Are you tired of the same old pasta dishes and looking to spice things up? Look no further! Indian cuisine has a wealth of flavors that can be seamlessly incorporated into your favorite pasta recipes. In this article, we’ll take you on a culinary journey across India, exploring 18 unique and delicious spicy Indian pasta recipes that will tantalize your taste buds.
From creamy butter chicken pasta to tandoori chicken alfredo, these dishes combine the rich flavors of Indian cuisine with the comfort of pasta. Whether you’re in the mood for something light and refreshing or hearty and indulgent, we’ve got a recipe that’s sure to satisfy. So go ahead, add some spice to your pasta game, and get ready to fall in love with these bold and flavorful dishes!
Masala Macaroni with Peas and Carrots
This flavorful pasta dish combines the comfort of macaroni with the sweetness of peas and carrots, all wrapped up in a warm Indian-inspired spice blend.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz macaroni
– 1 cup frozen peas
– 1 cup diced carrots
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon curry powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook the macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. Heat the oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the peas, carrots, cumin, curry powder, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Cook for an additional 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are tender.
4. Combine the cooked macaroni with the vegetable mixture and stir to combine.
5. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Creamy Butter Chicken Pasta
A rich and creamy pasta dish packed with tender chicken, flavorful butter sauce, and a hint of Indian spices.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta (linguine or fettuccine work well)
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 tbsp unsalted butter
– 1/4 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup chicken broth
– 1 tsp garam masala powder
– 1/2 tsp cumin powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or cilantro for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium-high heat. Add chicken and cook until browned, about 5-6 minutes. Remove from heat and set aside.
3. In the same skillet, add heavy cream, chicken broth, garam masala powder, cumin powder, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
4. Bring mixture to a simmer and let cook for 2-3 minutes or until slightly thickened.
5. Add cooked pasta and chicken back into the skillet. Toss to combine with creamy sauce.
6. Serve hot, garnished with parsley or cilantro if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Spicy Paneer Tikka Penne
Elevate your pasta game with this Indian-inspired twist on classic penne. Tender paneer (Indian cheese) and crunchy vegetables come together in a spicy tomato sauce, making for a flavorful and satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz penne pasta
– 250g paneer, cut into small cubes
– 1 onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) crushed tomatoes
– 1 tsp garam masala powder
– 1/2 tsp cumin powder
– 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper
– Salt, to taste
– Fresh cilantro, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Cook penne pasta according to package instructions; drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, heat oil over medium-high. Add onions and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Add garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Add paneer cubes, bell pepper, crushed tomatoes, garam masala powder, cumin powder, cayenne pepper, and salt. Stir well to combine.
5. Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes or until the flavors have melded together and the paneer is tender.
6. Combine cooked penne pasta with the spicy paneer mixture. Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Garlic Naan Pasta Bake
A twist on classic pasta bakes, this Garlic Naan Pasta Bake combines the flavors of India with a comforting Italian dish.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz pasta of your choice (e.g., penne, fusilli)
– 1 package garlic naan bread, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 cups mixed vegetables (e.g., bell peppers, cherry tomatoes, broccoli)
– 1 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add mixed vegetables and cook until tender.
4. Add garlic naan bread pieces to the skillet and cook for 1-2 minutes on each side, until lightly toasted.
5. Combine cooked pasta, vegetable mixture, and cheese in a baking dish. Toss to combine.
6. Cover with foil and bake for 20 minutes. Remove foil and continue baking for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the top is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Tandoori Chicken Alfredo Pasta
A fusion of Indian and Italian flavors, this dish combines the rich spices of tandoori chicken with the creaminess of Alfredo sauce, all wrapped up in a delicious pasta package.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb. pasta of your choice
– 2 lbs. boneless, skinless chicken breasts, marinated in tandoori spice mix (see below)
– 2 tbsp. butter
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 tsp. garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or cilantro for garnish
Tandoori Spice Mix:
– 2 tbsp. garam masala
– 1 tsp. ground cumin
– 1 tsp. coriander powder
– 1/2 tsp. cayenne pepper
– 1/2 tsp. salt
– 1/4 tsp. black pepper
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. Grill or cook the tandoori chicken in a skillet until cooked through. Slice into strips.
3. In a large saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in heavy cream and Parmesan cheese. Bring to a simmer.
4. Add garlic powder, salt, and pepper to taste.
5. Combine cooked pasta, tandoori chicken, and Alfredo sauce. Toss until well coated.
6. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley or cilantro.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Curry Leaf and Mustard Seed Spaghetti
This unique recipe combines the familiar comfort of spaghetti with the bold flavors of Indian spices, featuring curry leaves and mustard seeds. The result is a dish that’s both familiar and exotic, perfect for adventurous eaters.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz spaghetti
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 onion, thinly sliced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon ground coriander
– 1/4 teaspoon turmeric powder
– 1/4 teaspoon red chili flakes (optional)
– 2 curry leaves
– 1 tablespoon mustard seeds
– Salt, to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
2. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add cumin, coriander, turmeric, and chili flakes (if using). Cook for 1 minute.
