Candele pasta is a delightful Italian specialty that brings a unique twist to traditional pasta dishes. Named for its candle-like shape, this tube-shaped pasta holds sauces beautifully, making every bite rich and flavorful. It’s perfect for those who love a hearty and satisfying meal with a touch of elegance.
We love how candele pasta pairs well with creamy sauces, chunky vegetables, or savory meats, offering endless possibilities in the kitchen. Whether you’re cooking for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this recipe is sure to impress. Let’s dive into making a delicious candele pasta dish that’s both simple and full of authentic Italian taste.
Ingredients
To create an authentic Candele Pasta dish, we need to prepare both the pasta dough and a rich, flavorful sauce. Below are the ingredients carefully selected to highlight the unique texture and flavor of this pasta.
For the Pasta Dough
We start with simple classic Italian ingredients to craft the perfect dough that holds its shape during cooking:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour, plus extra for dusting
- 3 large eggs at room temperature
- 1 tablespoon olive oil for smooth texture
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
For the Sauce
Our sauce balances creaminess and savory elements, complementing the hollow, candle-like tubes of the pasta perfectly:
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/2 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Optional Garnishes
| Garnish | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Fresh basil leaves | Adds a herbaceous, fresh aroma |
| Grated Parmesan | Enhances the cheesy richness |
| Chili flakes | Provides a subtle heat contrast |
| Toasted pine nuts | Introduces a nutty crunch complementing texture |
Equipment Needed
To prepare our Candele Pasta Recipe flawlessly, having the right equipment on hand streamlines the cooking process and ensures a perfect result every time. Here is what we need for making the pasta dough, shaping the candele, and preparing the sauce:
| Equipment | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Mixing bowls | For combining flour, eggs, and olive oil for the dough |
| Pasta machine or rolling pin | To roll out and shape the pasta dough into sheets |
| Knife or pasta cutter | To cut the dough into long, thick strips resembling candles |
| Large pot | For boiling water and cooking the pasta |
| Colander | To drain the cooked pasta |
| Skillet or sauté pan | To prepare the rich, creamy sauce |
| Wooden spoon or spatula | For stirring sauce ingredients evenly |
| Measuring cups and spoons | To ensure accurate ingredient quantities |
| Grater | For freshly grating Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese |
| Serving dish or platter | To present the finished Candele pasta beautifully |
Using these tools, we control every step from kneading the dough, shaping the pasta, to simmering the luscious sauce. Keeping everything ready on the countertop before starting makes the cooking experience smooth and enjoyable.
“A well-prepared mise en place leads to culinary success.” Our diligent setup will shine through in the texture and flavor of the Candele Pasta Recipe.
Make-Ahead Instructions
To streamline our Candele Pasta Recipe preparation and ensure maximum flavor, we recommend these smart make-ahead steps:
- Prepare the Pasta Dough in Advance
Mix the all-purpose flour, eggs, olive oil, and salt as instructed. Wrap the dough tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. This resting period helps develop gluten, making the dough easier to roll and shape into perfect candele tubes.
- Pre-Cook the Pasta
If short on time on the day of serving, boil the shaped candele pasta just until al dente (about 2 minutes less than the package suggests), then drain and toss lightly with olive oil to avoid sticking. Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 24 hours.
- Prepare the Sauce
The rich butter-garlic-cream sauce enhances when flavors blend over time. We can prepare the sauce a day ahead, cooling it to room temperature before refrigerating. Reheat gently on low heat while stirring to preserve the sauce’s smooth texture.
- Tomato and Basil Garnish
The cherry tomatoes and fresh basil can be washed, chopped, and stored separately in airtight containers for up to 12 hours. This keeps their vibrant flavors fresh and ready to garnish just before serving.
| Make-Ahead Item | Storage Method | Storage Duration | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Pasta Dough | Wrapped in plastic wrap | Up to 24 hours (refrigerated) | Resting develops dough elasticity |
| Pre-Cooked Pasta | Airtight container | Up to 24 hours (refrigerated) | Toss with olive oil to prevent sticking |
| Butter-Garlic-Cream Sauce | Airtight container | Up to 24 hours (refrigerated) | Reheat gently to avoid curdling |
| Cherry Tomatoes & Basil | Separate containers | Up to 12 hours (refrigerated) | Prepare fresh to preserve texture and flavor |
Pro Tip: When reheating the pre-cooked candele, quickly immerse them in boiling water for 30 seconds to refresh their texture before combining with the sauce.
By implementing these make-ahead strategies we gain extra time and confidence during the final cooking process, ensuring our candele pasta dish bursts with authentic Italian flavor and perfect texture every time.
