If you’re craving a delicious twist to your regular pasta night, Moroccan Spiced Pasta is exactly what you need. This dish blends the hearty comfort of pasta with the bold, aromatic spices of Moroccan cuisine. The result? A vibrant, flavor-packed recipe that will transport your taste buds straight to the bustling markets of Marrakech.
Moroccan cuisine is known for its rich mix of spices, balancing sweetness and warmth to create unforgettable dishes. This recipe infuses pasta with key Moroccan flavors like cumin, paprika, and cinnamon, alongside fresh herbs and zesty citrus. It’s a simple way to bring an exotic taste to your table, perfect for a weekday dinner or a special gathering.
Ingredients
For the Pasta:
- 12 oz (340g) spaghetti, fettuccine, or your favorite pasta
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 medium onion, finely diced
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1 tsp ground paprika (or smoked paprika for a deeper flavor)
- ½ tsp ground cinnamon
- ½ tsp turmeric
- Pinch of cayenne pepper (optional, for a hint of heat)
- 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes, or 4 fresh tomatoes, finely chopped
- 1 tbsp tomato paste
- ½ cup vegetable or chicken stock
- 1 cup canned chickpeas (drained and rinsed)
- ½ cup dried apricots, chopped
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
For Garnish:
- ¼ cup fresh cilantro or parsley, chopped
- 2 tbsp slivered almonds, lightly toasted
- Lemon wedges, for serving
Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Reserve ½ cup of pasta water, then drain the rest and set the pasta aside.
Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the onions and cook for 3-4 minutes until soft. Stir in the garlic and cook for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
Step 3: Add the Spices
- Sprinkle in the cumin, paprika, cinnamon, turmeric, and cayenne (if using). Stir well, letting the spices toast for about 1 minute to enhance their flavor.
Step 4: Build the Sauce
- Add the diced tomatoes, tomato paste, and stock to the skillet. Stir to combine and bring the sauce to a simmer. Add the chickpeas and dried apricots, then season with salt and pepper. Simmer gently for 10-15 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly and the apricots plump up.
Step 5: Combine the Pasta and Sauce
- Toss the cooked pasta into the skillet with the sauce, mixing well to coat each strand with the spiced tomato blend. If the sauce feels too thick, stir in a bit of the reserved pasta water until you get your preferred consistency.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
- Transfer the pasta to serving plates or a large platter. Garnish with chopped cilantro or parsley, toasted almonds, and a squeeze of fresh lemon juice for brightness.
Substitutions and Tips
- Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free pasta to make this dish suitable for gluten-intolerant diners.
- Protein Boost: Swap chickpeas for cooked shredded chicken or add lamb meatballs for a heartier meal.
- Vegetable Lovers: Add roasted zucchini, eggplant, or bell peppers for extra texture and nutrients.
- Skip the Sweet: If apricots aren’t your thing, try golden raisins or leave out the dried fruit altogether.
Serving Suggestions
Pair this Moroccan Spiced Pasta with a side of flatbread or a simple green salad topped with citrus vinaigrette. For drinks, a glass of mint tea or a light-bodied white wine complements the dish beautifully. If you want a complete Moroccan-inspired dinner, serve alongside roasted carrots with harissa and a bowl of creamy hummus.
This recipe is vibrant yet incredibly easy to make, even for beginner cooks. Whether you're cooking for family, friends, or just treating yourself, Moroccan Spiced Pasta is guaranteed to impress. The combination of warming spices, tangy tomatoes, and sweet apricots creates a uniquely satisfying meal. Go ahead, give it a try, and bring a taste of Morocco into your kitchen tonight!
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