If you’re looking for a delicious and quick meal, this 30-Minute Arabic Pasta with Yogurt Sauce is perfect for you. It’s a comforting dish that combines tender pasta, flavorful ground beef, and a creamy yogurt sauce, making it a delightful option for lunch or dinner. Plus, it comes together in just half an hour!
Why Make This Recipe
This recipe is not only quick but also packed with flavor. The combination of spices in the ground beef adds depth, while the yogurt sauce provides a creamy contrast. It’s a great way to introduce your family to Arabic flavors while keeping it simple. Plus, it’s an excellent dish for any occasion, whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a gathering with friends.
How to Make 30-Minute Arabic Pasta with Yogurt Sauce
Ingredients:
- 400 g pasta (I used mafalda corta)
- Salt
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 700 g extra lean ground beef
- 2 cups chopped white onions (roughly 2 medium onions)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 teaspoons allspice (you can also use 7 spice)
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- 2 teaspoons salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 5 tablespoons tomato sauce
- 2.5 cups plain full fat yogurt (750g)
- 1/2 cup tahini
- 1 large garlic clove (crushed)
- 4 teaspoons dried mint (more per preference)
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- A squeeze of lemon
- Toasted pine nuts
- Fresh herbs
Directions:
- Start by boiling the pasta in salted water until al dente. Drain it and drizzle with olive oil. Set aside.
- Meanwhile, cook the chopped onion in a tablespoon of olive oil over medium-high heat until soft and translucent, about 5 minutes.
- Next, add the ground beef. Break it up into small pieces and cook for 5-7 minutes, until browned and most moisture has dried up.
- Add all the spices and the tomato sauce. Mix everything well and taste. Adjust seasoning as needed.
- For the yogurt sauce, mix all the sauce ingredients together using a fork (avoid using a blender).
- Toast the pine nuts with half a tablespoon of olive oil in a pan until lightly golden.
- To serve, layer the pasta, add the ground beef mixture, then the yogurt sauce, and top with the toasted pine nuts and any fresh herbs you like. Enjoy!
How to Serve 30-Minute Arabic Pasta with Yogurt Sauce
Serve this hearty pasta warm. You can place it in a large bowl and let everyone serve themselves, or plate it individually. A sprinkle of fresh herbs enhances the dish visually and adds more flavor.
How to Store 30-Minute Arabic Pasta with Yogurt Sauce
If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The dish can last up to three days. To reheat, simply warm it in the microwave or on the stove until heated through.
Tips to Make 30-Minute Arabic Pasta with Yogurt Sauce
- Make sure the pasta is drained well before adding the olive oil.
- Adjust the spices in the meat mixture according to your taste.
- For extra flavor, let the toasted pine nuts cool before adding them to the dish.
- Feel free to add more herbs to the yogurt sauce for a fresh twist.
Variation
You can substitute the ground beef with ground chicken or turkey for a lighter version. Additionally, adding vegetables such as bell peppers or zucchini to the meat mixture can boost the nutritional value.
FAQs
1. Can I use a different type of pasta?
Yes, you can use any pasta shape you prefer, such as spaghetti or penne.
2. Is there a vegetarian option for this recipe?
Absolutely! You can replace the ground beef with lentils or mushrooms for a hearty vegetarian version.
3. How can I make this dish spicier?
You can add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the meat mixture for some heat.
Arabic Pasta with Yogurt Sauce
Ingredients
Method
- Start by boiling the pasta in salted water until al dente. Drain it and drizzle with olive oil. Set aside.
- Meanwhile, cook the chopped onion in a tablespoon of olive oil over medium-high heat until soft and translucent, about 5 minutes.
- Next, add the ground beef. Break it up into small pieces and cook for 5-7 minutes, until browned and most moisture has dried up.
- Add all the spices and the tomato sauce. Mix everything well and taste. Adjust seasoning as needed.
- For the yogurt sauce, mix all the sauce ingredients together using a fork (avoid using a blender).
- Toast the pine nuts with half a tablespoon of olive oil in a pan until lightly golden.
- To serve, layer the pasta, add the ground beef mixture, then the yogurt sauce, and top with the toasted pine nuts and any fresh herbs you like.