Maritata
A rich and cheesy Italian-inspired pasta dish featuring fine noodles, creamy cheeses, and a flavorful chicken broth base, perfect for a comforting and elegant meal.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Beat the softened butter until very soft, then beat in the grated Monterey Jack cheese, grated Romano or Parmesan cheese, and egg yolks.
- Gradually mix in the whipping cream until smooth.
- Heat the canned chicken broth, water, and white wine to boiling in a large pot.
- Add the broken pasta into the boiling mixture.
- Boil gently for 8 minutes until pasta is tender.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider using half-and-half instead of whipping cream. If you can't find Monterey Jack cheese, a mild cheddar works well as a substitute. To enhance flavor, add fresh herbs like basil or parsley. Ensure to stir the pasta occasionally during cooking to prevent sticking. If you prefer a heartier dish, include cooked chicken or shrimp, which would complement this dish nicely.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Maritata hot, garnished with freshly grated cheese and a sprinkle of black pepper. It pairs beautifully with a side salad of mixed greens or garlic bread for a complete meal. For a delightful twist, consider serving it alongside Ravioli With Vegetables, which complements the rich flavors of this dish. A crisp white wine, like Sauvignon Blanc, would elevate the dining experience.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, warm gently on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth to loosen the sauce. Avoid reheating in the microwave, as this can make the pasta gummy. If you have excess broth, consider using it as a base for a soup.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Maritata contains roughly 698 calories, with 31g protein, 21g carbohydrates, and 50g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (61% of the Daily Value), vitamin A (53% of the Daily Value), and calcium (47% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 923mg per serving (40% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different type of pasta?
Yes, you can substitute the vermicelli or capellini with other fine noodles like angel hair or even gluten-free pasta. Just adjust the cooking time according to the package instructions to ensure the pasta is tender without becoming mushy.
Is it possible to make this dish vegetarian?
Absolutely! You can replace the chicken broth with vegetable broth and omit any meat if included. This will maintain the flavor while making it suitable for vegetarians. Additionally, consider adding more vegetables to enhance the dish's heartiness.
How can I make Maritata ahead of time?
To prepare Maritata in advance, follow the recipe until the pasta is cooked, then cool it and store it in the refrigerator. When ready to serve, reheat on the stove, adding a little broth or cream to restore its consistency. This method allows for easy entertaining and ensures the flavors meld beautifully.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).