As the first warmth arrives, the desire to be outdoors grows. The days get longer and are perfect for an outing, such as a picnic. Do you want to know why pasta is the ideal food to prepare and bring with you? It’s economical, everyone likes it, it’s healthy, and sustainable. Here’s a perfect recipe for you to enjoy outdoors.
Pasta, beloved by all.
According to data from a Doxa research study, one in four global consumers (24%, with peaks of 28% in Italy) reportedly increased their pasta consumption in recent years. The reasons for this choice can be found both in rationality and in gratification: in all countries, especially according to the French, the main reason is that “it has a long shelf life” (59%). Following that, the fact that “it’s good, and eating a gratifying food always helps in difficult times” (40%), especially for Italians and Germans. Additionally, “it pleases everyone and brings people together” (22%). Furthermore, they consumed more pasta because “it’s a healthy food” (25%), arguing that a wellness-oriented diet is crucial for staying healthy and living long.
The perfect pasta recipe for a picnic.
Still wondering if it’s time to bring out summer clothes , we’re savoring the first warm days of spring, entering the perfect season to enjoy a meal immersed in nature, a countryside outing, and a picnic. Just a few items to create the perfect mix for a special day with loved ones: a tablecloth, a basket, and a few dishes prepared at home. Unsure of what to pack in the lunchbox? Pasta, with a recipe perfect for the season, is the star of our outdoor meal: here’s the recipe suitable for everyone, including vegetarians (and vegans, if you substitute the Parmesan).
Whole wheat penne with avocado cream and pistachios
Ingredients for 4 people
350 g whole wheat penne
2 small ripe avocados
1 untreated lemon
A handful of fresh mint leaves
Extra virgin olive oil
Salt and freshly ground pepper
2 tablespoons Parmesan cheese
1 tablespoon chopped pistachios
Procedure
Put a large pot of salted water on the heat and bring it to a boil.
Wash the lemon and grate the zest. Grate it or cut it with a very sharp knife, avoiding the white part, and then chop it. Squeeze the lemon juice into a small bowl.
Cut each avocado in half and scoop out the fruit pulp with a spoon. Mash it with a fork until you get a coarse cream. Season it with lemon juice and add a couple of tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil and a little salt.
Cook the pasta and drain it very al dente, then season it with the avocado cream, some of the cooking water, the Parmesan, lemon zest, chopped pistachios, and fresh mint.
Let it cool and then add it to your basket of goodness to take outside. Enjoy your picnic!
