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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.
LaniQ says
The last few years I have cut back on eating wheat and have been experimenting with other grains. I love spelt but have never had the opportunity to try spelt noodles, I would love to taste them.
Katarina says
I am interested in the spelt pasta because I am always searching for ways to add whole grains into my meals.
Em says
I have tried spelt flour on occasion but didnt know it was so full of goodness! Would LOVE to win the mixed case and wow the fam....and who couldnt use a little help with grocery cash! Thanks Lisa!
Jenna says
I'd love to try this! We are recent (mostly) gluten-free converts but this sounds interesting!
Alison says
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Katie says
I would love to try spelt as I never have before. It's intersting to hear about it compared to wheat and now I want to have a taste test to see for myself!
Alison says
I want to eat a yummy pasta that keeps me FULL!
Deborah says
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Deborah says
We have been switching over to Spelt for the baking side and slowly switching our pasta (which we eat a little more of then we probably should but it is so convenient) over to Spelt. My oldest boy has some sensitivities to wheat so Spelt has been kinder to him.
Heather Grace says
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Heather Grace says
I love to bake with spelt flour but have never seen spelt pasta before... would love to give it a try!
Rachael says
We've been trying some wheat alternatives, so I would love to try this!
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Holly says
I am trying to eat healthier and would love to try spelt as something different from whole wheat all the time, plus it seems like it might be even healthier than whole wheat!
Kara D says
I am interested in the spelt pasta because I am always searching for ways to add whole grains into my meals.
Danielle says
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Danielle says
I always just assumed spelt would be "heavier" than whole wheat...but hearing you say that it's milder makes me want to try this!
Tina says
With turning 42 this year, I also had my 3rd child. I really want our family to focus on eating healthier. I would really like to start adding in more whole foods into our diet. I am currently looking to do all this on a budget, and by winning this it would put our family of 5 on the right path.
Tiffany says
I've been trying all sorts of new grains lately, but I haven't checked out Spelt yet. :)
Rebecca says
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Rebecca says
I am really interested in trying whole spelt pasta because our family loves whole wheat pasta but sometimes we need a change from our dinner routine and it can be difficult to find healthy alternatives that please everyone. Really excited to try this brand!
Noel says
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Jessie M. says
One of our favorite recipes on 100 days of real food is the Spelt Pumpkin muffins…my daughter LOVES them. If we enjoy the spelt muffins that much…I am sure we would enjoy the pasta and would love to give it a go….
Noel says
I would love to try spelt pasta to add some variety to our dinners.
Dana says
We have tried going to all whole grain products in the past, but had trouble finding products everyone like. Would love to try a product that may check everyone's boxes and still be healthy!!
Rebecca @ Runner with an Appetite says
I adore pasta, so to be able to keep eating it while having an actually nutritious meal would be great!
Jane says
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Caryn Robinson says
I would love to win this prize because it is very hard to find "real" food in my area. I love finding new healthful alternatives to old processed family favorites, and this will definitely be my newest alternative. Please select me!
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Karianne says
I've always wanted to try spelt products. I think it would add more variety to our meals!
Jane says
I've tried Skinny Dip Noodles & the texture is a bit like rubber bands & not too tasty. Spelt will be great since I have a hard time digesting wheat. Excited to try them, even if I don't win!
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