Pasta Rings in Spicy Cucumber Raita

Posted: Wed Jul 25, 2007 5:33 pm
(Serves 10-12 as side dish)

Ingredients:
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2 medium-sized cucumbers, peeled, seeded, and coarsely grated
2 tbsp minced or grated yellow or white onion
2 cups plain yogurt (use the low-fat; the non-fat is chalky tasting)
1 clove garlic, minced or pressed
2 green onions, chopped
1 small tomato, finely chopped
2 tbsp freshly squeezed lemon or lime juice
2 tbsp finely minced fresh mint or parsley
2 tsp ground cumin
1 lb anellini or other small pasta rings
fresh ground black pepper
salt
fresh mint or parley sprigs (garnish)
cucumber slices (garnish)

Instructions:
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Combine grated cucumber and onion in a small non-metallic bowl.
Sprinkle with salt and let stand for 10 minutes. Drain and squeeze dry.

Whisk yogurt until creamy smooth. Add cucumber mixture, garlic, green
onions, tomato, lemon or lime juice, minced mint or parsley, cumin.
Salt and pepper to taste and mix thoroughly.

Chill as long as overnight.

Cook pasta in 4 quarts boiling water until very al dente. Drain and
rinse well in cold water, then drain again. Place in a large bowl and
cool to room temperature, stirring occasionally to keep pasta from
sticking together.

Combine pasta with yogurt mixture. Garnish with mint or parsley sprigs
and cucumber slices.

Note:
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In addition to being very good, this cold side dish is "heart-healthy".
Excellent served with spicy meats.
Tessie2