African-inspired Spiced Cauliflower Pasta

Ingredients

In this African-inspired adaptation, we infuse the dish with the bold flavors of African cuisine. We replace traditional Italian herbs with a blend of aromatic spices commonly used in African cooking. The roasted cauliflower adds a unique twist to the dish, enhancing its texture and flavor. This adaptation brings together the best of both Italian and African cuisines, resulting in a truly memorable and delicious pasta dish. We alse have the original recipe for Conchiglie al cavolfiore, so you can check it out.

• 250g (8.8 oz) conchiglie pasta 250g (8.8 oz) conchiglie pasta
• 1 medium cauliflower, cut into florets 1 medium cauliflower, cut into florets
• 2 tablespoons olive oil 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon ground coriander 1 teaspoon ground coriander
• 1/2 teaspoon ground turmeric 1/2 teaspoon ground turmeric
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika 1/2 teaspoon paprika
• 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for extra heat) 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for extra heat)
• Salt and pepper, to taste Salt and pepper, to taste
• Fresh cilantro, for garnish Fresh cilantro, for garnish

Nutrition

• Calories: 350 kcal / 1465 KJ
• Fat: 10g (Saturated Fat: 1g)
• Carbohydrates: 58g (Sugar: 5g)
• Protein: 10g
• Fiber: 8g
• Salt: 1g

Preparation

1. 1.
   Preheat the oven to 200°C (400°F).
2. 2.
   In a large pot of salted boiling water, cook the conchiglie pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. 3.
   In a mixing bowl, combine the cauliflower florets, olive oil, ground cumin, ground coriander, ground turmeric, paprika, cayenne pepper (if using), salt, and pepper. Toss until the cauliflower is evenly coated with the spices.
4. 4.
   Spread the spiced cauliflower florets on a baking sheet and roast in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown and tender.
5. 5.
   In a large skillet, heat a drizzle of olive oil over medium heat. Add the cooked pasta and roasted cauliflower to the skillet, tossing gently to combine and heat through.
6. 6.
   Serve the African-inspired Spiced Cauliflower Pasta hot, garnished with fresh cilantro.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Cauliflower — Make sure to cut the cauliflower into evenly sized florets to ensure even cooking. Roasting the cauliflower brings out its natural sweetness and adds depth of flavor to the dish.

Tips & Tricks

• For an extra burst of flavor, squeeze fresh lemon juice over the pasta before serving.
• Feel free to adjust the spice levels to suit your taste preferences. Add more cayenne pepper for a spicier kick or reduce it for a milder flavor.
• If you prefer a creamier texture, you can toss the pasta with a drizzle of olive oil or a dollop of vegan butter before serving.

Serving advice

Serve the African-inspired Spiced Cauliflower Pasta as a main course, accompanied by a fresh green salad or crusty bread. It also pairs well with a side of tangy tomato chutney or a cooling cucumber raita.

Presentation advice

To enhance the presentation, sprinkle some freshly chopped cilantro over the pasta just before serving. The vibrant green color of the cilantro will add a pop of freshness and visual appeal to the dish.