4. Stir in curry leaves and mustard seeds. Cook for an additional 30 seconds.
5. Combine cooked spaghetti with the spice mixture, adding reserved pasta water as needed to achieve desired consistency.
6. Season with salt to taste. Serve hot, topped with Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Chana Masala Fusilli
This recipe combines the classic Indian dish Chana Masala with the fun and twist of fusilli pasta, creating a unique and flavorful fusion. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup fusilli pasta
– 1 can chickpeas (14 oz)
– 2 medium onions, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon garam masala powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 2 tablespoons tomato puree
– 1 cup water
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook fusilli pasta according to package instructions and set aside.
2. In a large pan, heat oil over medium heat. Add onions and cook until translucent.
3. Add garlic, cumin, garam masala powder, salt, and pepper. Cook for 1 minute.
4. Stir in chickpeas, tomato puree, and water. Bring to a simmer.
5. Combine cooked fusilli pasta with the Chana Masala mixture. Toss to coat.
6. Serve hot, garnished with cilantro leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Kerala Coconut Milk Pasta
This recipe combines the richness of coconut milk with the comfort of pasta, inspired by the flavors of Kerala. With its aromatic spices and creamy sauce, this dish is sure to become a new favorite.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz pasta (linguine or fettuccine work well)
– 1 cup coconut milk
– 2 tbsp vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1/2 tsp ground coriander
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add chopped onion and sauté until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add cumin, coriander, salt, and pepper to the skillet and stir for 1 minute.
4. Pour in coconut milk and bring to a simmer. Let cook for 2-3 minutes or until slightly thickened.
5. Combine cooked pasta with the coconut milk sauce and toss until well coated.
6. Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Biryani-Style Baked Rigatoni
This recipe takes the classic Indian dish, biryani, and gives it a creative twist by using baked rigatoni instead of traditional basmati rice. The result is a flavorful, aromatic pasta dish that’s perfect for a unique dinner party or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz (340g) rigatoni
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup (250ml) biryani spice blend (available at Indian grocery stores)
– 1 cup (250ml) chicken broth
– 1/2 cup (125ml) grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook rigatoni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add diced onion and cook until translucent, about 5 minutes.
4. Add minced garlic and biryani spice blend; cook for an additional minute.
5. In a large bowl, combine cooked rigatoni, chicken broth, Parmesan cheese, salt, and pepper. Toss until well combined.
6. Transfer the pasta mixture to a baking dish and top with the onion-garlic mixture.
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Garam Masala Spaghetti Aglio e Olio
This recipe combines the rich flavors of Indian spices with the simplicity and heartiness of Italian pasta. The result is a unique and delicious fusion dish that will leave you craving for more.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz spaghetti
– 1/4 cup ghee or vegetable oil
– 3-4 garlic cloves, thinly sliced
– 1 tsp garam masala powder
– Salt, to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
– Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente.
2. In a large skillet, heat the ghee or oil over medium-high heat.
3. Add the garlic slices and sauté for 2-3 minutes, or until golden brown and fragrant.
4. Add the garam masala powder and stir to combine with the garlic.
5. Toss cooked spaghetti in the skillet with the garlic-garam masala mixture.
6. Season with salt to taste.
7. Serve hot, topped with chopped parsley and grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Spinach and Corn Indian Pasta Salad
A vibrant and flavorful twist on traditional pasta salad, this recipe combines the creaminess of spinach with the sweetness of corn, all wrapped up in a nutty and aromatic Indian-inspired package.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta of your choice (e.g., penne or fusilli)
– 1 cup fresh spinach leaves
– 1 cup frozen corn kernels, thawed
– 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon ground coriander
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped cilantro or scallions for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package directions, then set aside.
2. In a large bowl, combine spinach, corn kernels, Greek yogurt, lemon juice, cumin, coriander, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.
3. Add the cooked pasta to the bowl and toss until coated with the spinach-corn mixture.
4. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
5. Garnish with chopped cilantro or scallions, if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Malabar Fish Curry Linguine
Malabar Fish Curry Linguine Recipe
A classic Malabar dish with a twist! This recipe combines the flavors of Kerala’s famous fish curry with the comfort of linguine pasta.
Ingredients:
– 250g linguine pasta
– 500g boneless fish pieces (preferably kingfish or mackerel)
– 2 medium onions, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated ginger
– 1 teaspoon Malabar curry powder
– 1/2 teaspoon turmeric
– 1/2 teaspoon red chili flakes
– Salt, to taste
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 cup coconut milk
– Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Cook linguine pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. Heat oil in a pan over medium heat. Add onions, garlic, and ginger; sauté until the onions are translucent.
3. Add fish pieces and cook until they turn opaque.
4. Add curry powder, turmeric, chili flakes, and salt. Stir well.
5. Add diced tomatoes and coconut milk. Bring to a simmer.
6. Reduce heat to low and let it cook for 10-15 minutes or until the sauce thickens.
7. Combine cooked pasta with the curry sauce. Garnish with cilantro leaves.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Rajma Pasta in Tomato Gravy
A flavorful fusion of Indian and Italian cuisine, this recipe combines the richness of rajma (kidney beans) with the comfort of pasta.
