Farfalle with Fennel, Cream, and Herbs

Indulge in the rich, creamy flavors of this delectable pasta dish that features caramelized fennel and aromatic scallions. The thinly sliced fennel is sautéed in butter until it becomes tender and takes on a deep caramelized flavor. The addition of minced scallion whites adds an aromatic backbone to the sauce, while the sliced scallion greens bring a bright and crisp touch. To enhance the herbal finish, we’ve minced the fennel fronds and combined them with the scallion greens. Heavy cream works its magic, thickening the sauce and transforming this simple pasta dish into a luxurious and satisfying main course. Look for fennel with attached fronds when shopping, as they add significant flavor to the final dish. Get ready to savor each creamy bite of this ultra-flavorful pasta creation. Nutritional information can be found following the recipe.

INGREDIENTS:

• 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 2 fennel bulbs, fronds chopped, stalks discarded, bulbs halved, cored, and sliced thin (see note)
• Salt and pepper
• 8 scallions, white parts minced, green parts sliced thin
• 2 cups heavy cream
• 1 pound farfalle
• ¼ cup minced fresh tarragon or mint

PREPARATIONS:

1. Melt the butter in a 12-inch nonstick skillet over medium heat.
2. Add the sliced fennel bulbs and ½ teaspoon of salt to the skillet. Cook until the fennel becomes soft and golden, approximately 20 minutes.
3. Stir in the minced scallion whites and cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
4. Pour in the heavy cream and simmer the mixture until it thickens approximately 8 minutes.
5. Meanwhile, in a large pot, bring 4 quarts of water to a boil. Add the farfalle pasta and 1 tablespoon of salt. Cook the pasta, stirring occasionally, until al dente.
6. Reserve ½ cup of the cooking water, then drain the pasta and return it to the pot.
7. Add the sauce, minced fennel fronds, sliced scallion greens, and minced tarragon or mint to the pot with the pasta. Toss everything together to combine.
8. Season the dish with salt and pepper to taste. If needed, add the reserved cooking water to adjust the consistency of the sauce.
9. Serve and enjoy!

YIELD: The recipe yields servings for multiple people.

TIPS:

• Experiment with different herbs such as basil or parsley for a variation in flavor.
• For an extra touch of indulgence, sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese over the pasta before serving.
• Customize the dish by adding cooked chicken or shrimp for additional protein.

In conclusion, this recipe offers a delightful blend of flavors with its caramelized fennel and aromatic scallions. The creamy sauce, enriched with heavy cream, elevates the dish to new heights, turning it into a luxurious and satisfying main course. The combination of tender fennel, fragrant scallions, and fresh herbs creates a harmony of tastes that will leave you craving more. This pasta dish is perfect for those seeking a rich and creamy dining experience with a touch of herbal freshness. Customize it to your liking by adding your favorite herbs or proteins to make it a complete meal. Whether you’re enjoying it for a casual family dinner or impressing guests at a dinner party, this creamy fennel and scallion pasta will surely satisfy your taste buds. Prepare to be delighted by the velvety texture and delightful flavors of this indulgent dish.