Instructions
Follow these detailed steps to craft our authentic Candele Pasta Recipe, ensuring every stage enhances the texture and flavor.
Preparing the Candele Pasta Dough
- In a large mixing bowl, combine 2 cups of all-purpose flour and a pinch of salt.
- Create a well in the center of the flour and crack in 3 large eggs.
- Add 1 tablespoon of olive oil to the eggs.
- Using a fork, gradually mix the eggs and oil into the flour until a rough dough forms.
- Transfer dough to a floured surface and knead for 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
- Wrap dough in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to develop gluten for a firm yet tender texture.
Shaping the Candele Pasta
- Divide the rested dough into 4 equal parts.
- Roll one part flat with a pasta machine or rolling pin to about 1/8 inch thickness.
- Cut the dough into long rectangular strips measuring approximately 1 inch wide and 6 inches long.
- Carefully roll each strip around a wooden dowel or thick skewer to form the distinctive candle shape.
- Gently slide the formed candele pasta off the dowel and set on a floured surface to dry slightly.
Cooking the Candele Pasta
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil.
- Add the shaped candele pasta and cook for 3-4 minutes if fresh or 8-10 minutes if dried.
- Stir gently to prevent sticking and maintain the pasta’s integrity.
- Drain using a colander, reserving ½ cup of pasta water for sauce adjustment.
| Step | Detail | Time |
|---|---|---|
| Boil Water | Salted, vigorous boil | – |
| Add Candele Pasta | Fresh or dried | 3-10 minutes |
| Drain | Reserve pasta water | – |
Preparing the Sauce
- In a skillet, melt 3 tablespoons of unsalted butter over medium heat.
- Add 3 minced garlic cloves and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute.
- Pour in 1 cup of heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer.
- Stir in 1 cup of grated Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese until melted and sauce thickens, about 3-4 minutes.
- Add 1 cup halved cherry tomatoes and cook for 2 more minutes to soften.
- Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
- Stir in torn fresh basil leaves just before combining with pasta.
Combining Pasta and Sauce
- Add the cooked candele pasta to the skillet with the sauce.
- Toss gently to coat each piece, adding reserved pasta water a tablespoon at a time to achieve a silky consistency.
- Let the pasta simmer with sauce for 1-2 minutes to absorb flavors.
- Serve immediately, garnished with extra grated Parmesan, fresh basil, chili flakes, or toasted pine nuts as desired.
Serving Suggestions
To elevate our Candele Pasta Recipe and delight every palate at the table, we recommend the following Serving Suggestions. These choices complement the pasta’s unique texture and rich sauce, creating a memorable dining experience.
Pairing Ideas for Candele Pasta
- Fresh Basil Garnish: Sprinkle whole or chiffonade fresh basil leaves to add vibrant aroma and a touch of herbal freshness that cuts through the creamy sauce.
- Grated Parmigiano-Reggiano: Offer extra Parmigiano-Reggiano on the side to enrich each bite with umami depth.
- Toasted Pine Nuts: Scatter toasted pine nuts over the top for a pleasing crunch and nutty flavor contrast.
- Chili Flakes: For those who enjoy heat, a light dusting of chili flakes brings subtle spice that enhances the dish without overpowering it.
Recommended Side Dishes
Balancing the hearty nature of the Candele Pasta enhances the meal’s overall appeal. Consider these sides:
| Side Dish | Why It Works |
|---|---|
| Garlic Bread | Adds crunchy texture and buttery flavor |
| Mixed Green Salad | Refreshes the palate with crispness and acidity |
| Roasted Vegetables | Complements with caramelized sweetness and depth |
Wine Pairing
To round out the meal we suggest wines that complement creamy, tomato-based sauces and rich cheese:
| Wine Type | Flavor Profile | Suggested Options |
|---|---|---|
| White Wine | Crisp acidity and citrus notes | Pinot Grigio, Sauvignon Blanc |
| Red Wine | Light to medium body, low tannin | Chianti, Barbera |
Serving Temperature & Presentation Tips
- Serve the Candele Pasta hot and freshly tossed in the sauce to highlight its tender, sauce-holding texture.
- Present on wide shallow bowls to showcase the candle-shaped pasta and garnishes beautifully.
- Drizzle a small amount of extra virgin olive oil on top before serving to add sheen and richness.
“Presentation and temperature are key to fully appreciating the unique shape and sauce of our candele pasta. These serving tips ensure each forkful is as vibrant and flavorful as intended.”
