Saffron Scented Cauliflower Pasta

Scandinavian flavors of saffron and golden raisins flavor this cauliflower and small pasta dish. Crispy, toasted bread crumbs lend a light crunch for contrast.

• Preparation Time: 25 mins
• Cooking Time: 35 mins
• Total Time: 60 mins
• Calories: 485 Calories

Ingredients

• 1 cup boiling water
• ¼ cup butter, melted
• 2 teaspoons vegetable oil
• ¼ cup pine nuts
• ½ cup golden raisins
• salt and pepper to taste
• 1 (16 ounce) package ziti pasta
• 1 cup fresh bread crumbs
• 1 small onion, diced
• 1 head cauliflower, chopped into bite size pieces
• 1 teaspoon crushed saffron threads

Recipe Instructions

Step 1

Preheat oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C).

Step 2

Meanwhile, bring a large pot of lightly salted water to a boil. Add pasta and cook for 8 to 10 minutes or until al dente; drain.

Step 3

Stir the saffron threads into the boiling water, and cover. Set aside to steep for several minutes while proceeding with the recipe.

Step 4

Toss the bread crumbs together with the melted butter, and lay out evenly on a cookie sheet. Bake in the preheated oven until golden and crispy, about 20 minutes.

Step 5

While the pasta is cooking, heat 2 teaspoons of vegetable oil in a skillet over medium heat. Stir in the onion, and cook until softened, about 3 minutes. Add the chopped cauliflower and saffron water; season to taste with salt and pepper. Increase heat to medium-high and simmer, uncovered, until the cauliflower has softened, about 10 minutes. Stir in the raisins, pine nuts, and cooked ziti. Pour into a serving dish and sprinkle with browned bread crumbs.