Have you ever found yourself standing in the grocery aisle, staring at a sea of hazelnut cocoa spreads, wondering which one to choose? Well, you’re not alone! Today, I’m excited to share my journey through the Batalha de Nutella—a delightful exploration of the best hazelnut cocoa spreads out there. And while we’re at it, I’ll also sprinkle in some of my favorite easy pasta recipes that pair perfectly with these delicious spreads. So, grab a cup of coffee, and let’s dive into this sweet adventure!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Perfect for quick family dinners that everyone will love.
Easy to whip up, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
Versatile enough to be used in both sweet and savory dishes.
Great for satisfying those late-night cravings!
Pairs wonderfully with creamy garlic pasta for a unique twist.

Ingredients

To embark on this hazelnut journey, you’ll need a few key ingredients. Here’s what you’ll want to gather:

1 jar of your favorite hazelnut cocoa spread (Nutella or a store brand)
1 package of pasta (spaghetti or fettuccine work great)
2 tablespoons of butter
2 cloves of garlic, minced
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley for garnish

Full ingredient list with measurements is provided in the printable recipe card below.

How to Make the Recipe

Now, let’s get cooking! Here’s how to create a delicious dish that combines the rich flavors of hazelnut cocoa with pasta:

Start by boiling a pot of salted water. Once it’s bubbling, add your pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente.
While the pasta is cooking, melt the butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1-2 minutes.
Once the pasta is done, reserve a cup of pasta water and drain the rest. Add the drained pasta to the skillet with the garlic butter.
Stir in the hazelnut cocoa spread, mixing well. If the sauce is too thick, add a bit of the reserved pasta water until you reach your desired consistency.
Season with salt and pepper to taste, and garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

Pro Tips for Making the Recipe

Here are some of my favorite tips to ensure your dish turns out perfectly:

Don’t overcook the pasta! Al dente is key for the best texture.
Feel free to add some crushed red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.
If you want to make this a full meal, consider adding grilled chicken or sautéed vegetables.
Experiment with different hazelnut spreads to find your favorite flavor profile.
For a creamier sauce, you can add a splash of heavy cream or a dollop of cream cheese.

How to Serve

This dish is perfect for a cozy weeknight dinner! Serve it warm, topped with extra parsley and perhaps a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese. Pair it with a simple side salad or some garlic bread for a complete meal. And if you’re feeling adventurous, try serving it alongside a dessert featuring hazelnut cocoa spread for a delightful finish!

Make Ahead and Storage

If you’re planning ahead, this dish can be made in advance! Just prepare the pasta and sauce separately, and store them in airtight containers in the fridge. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply reheat the pasta and sauce together in a skillet, adding a splash of water if needed to loosen the sauce. This makes it a fantastic option for 30-minute meals during busy weeks!

So there you have it! The Batalha de Nutella is not just about choosing the best hazelnut cocoa spread; it’s about creating delicious meals that bring joy to your family. Whether you’re whipping up this creamy garlic pasta or exploring other weeknight dinner ideas, remember that cooking should be fun and fulfilling. Happy cooking, and enjoy every bite!