaller and sweeter than cherry tomatoes, making them a suitable substitute in this recipe.
watercress - Substitute with arugula: Arugula has a peppery flavor similar to watercress and can be used as a substitute in this recipe.
Presenting Fettuccine with Cherry Tomatoes and Watercress
Elevate the plating: When presenting the fettuccine with cherry tomatoes and watercress, focus on creating an elegant and visually appealing presentation. Use a large, flat plate to showcase the vibrant colors and textures of the dish. Arrange the fettuccine neatly in the center and delicately place the cherry tomatoes and watercress on top, ensuring each element is showcased beautifully.
Garnish with edible flowers: Add a touch of sophistication to the dish by garnishing with edible flowers such as nasturtiums or pansies. These delicate blooms will not only enhance the visual appeal but also add a subtle floral note to the overall presentation.
Incorporate artistic drizzling: Elevate the plating by incorporating artistic drizzling of olive oil around the perimeter of the plate. This not only adds a touch of finesse but also enhances the flavors and textures of the dish.
Use high-quality serving utensils: When presenting the fettuccine, opt for high-quality serving utensils such as polished stainless-steel tongs or a sleek pasta server. The use of premium utensils adds a professional touch to the presentation.
Emphasize symmetry and balance: Arrange the cherry tomatoes and watercress in a symmetrical and balanced manner, ensuring that each component is thoughtfully placed to create a visually striking presentation.
Highlight the vibrant colors: Emphasize the vibrant colors of the cherry tomatoes and watercress by ensuring they are prominently displayed on the plate. The visual appeal of the dish is crucial in creating a lasting impression.
Consider the negative space: Pay attention to the negative space on the plate, allowing the dish to breathe and ensuring that the presentation is not overcrowded. This mindful use of space adds a sense of refinement to the overall plating.
Opt for minimalist elegance: Embrace a minimalist approach to plating, focusing on clean lines and understated elegance. Let the natural beauty of the ingredients take center stage, creating a visually stunning yet uncomplicated presentation.
Essential Tools for Making This Pasta Recipe
Cutting board: A flat surface used for cutting, slicing, and chopping ingredients.
Chef's knife: A versatile, all-purpose knife used for a variety of kitchen tasks such as chopping, slicing, and dicing.
Large pot: Used for boiling pasta or other ingredients.
Colander: A bowl-shaped kitchen utensil with perforated holes used for draining foods such as pasta or washing vegetables.
Tongs: Used for gripping and lifting hot items, such as pasta or vegetables, while cooking.
Large bowl: Used for mixing and tossing ingredients.
Garlic press: A tool used to crush and mince garlic cloves.
Grater: Used to grate cheese or zest citrus fruits.
Saucepan: Used for cooking the tomato and garlic mixture.
Pasta fork or tongs: Used for serving and tossing pasta.
Wine glass: Used for serving wine to accompany the dish.
Storing and Freezing Fettuccine with Cherry Tomatoes and Watercress
- If you have any leftovers, store the fettuccine with cherry tomatoes and watercress in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days.
- To maintain the freshness and texture of the watercress, store it separately from the pasta in a plastic bag or container lined with damp paper towels. This will help prevent the watercress from wilting too quickly.
- When reheating the leftovers, add a splash of olive oil or a bit of water to help loosen the pasta and prevent it from drying out. Reheat in a microwave or on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through.
- If you want to freeze the leftovers, it's best to freeze the fettuccine and cherry tomato mixture separately from the watercress. Allow the pasta and tomatoes to cool completely before transferring them to a freezer-safe container or resealable plastic bag. Remove as much air as possible before sealing to prevent freezer burn.
- When ready to eat the frozen leftovers, thaw the fettuccine and cherry tomato mixture in the refrigerator overnight. Reheat the thawed pasta in a microwave or on the stovetop, adding a bit of olive oil or water as needed. Add fresh watercress just before serving for the best texture and flavor.
How To Reheat Leftover Fettuccine
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the leftover fettuccine in an oven-safe dish and cover it with aluminum foil. Heat the pasta in the oven for about 10-15 minutes, or until it's heated through. This method helps to prevent the pasta from drying out and ensures even heating.
