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Thanks to one of our sponsors, Nature's Legacy, I recently discovered how much I like spelt! The spelt grain is part of the wheat family and is available in both whole and white form (just like wheat). Spelt is more mild than wheat though and in my opinion, especially when it's used in baked goods, the outcome is lighter and more cake-like - yes, please! I first tried spelt flour in a whole-grain pumpkin muffin recipe last year, and I am not going to lie...the texture is just divine, and this recipe still remains one of our favorites. And spelt products go beyond just flour, so be sure to look for whole-spelt pasta as well and try some using the pasta recipe below.
If you are new to cooking with spelt (like I was not too long ago!) here are some helpful facts...
- Spelt is a true non-hybrid grain, it has not been hybridized or chemically altered by man (spelt is a natural cross between Emmer wheat and Goats grass).
- Spelt has a deliciously light, nutty flavor and has been grown and eaten around the world for thousands of years.
- Spelt flour can be easily substituted for wheat flour in baked goods.
- The gluten in spelt breaks down in warm water and mixing (which makes it easier to digest) while the gluten in modern wheats is broken down only in acid and alcohol. It can be used by people with wheat intolerance, IBS or other inflammatory problems; but for best results suspend eating modern-day wheat for at least 3 weeks to be able to recognize a difference.
- Spelt contains all eight essential amino acids, is about 60 percent higher in protein than common wheat, and contains B viatamins, iron, potassium, magnesium, manganese, and fiber. Be sure to always choose whole-grain spelt.
More about Nature's Legacy For Life...
Since 1979, Purity Foods (the creators of Nature's Legacy and VitaSpelt) has been a worldwide supplier of certified organic food products. Their organic flour mill is one of the largest in the industry and they provide all-natural organic spelt products without any additives, preservatives or artificial ingredients. Find out more about spelt and the health benefits associated with it. To find Nature's Legacy foods at a store near you, check out their store locator on their website.
Recipe Using Spelt Pasta
Chimichurri is an Argentinian sauce commonly used there as a marinade and sauce for grilled meat. It is similar to pesto and a great use for extra herbs from your garden or the farmers' market. It is light and zesty and therefore perfect to enjoy in the summertime. This versatile pasta could be used as a side dish next to grilled meat, or as a main dish along with some fresh vegetables or meats mixed into the pasta. There are two ways to prepare the chimichurri sauce, with everything chopped up and mixed together (much like a salsa) or by pureeing everything in a food processor. It is fun to experiment and try both techniques.
Chimichurri Spelt Pasta
Ingredients
- 1 box spelt pasta (VitaSpelt or Nature's Legacy Whole Spelt Pasta)
- ⅓ cup red wine vinegar
- 1 teaspoon salt (kosher, plus more to taste)
- 1 head garlic (minced)
- ½ red onion (diced)
- 1 ½ teaspoon chili flakes (more if you like more heat)
- 1 bunch cilantro (stems removed and chopped)
- 1 bunch parsley (stems removed and chopped)
- 1 bunch oregano (stems removed and chopped)
- ¾ cup olive oil (extra virgin)
- pepper (to taste)
Instructions
- Cook whole spelt pasta according to package directions. VitaSpelt Whole Spelt Spaghetti will cook in about 5 minutes.
- Toss cooked pasta with about ½ cup chimichurri sauce. Extra sauce makes a great marinade, sandwich spread, salad dressing, or salsa.
Chimichurri Sauce
- Combine red wine vinegar, 1 tsp. salt, minced garlic, finely diced red onion, and chili flakes in a medium bowl and let stand for 5-10 minutes.
- Stir in cilantro, parsley, and oregano.
- Slowly stir in oil with a fork. Season with salt and pepper to taste.Alternate Chimichurri Instructions: Remove stems from fresh herbs. Puree all ingredients in a food processor or blender. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Lauren S says
I've been reading more about whole grains, ancient grains, and sprouted grains and would love the chance to try these.
Nicole V. says
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Lacey says
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Kate Cherrington says
My husband loves spaghetti.. I want to find a healthy pasta!
Pam says
I'm interesting in comparing spelt pasta to whole wheat pasta and quinoa pasta. I don't love whole wheat pasta, but do like the quinoa pasta.
Kait says
I have heard of spelt pasta, but never knew what it was. It is definitely on my shopping list!
Julie says
We have been trying different things in trying to eat healthier as a family. This would be great to try! Thanks!
Tracie Dickerson says
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elizabeth Jankowski says
facebook it didn't post the first time
Nicole V. says
I would love to try spelt pasta because it's so hard to know which pasta grains use GMO's and which ones don't. This is the only one I've seen that it's clear it's a natural, un-tarnished grain that will be good for my body! Hope I win! =)
Susan Loyer says
Newsletter please!
Amy says
3rd comment:
Newsletter :)
Amber says
I would like to try the Spelt pasta because I am trying to get my family switched over to a clean eating, less processed diet and this seems like it'd be a great alternative.
Angela says
I am interested in spelt because my sons' godfather is GF. Once I made a spelt lasagna for him and would love to try it for our household too!!
Hannah S. says
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Candice Fox says
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Susan Loyer says
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Tera M. says
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MaryBess Leech says
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Mylan says
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Mariah Colby says
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Brian Massey says
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Amy says
2nd comment:
Facebook :)
Amy says
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Tera M. says
Trying to find yummy healthy food to keep my three boys full and healthy! :)
Susan Loyer says
I can't wait to try some of your spelt recipes!
Hannah S. says
Would love to have a new pasta option to try!
Tracie Dickerson says
Facebook!
Amy says
I am interested in trying this as our family is trying to eat healthier by slowing changing different areas of our diet. We have started "The Fresh 20" per your recommendation and love it, so I am sure this will be just as fabulous!
Becky says
I love to try new things :)
Mylan says
Alternatives for toddler allergies:)
Lauren says
I love trying ancient grains and I love pasta, it's a winning combination!
elizabeth Jankowski says
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Amy says
Would love go offer my family a healthier option!
Teresa Goller says
I have tried one recipe using spelt and loved it! I have been looking for more ways to use spelt and I'm very excited to see there is pasta!
Brian Massey says
I am interested in my family and I finding healthier foods to eat.