Creamy Gorgonzola Farfalle with Apples & Pecans Recipe

Looking for a pasta dish that combines creamy, sweet, and nutty flavors? This Creamy Gorgonzola Farfalle with Apples & Pecans recipe is the perfect choice. The richness of gorgonzola cheese, paired with crisp apples and crunchy pecans, creates a balanced and satisfying meal. Packed with protein, healthy fats, and antioxidants, this dish is both nutritious and indulgent. Each serving contains approximately 450-550 calories, making it ideal for a cozy family dinner or a special occasion.

Recipe Details

Servings: 4
Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes

Ingredients

For this Creamy Gorgonzola Farfalle with Apples & Pecans recipe, you will need:

• 12 ounces (340 g) farfalle (bow-tie pasta)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 1 small shallot, finely chopped
• 2 medium apples (Granny Smith or Honeycrisp), diced
• ½ cup pecans, toasted and roughly chopped
• ¾ cup (6 ounces) gorgonzola cheese, crumbled
• 1 cup heavy cream
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
• ¼ teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)

Instructions

1. Cook the Farfalle

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the farfalle and cook until al dente (about 10-12 minutes).
2. Reserve ½ cup of the pasta water, then drain the pasta and set it aside.

2. Prepare the Sauce

1. Heat olive oil and butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the shallot and sauté for 2-3 minutes until softened.
2. Stir in the diced apples and cook for an additional 3-4 minutes until they start to soften but retain their texture.

3. Make It Creamy

1. Lower the heat and pour in the heavy cream. Simmer gently for 2-3 minutes, then add the gorgonzola and Parmesan cheese. Stir until the cheeses are fully melted.
2. Season with black pepper and salt. Adjust seasoning as needed.

4. Combine Pasta and Sauce

1. Add the cooked farfalle to the skillet and toss until the pasta is well-coated with the sauce.
2. If the sauce is too thick, use the reserved pasta water to thin it out. Stir in the toasted pecans for extra flavor and texture.

5. Serve and Garnish

1. Plate the pasta and garnish with fresh parsley if desired.
2. Serve immediately for the best flavor.

Tips for the Best Creamy Gorgonzola Farfalle

• Apples Matter: Use tart apples like Granny Smith for a perfect contrast to the creamy sauce. If you prefer a sweeter flavor, opt for Honeycrisp or Fuji.
• Toast Your Pecans: Toasted pecans enhance the overall flavor and add a delightful crunch.
• Cheese Substitutes: Not a fan of gorgonzola? Swap it for blue cheese or even cream cheese for a milder taste.
• Lighter Version: Substitute heavy cream with half-and-half to reduce calories without compromising too much on flavor.

Final Thoughts

This Creamy Gorgonzola Farfalle with Apples & Pecans recipe is a harmonious blend of creamy, sweet, and savory flavors. Perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions, it’s sure to please everyone at the table. As always, feel free to customize the recipe by adding or removing ingredients to suit your taste.

Pair this pasta with a crisp white wine like Chardonnay or a light cider for an unforgettable dining experience.