I know I’m not the only one who loves The Holiday (top 5 Xmas movie, natch), but am I the only one who specifically loves the way Kate Winslet says “Christmas fettuccine?” Something about her accent! I repeat the words, unprompted, throughout the season. I always thought it just meant you made yourself some fettuccine on Xmas Eve. Feels like a cozy meal next to the tree lights. But apparently it’s an actual dish they make in England?! It’s the colors of the tomato and fresh herbs that make it particularly festive, and I decided I wanted to be particularly festive while watching the gem of a film. Now I’m wondering why more people aren’t talking about this pasta.
Start by sautéing some type of onion (I had half a leftover red onion but any would do – shallot would work really well) with 3 large cloves of garlic. (I like mine garlicky.) While that cooks, make your pasta (3/4 of a lb.) according to the package. Note: I used linguine instead of fettuccine because I happened to have it lying around. Add 2-3 chopped Roma tomatoes (seeded) and let the juices release and kinda get caramelized. This would be a great time to deglaze with some white wine, but I didn’t have any on hand and it tasted fine without. Add 6 tbsp butter and let it melt. Now make it an actual sauce by adding 1 c. heavy cream and 1 c. grated parm. Stir to combine and add a bunch of fresh cracked pepper. Add the pasta directly to the sauce and toss to combine – but don’t fully drain that pasta water! Just use tongs to transfer. Add a bunch of bright green herbs – Italian parsley and basil and toss some more. Add pasta water to get it to the right consistency and enjoy immediately.
You’re basically eating Alfredo, but when it’s prepared this way it’s waaaay less one note. I don’t think it’s something that needs to be reserved for Xmas Eve, but it’s definitely the kind of pasta that feels like a perfect fit for that night.
Peaches to Apples 