Smoked Beet Whole Wheat Pasta Walnuts Sage Whipped Feta Recipe

When you’re ready to step up your pasta game with a daring fusion of flavors, this smoked beet and walnut pasta dish is the culinary adventure you didn’t know you needed. Let’s get cooking!

I adore playing with flavors, and this Smoked Beet Whole Wheat Pasta is a vibrant, nutritious dish that has quickly become a favorite. The earthy sweetness of smoked beets goes perfectly with the nutty whole wheat pasta, while toasted walnuts add a delightful crunch.

With fresh sage and creamy whipped feta, this pasta dish is a perfect blend of textures and flavors—topped off with a hint of lemon zest. It’s rich in vitamins and healthy fats, a completely wholesome choice for any meal.

Smoked Beet Whole Wheat Pasta Walnuts Sage Whipped Feta Recipe Ingredients

• Smoked Beets: Add earthy sweetness and vibrant color; rich in fiber and antioxidants.
• Whole Wheat Pasta: Provides nutty flavor and complex carbohydrates; high in fiber.
• Walnuts: Offer crunch and richness; great source of healthy fats and protein.
• Fresh Sage: Aromatic herb adds earthy depth; known for anti-inflammatory properties.
• Whipped Feta: Creamy, tangy element; contributes protein and calcium.
• Lemon Zest and Juice: Infuse bright, tangy flavor; rich in vitamin C.

Smoked Beet Whole Wheat Pasta Walnuts Sage Whipped Feta Recipe Ingredient Quantities

• 2 medium beets, smoked and peeled
• 12 ounces whole wheat pasta
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 cup walnuts, toasted and chopped
• 8 fresh sage leaves, chopped
• 1 cup feta cheese, crumbled
• 1/4 cup heavy cream
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Zest of 1 lemon
• Juice of 1/2 lemon
• Parmesan cheese, for serving (optional)

How to Make this Smoked Beet Whole Wheat Pasta Walnuts Sage Whipped Feta Recipe

1. Start with the smoking of the beets. Afterward, remove the skin and smoke, then allow the beets to cool.

2. Prepare the whole wheat pasta in a large pot of salted boiling water, following the instructions on the package. Set aside the pasta water, reserving 1 cup, and then drain the pasta.

3. Combine the smoked beets with the lemon juice, a pinch of salt, and a pinch of pepper in a blender or food processor. Blend until smooth and set aside.

4. In a large skillet, medium heat, olive oil.

Frazer Oiler These instructions taken from ree drummond’s The Pioneer Woman Cooks: Dinnertime (New York: William Morrow, 2016), 2
2. Reproduced by permission.
Chapter 1 “A Note from Ree”

5. Blend the beet mixture and add it to the skillet, and then stir it to combine with the sage-infused oil. Cook for another 1-2 minutes.

6. Stir the crumbled feta and heavy cream into the beet mixture. Stir until smooth and creamy. If the sauce is too thick, add a little reserved pasta water to reach desired consistency.

7. Adjust the seasoning to taste, using salt, pepper, and lemon zest. Also, note that when I refer to seasoning in this context, it is not limited to just the sauce. If you find the sauce needs a little something to help it reach its full potential, consider whether the protein or vegetables you are serving with it also needs seasoning.

8. Add the pasta that has been cooked to the skillet with the sauce of beets, well tossing to coat evenly with the sauce.

9. Mix in the toasted and chopped walnuts and mix gently to distribute evenly throughout the pasta.

10. Heat and serve, adorned with more walnuts, minced sage, lemon zest, and a dusting of Parmesan if you like.

Smoked Beet Whole Wheat Pasta Walnuts Sage Whipped Feta Recipe Equipment Needed

1. Smoker or smoking equipment
2. Peeler
3. Large pot
4. Measuring cup
5. Colander
6. Blender or food processor
7. Large skillet
8. Knife
9. Cutting board
10. Zester
11. Juicer or citrus squeezer
12. Spoon or spatula for stirring
13. Tongs or pasta fork for tossing pasta
14. Grater (for Parmesan, if using)

FAQ

• Q: Can I use regular pasta instead of whole wheat?A: Yes, you can use regular pasta in place of whole wheat, but it may change the flavor and texture a bit.
• Q: How long should I smoke the beets?A: For 1 to 2 hours, smoke the beets or until they are tender and have taken on a smoky flavor.
• Q: Can I make this recipe vegan?A: Yes, employ vegan feta and substantial cream substitutes, and leave out the cheese made from parmesan.
• Q: What can I use instead of walnuts?Pecans or almonds can be substituted for walnuts.
• Q: How can I store leftovers?You can keep uneaten food fresh in the refrigerator for up to 3 days if you store it in an airtight container.
• Q: How should I prepare the whipped feta?Mix the feta cheese with whipping cream until the consistency is smooth and creamy.

Smoked Beet Whole Wheat Pasta Walnuts Sage Whipped Feta Recipe Substitutions and Variations

Pasta made from whole wheat: If your dietary needs necessitate it, feel free to use regular pasta or gluten-free pasta.
If you would like to sample another flavor or texture of nut, consider using pecans or almonds in place of the walnuts.
Thyme or rosemary can be used in place of sage. Both herbs carry the same nutrients as sage and are used in the same way. A combination of thyme and rosemary approximates the taste of sage when used in the same quantities.
Feta Cheese: Seeking a different flavor profile? Goat cheese or ricotta can deliver a creamy texture that can stand in for feta.
Heavy Cream: Substitute Greek yogurt or crème fraîche for a lighter, tangier option.

Pro Tips

1. Optimize Beet Smoking When smoking the beets, ensure they are evenly smoked for a richer flavor by turning them occasionally in your smoker. To enhance the smoke infusion, consider using wood chips that complement beets, such as applewood or cherry.

2. Pasta Perfection Cook the pasta al dente, as it will continue to absorb the sauce once mixed. This will prevent it from becoming overcooked and mushy in the final dish.

3. Sage Flavor Boost When heating the olive oil in the skillet, allow the chopped sage leaves to infuse in the oil before adding the beet mixture. This will release their aroma and slightly crispy texture, enhancing the overall flavor profile of the dish.

4. Creamy Consistency When adding the heavy cream and feta, ensure the skillet is on low heat to avoid curdling. Slowly stir in the reserved pasta water a little at a time until you achieve the desired creaminess without thinning it too much.

5. Layered Lemon Zest For an extra citrus kick, add half of the lemon zest while stirring the sauce and reserve the rest for garnish. This layering will provide depth to the lemon flavor throughout the dish.