Pasta Lacqua
Pasta Lacqua is a delightful dish combining tender green beans, ripe tomatoes, and a flavorful cheese sauce, enhanced with white wine and chicken stock. Its fresh, vibrant flavors make it perfect for a light, satisfying meal that pairs well with fettucine and suits those craving a Mediterranean-inspired pasta.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook green beans al dente and set aside.
- Melt butter over medium heat in a large skillet or saucepan; do not brown.
- Add peeled and chopped tomatoes to the butter and toss to combine.
- Pour in chicken stock and white wine; bring to a boil.
- Add grated cheese and stir until melted.
- Add cooked green beans to the sauce.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Toss the sauce with cooked fettucine until well coated.
Tips & Substitutions
For a vibrant twist, consider adding some sautéed zucchini and red peppers to the dish for additional color and flavor. If you're short on time, store-bought chicken stock can be a great substitute for homemade. Adjust the amount of cheese to your preference, and feel free to use a mix of cheeses like Parmesan or Pecorino for a richer taste.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Pasta Lacqua with a light side salad or garlic bread for a complete meal. It pairs beautifully with Tomato Basil Soup for a comforting dinner. For a fresh touch, garnish with fresh basil or parsley before serving to elevate the dish's presentation.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, add a splash of chicken stock or water to the skillet to prevent the pasta from drying out. Heat gently over low heat, stirring frequently until warmed through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Pasta Lacqua contains roughly 133 calories, with 4g protein, 7g carbohydrates, and 9g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (41% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin C. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 771mg per serving (34% 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 frozen green beans instead of fresh?
Yes, frozen green beans can be a convenient substitute. Just ensure they are thawed and drained before adding them to the sauce. However, fresh green beans provide a better texture and flavor, so use them if possible.
What type of cheese works best for this recipe?
A good melting cheese works best, such as mozzarella or a mild cheddar. You can also experiment with sharper cheeses like aged Parmesan for added depth of flavor. Adjust the cheese based on your personal taste preference or what you have on hand.
Can I make this dish vegetarian?
Absolutely! Simply replace the chicken stock with vegetable stock and omit the cheese or use a plant-based alternative. This will keep the flavors rich and satisfying while catering to vegetarian diets.
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).