By integrating these Serving Suggestions we bring out the best in our Candele Pasta Recipe, making it a star on any dining table.
Storage and Leftover Tips
Proper storage and handling of candele pasta leftovers ensure the dish retains its authentic flavor and texture for future enjoyment. Here are our detailed tips to keep your pasta fresh and delicious:
Storing Cooked Candele Pasta
- Allow the pasta to cool slightly at room temperature for no more than 30 minutes to avoid condensation in the container.
- Transfer the cooled pasta into an airtight container to preserve moisture and prevent drying out.
- Refrigerate for up to 3-4 days for best quality.
Pro Tip: Store cooked pasta with a light drizzle of olive oil and toss gently before refrigerating to prevent sticking.
Storing the Sauce Separately
- Keep the butter garlic cream sauce in a separate airtight container.
- Refrigerate alongside the pasta.
- Use within 2-3 days for optimal freshness and flavor.
Reheating Leftovers
Follow these steps to ensure your candele pasta reheats perfectly:
| Reheating Method | Steps | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Stovetop | 1. Heat a skillet over medium heat. 2. Add pasta and sauce together. 3. Stir gently until heated through. |
Add 1-2 tbsp water or cream if dry. |
| Microwave | 1. Place pasta and sauce in a microwave-safe dish. 2. Cover loosely. 3. Heat in 1-minute intervals, stirring in between. |
Avoid overheating to prevent dryness. |
| Oven (for larger portions) | 1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). 2. Place pasta and sauce in an oven-safe dish. 3. Cover with foil. 4. Bake for 15-20 minutes. |
Stir halfway through baking for even heating. |
Freezing Candele Pasta
- While we recommend refrigerating for best texture, you can freeze cooked candele pasta if necessary.
- Place pasta and sauce in separate freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags.
- Label with date and freeze for up to 1 month.
- Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating using one of the methods above.
Tips to Maintain Quality
- Avoid mixing pasta and sauce before refrigerating if you want to retain the best texture.
- Always reheat slowly and gently to preserve sauce creaminess and pasta bite.
- Use fresh ingredients like basil or pine nuts as garnishes only when serving, not for storage.
By following these Storage and Leftover Tips, we ensure your candele pasta tastes as fresh and flavorful on day two as it did when freshly cooked.
Conclusion
Candele pasta brings a delightful twist to any meal with its unique shape and ability to hold rich sauces perfectly. By mastering this recipe, we open the door to creating authentic Italian dishes that impress both in flavor and presentation. With a little preparation and the right techniques, making candele pasta at home becomes a rewarding experience that elevates our cooking repertoire. Let’s enjoy the process and savor every bite of this delicious pasta creation.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is candele pasta?
Candele pasta is an Italian specialty shaped like candles. Its hollow, tubular form holds sauces well, enhancing the flavor of each bite.
What types of sauces pair best with candele pasta?
Creamy sauces, chunky vegetables, and savory meats pair excellently with candele pasta, making it versatile for many dishes.
What ingredients are needed to make candele pasta dough?
You’ll need all-purpose flour, eggs, olive oil, and salt to make the dough for candele pasta.
What goes into the candele pasta sauce?
The sauce includes unsalted butter, garlic, heavy cream, Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese, cherry tomatoes, fresh basil, salt, and pepper.
What kitchen tools are essential for making candele pasta?
Key tools include mixing bowls, a pasta machine or rolling pin, a knife or pasta cutter, a large pot for boiling, colander, skillet, and measuring cups.
Can I prepare the dough and sauce ahead of time?
Yes, dough can be refrigerated up to 24 hours, and sauce can be made a day ahead. Pre-cooked pasta can also be stored for convenience.
How do I shape candele pasta?
Roll the dough into strips, cut, and then form them into the candle-like tubular shapes typical for this pasta.
How should candele pasta be cooked?
Boil the pasta in salted water until al dente, then combine with the prepared sauce for a silky texture.
What garnishes and side dishes complement candele pasta?
Garnish with fresh basil, grated Parmesan, toasted pine nuts, and chili flakes. Serve with garlic bread, mixed salads, or roasted vegetables.
How do I store leftover candele pasta and sauce?
Store cooked pasta and sauce separately in airtight containers; pasta lasts 3-4 days, sauce 2-3 days in the fridge.
What is the best way to reheat candele pasta?
Reheat gently on the stovetop, in the microwave, or oven; avoid mixing pasta and sauce until serving to maintain texture.
Which wines pair well with candele pasta?
Crisp white wines like Pinot Grigio or light reds such as Chianti complement candele pasta nicely.