This homemade pici verde pasta served with roast tomatoes and paprika meatballs is an ideal festive dish when you are Home for Christmas.

The ingredients for the pasta are: 200g spinach, washed well and 300–350g Italian ’00’ flour (strong white flour).

For the meatballs: 1 tbsp olive oil, plus extra, 1 onion, finely chopped, 2 garlic cloves, finely chopped, 300g minced beef, 300g minced pork, 100g soft white breadcrumbs, 50ml soured cream or crème fraîche, 2 tsp sweet smoked paprika, 1 tsp hot smoked paprika (or to taste), 1 tsp dried oregano, 2 tbsp finely chopped parsley, 1 free-range egg, salt and freshly ground black pepper.

For the roast tomatoes: 400g cherry tomatoes, halved, salt, to taste, sprig thyme, leaves only, 2 garlic cloves, finely sliced and 2-3 tbsp olive oil.

To garnish: fresh basil leaves and grated parmesan.

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