Pasta Perfection Fennel is the perfect fall vegetable and one of my favorite seasonal ingredients!
Did you know that you can also use fennel fronds, not just the bulb? They have a glorious herbaceous flavor! I couldn’t resist making fennel the star of this quick and sophisticated weeknight pasta. The meal is served on a dinner bowl from the new Hammock Collection by Noritake! This collection features numerous items to create your own personalized collection. All items are available in Blue, Khaki, and Grey!
Fennel Pasta with Almonds & Spicy Meatballs Serves 4 1 pound ground beef 1/2 pound ground pork 1 small red onion, finely chopped, divided 1/2 cup breadcrumbs 1 teaspoon salt 1/2 teaspoon pepper 1–2 teaspoons hot sauce, whatever kind you like best 1 tablespoon butter 3 tablespoons olive oil 1 medium head fennel 1/4 cup pine nuts 1/4³ cup whole almonds 1 pound cooked pasta (I used penne) 1 cup grated Parmesan salt and pepper extra virgin olive oil, for serving 1. Mix ground meat, half the onion, breadcrumbs, salt, pepper, and hot sauce. 2. Roll into 8 large meatballs. 3. Sauté the meatballs in butter until done and golden, 12–15 minutes. 4. Thinly slice the fennel and finely chop 1/2 cup of the fronds. 5. Heat the oil in a skillet, and sauté remaining onions and fennel until soft. Add nuts, and cook for another 2 minutes. 6. Mix the fennel into the pasta, and add Parmesan, and some extra virgin olive oil. 7. Season with salt and pepper, and serve with Parmesan on the side and a green salad.
For over a century, Noritake has had a commitment to quality, design, and craftsmanship in tableware manufacturing. Visit NoritakeChina.com to view the complete Hammock Collection, featuring a variety of plate options, bowls, and serving pieces.