Spicy Thai Pasta Salad

Ingredients and Weight:

1. Spaghetti - 500 grams
2. Red bell peppers - 2, sliced into strips
3. Peanuts - 1/2 cup
4. Fresh basil - 1/4 cup, chopped
5. Fish sauce - 2 tablespoons
6. Thai chili sauce - 3 tablespoons
7. Lime juice - from 2 limes
8. Brown sugar - 1 tablespoon
9. Salt and pepper - to taste

Preparation Time:

Total Time: 45 minutes (30 minutes for cooking, 15 minutes for preparation)

Cooking Time:

30 minutes

Difficulty Level:

Level 3 (Moderate)

Preparation Method Steps:

1. Bring a pot of water to a boil and cook spaghetti according to package instructions. Drain and set aside to cool.
2. In a large bowl, combine red bell peppers, peanuts, and fresh basil. Set aside.
3. In a small bowl, mix fish sauce, Thai chili sauce, lime juice, brown sugar, and season with salt and pepper. Set aside.
4. Add the cooked spaghetti to the bowl with the red bell peppers, peanuts, and basil. Toss gently to mix.
5. Pour the spicy sauce mixture over the pasta salad and toss again until well combined.
6. Serve immediately or chill in the refrigerator for later.

Nutritional Information: (Based on average values; may vary depending on specific ingredients used)

• Calories: Approx. 500 per serving (without considering additional toppings or dressings)
• Fat: 18g
• Carbohydrates: 70g
• Protein: 12g
• Fiber: 4g
• Note: Contains gluten. For a gluten-free version, use gluten-free spaghetti.

Dish Characteristics:

• Spicy and flavorful, with a combination of sweet and sour tastes.
• Texturally appealing with the combination of crunchy peanuts and soft pasta.
• Colorful and visually appealing with the addition of red bell peppers and fresh basil.

User Comments:

1. "This is an excellent blend of flavors! The spicy sauce is just right." - John Doe
2. "Love the combination of ingredients. This is a great dish for a summer picnic." - Jane Smith
3. "The pasta salad is very refreshing and perfect for a hot day." - Lisa Johnson

Special Precautions and Tips:

• Adjust the amount of chili sauce and fish sauce according to your preference for spiciness.
• Use fresh ingredients if possible for maximum flavor.
• For a vegetarian version, omit the fish sauce or replace with vegetable stock or broth.