Spirulina Pasta

Spirulina pasta is not a traditional Italian dish, but we can certainly give it an Italian touch. Spirulina is an algae rich in protein, vitamins, and minerals and is commonly used as a dietary supplement. Here is a simple recipe to prepare spirulina pasta with an Italian twist.

Ingredients

• 250g of pasta (e.g., spaghetti or penne)
• 1 tablespoon of spirulina powder
• 2 cloves of garlic
• Extra virgin olive oil (EVO)
• Red chili pepper (to taste)
• Salt, as needed
• Chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)

Preparation

1. Bring a pot of salted water to a boil to cook the pasta. Follow the package directions for cooking times, making sure to keep it al dente.
2. While the pasta is cooking, in a large frying pan, sauté finely chopped garlic cloves in extra virgin olive oil. If you like it spicy, you can add chopped red chili pepper.
3. Dissolve the spirulina powder in a little cooking water from the pasta, creating a sort of liquid paste.
4. Drain the pasta al dente and save some cooking water.
5. Remove the garlic from the pan if you prefer a less intense flavor, and add the pasta.
6. Pour the spirulina mixture into the pan with the pasta and mix well over low heat for a few minutes, adding cooking water if necessary to achieve a creamy texture.
7. Adjust the salt if necessary.
8. Plate the pasta and garnish with chopped fresh parsley.

Curiosities

Spirulina was known and used by ancient civilizations such as the Aztecs who harvested it from their lakes and used it as a source of nourishment. Today it is appreciated for its nutritional properties, including the presence of natural antioxidants and a high protein content. In this recipe, spirulina adds a bright green color and a slightly marine flavor, which can remind one of the taste of the Mediterranean Sea.

If you don’t have spirulina, you can create other healthy green dressings using ingredients like basil pesto or arugula pesto. Enjoy your meal!