For a quicker reheating option, use your microwave. Place the leftover fettuccine with cherry tomatoes and watercress in a microwave-safe dish and add a splash of water or olive oil to help keep the pasta moist. Cover the dish with a microwave-safe lid or plastic wrap (leaving a small vent for steam to escape). Heat the pasta on high power for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through, or until it's heated to your liking.
If you prefer a slightly crispy texture, reheat the leftover fettuccine in a skillet. Add a small amount of olive oil or butter to the pan and heat it over medium heat. Add the pasta and toss it gently until it's heated through and slightly crispy on the edges. This method works best for smaller portions of leftover pasta.
To maintain the freshness of the cherry tomatoes and watercress, reheat them separately from the fettuccine. In a small saucepan, heat the cherry tomatoes and their juices over low heat until they're just warmed through. Toss the watercress with the warm pasta and cherry tomatoes just before serving to prevent it from wilting too much.
If the leftover pasta seems dry after reheating, add a small amount of reserved pasta water, olive oil, or butter to help bring back some moisture and create a silky sauce that coats the fettuccine. Toss the pasta gently to combine the ingredients and serve it immediately.
Interesting Trivia About Fettuccine with Cherry Tomatoes and Watercress
The fettuccine with cherry tomatoes and watercress recipe is a delightful combination of flavors and textures. It's a perfect dish for a light and refreshing meal. The cherry tomatoes add a burst of sweetness, while the watercress brings a peppery bite to the dish. This recipe is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients, making it a healthy choice. It's a great way to incorporate more greens into your diet. Plus, it's a quick and easy recipe to whip up for a weeknight dinner. Enjoy this flavorful pasta dish with a glass of crisp, light red wine for a perfect dining experience.
Is Making This Pasta Recipe at Home Cost-Effective?
This fettuccine with cherry tomatoes and watercress recipe is quite cost-effective for a household. The ingredients are simple and easily accessible, making it budget-friendly. The cherry tomatoes and watercress provide essential nutrients, and the recipe doesn't require expensive or rare items. With an overall verdict of 8, this dish offers a delightful combination of flavors and textures. The approximate cost for a household of 4 people is around $15, making it an affordable and satisfying meal option.
Is This Pasta Dish Healthy or Unhealthy?
The fettuccine with cherry tomatoes and watercress recipe is a relatively healthy dish, thanks to its use of fresh ingredients like cherry tomatoes, garlic, basil, and watercress. These vegetables provide a good source of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. The olive oil used in the recipe is also a healthy fat that can help reduce inflammation and improve heart health. However, the recipe does have some areas where it could be improved to make it even healthier.
To make this recipe even more nutritious, consider the following suggestions:
- Use whole wheat fettuccine instead of regular pasta to increase the fiber content and provide more complex carbohydrates
- Reduce the amount of olive oil used in the recipe to lower the overall calorie and fat content
- Add more vegetables to the dish, such as sautéed spinach, zucchini, or bell peppers, to increase the nutrient density and fiber content
- Use a low-sodium salt substitute or reduce the amount of salt used in the recipe to help lower the sodium content
- Include a lean protein source, such as grilled chicken or shrimp, to make the dish more balanced and satisfying
- Garnish with a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese for added flavor and a boost of calcium
Editor's Opinion on Fettuccine with Cherry Tomatoes and Watercress
This fettuccine with cherry tomatoes and watercress recipe is a delightful combination of fresh and vibrant flavors. The sweet burst of cherry tomatoes, aromatic garlic, and peppery watercress create a harmonious blend that elevates the dish. The use of thin-sliced basil adds a refreshing herbal note, while the fettuccine provides a comforting base. The wine recommendation complements the dish perfectly, enhancing the overall dining experience. It's a simple yet elegant recipe that celebrates the beauty of seasonal ingredients.
Enhance Your Fettuccine with Cherry Tomatoes and Watercress Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:
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Appetizer and Dessert Pairings for Fettuccine with Cherry Tomatoes and Watercress
Why trust this Fettuccine with Cherry Tomatoes and Watercress Recipe:
This recipe guarantees a burst of freshness with cherry tomatoes and watercress. The combination of garlic, olive oil, and basil infuses rich flavors. The use of fettuccine provides a comforting and satisfying base. The simplicity of the ingredients ensures a quick and easy preparation. Trust the vibrant colors and the aromatic blend of herbs to elevate your dining experience.
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