Ingredients:
– 250g pasta of your choice
– 1 cup cooked kidney beans (rajma)
– 2 medium onions, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
– 1 tsp tomato puree
– 1/2 tsp garam masala powder
– Salt, to taste
– Fresh cilantro, for garnish
– Olive oil, for cooking
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. Heat olive oil in a pan over medium heat. Add onions and cook until translucent (3-4 minutes).
3. Add garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Stir in cooked kidney beans, crushed tomatoes, tomato puree, garam masala powder, and salt. Bring the mixture to a simmer.
5. Combine cooked pasta with the tomato gravy. Toss to coat evenly.
6. Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Cheesy Methi (Fenugreek) Pasta Bake
This recipe combines the familiar comfort of pasta bake with the unique flavor and aroma of methi (fenugreek). The result is a deliciously cheesy, herby dish that’s sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
– 250g pasta of your choice
– 2 cups fresh methi leaves, chopped
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/2 cup tomato sauce
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 180°C (350°F).
2. Cook pasta according to package instructions, then set aside.
3. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened.
4. Add chopped methi leaves and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes or until wilted.
5. Combine cooked pasta, tomato sauce, and methi mixture in a baking dish.
6. Top with cheddar and Parmesan cheese.
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Goan Prawn Curry Spaghetti
Experience the flavors of Goa with this unique fusion dish that combines the spices of traditional Goan prawn curry with the comfort of spaghetti. This recipe is perfect for a quick and delicious weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz spaghetti
– 1 lb large prawns, peeled and deveined
– 2 medium onions, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 cup Goan curry paste (or substitute with Indian red chili powder)
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1 tsp smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Cook spaghetti according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add onions and cook until translucent (3-4 minutes).
3. Add garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Add prawns and cook until pink and fully cooked (3-4 minutes per side).
5. Stir in curry paste, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
6. Add diced tomatoes and stir to combine.
7. Combine cooked spaghetti with the prawn curry mixture.
8. Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro leaves.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Aloo Gobi Penne with Turmeric
A flavorful and aromatic Indian-inspired pasta dish that combines the spices of turmeric, cumin, and coriander with the comfort of potatoes, cauliflower, and penne.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz penne
– 2 medium-sized potatoes, peeled and diced
– 1 head of cauliflower, broken into florets
– 1 small onion, chopped
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon ground coriander
– 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
– Salt, to taste
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Cook the penne according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large pan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the onion and cook until translucent, about 5 minutes.
4. Add the garlic, cumin, coriander, turmeric, and salt. Cook for an additional minute, stirring constantly.
5. Add the potatoes and cauliflower to the pan. Stir well to combine. Cook for 10-12 minutes or until the vegetables are tender.
6. Combine the cooked penne with the vegetable mixture. Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro leaves.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Eggplant Bharta Lasagna Rolls
Eggplant Bharta Lasagna Rolls: A Creative Twist on Classic Italian Cuisine
This innovative recipe combines the flavors of India and Italy to create a unique and delicious dish. Tender eggplant, rich tomato sauce, and creamy ricotta cheese come together in a lasagna roll that’s sure to impress.
Ingredients:
– 2 large eggplants
– 1 cup ricotta cheese
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh basil leaves, chopped (optional)
– 8-10 lasagna noodles
– Mozzarella cheese shreds, for serving
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Slice the eggplant into 1/4-inch thick rounds.
3. In a pan, sauté the onion and garlic until softened; add crushed tomatoes, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 10 minutes.
4. Fill each lasagna noodle with a spoonful of the tomato sauce mixture, followed by ricotta cheese and Parmesan cheese.
5. Roll up the noodles tightly and place seam-side down in a baking dish.
6. Top with mozzarella shreds and chopped basil (if using).
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Keema Pav Stuffed Shells
This recipe combines the flavors of Indian street food, Keema Pav, with the comfort of stuffed shells. The result is a unique and delicious twist on traditional pasta.
Ingredients:
– 12 jumbo pasta shells
– 1 pound ground beef or lamb
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon garam masala
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 cup marinara sauce
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook pasta shells according to package instructions.
3. In a large skillet, cook ground beef or lamb until browned, breaking into small pieces as it cooks.
4. Add onion, garlic, garam masala, and cumin to the skillet and cook until onion is translucent.
5. Stuff each cooked pasta shell with the meat mixture, placing them in a baking dish.
6. Pour marinara sauce over the stuffed shells, followed by shredded mozzarella cheese.
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 25 minutes
Summary
Indulge in the bold flavors of India with these 18 spicy pasta recipes! From creamy butter chicken to tandoori chicken alfredo, and from curry leaf spaghetti to cheesy methi bake, these dishes will transport your taste buds to the streets of India. With a mix of classic pasta shapes like penne and fusilli, as well as unique twists on traditional Indian dishes, there’s something for every spice lover. Whether you’re in the mood for a comforting bowl or a quick and easy weeknight dinner, these recipes are sure to satisfy your cravings.
