Looking for a comforting and delicious pasta dish? This pink sauce pasta recipe is just what you need! With its creamy texture and rich flavor, it’s perfect for a family dinner or a cozy date night. Made with simple ingredients, this dish will impress your guests and satisfy your cravings. Let’s dive into the culinary delight that is pink sauce pasta!
Ingredients
- 200g pasta (fettuccine or penne)
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup crushed tomatoes
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Fresh basil for garnish
- Parmesan cheese, grated
- Red pepper flakes (optional)
Servings and Cooking Time
This recipe serves 2 people. Preparation time is about 10 minutes, and cooking time takes around 20 minutes.
Nutritional Value
Each serving of this pink sauce pasta (1 cup) contains approximately 550 calories, 30g of fat, 45g of carbohydrates, and 15g of protein. This is based on one serving for one person.
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
- Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
- Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute.
- Pour in the crushed tomatoes and stir well.
- Let the mixture simmer for 5 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
- Reduce the heat, then add the heavy cream to the skillet.
- Mix until the sauce is creamy and well combined.
- Season with Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper to taste.
- Add the cooked pasta to the sauce, tossing to coat thoroughly.
- Serve hot, garnished with fresh basil and grated Parmesan cheese.
Alternative Ingredients
Feel free to substitute heavy cream with half-and-half for a lighter version, or use coconut cream for a dairy-free option. You can also add vegetables like spinach or mushrooms for extra nutrition.
Serving and Pairings
This pink sauce pasta pairs beautifully with a side salad, garlic bread, or roasted vegetables. A glass of white wine complements the dish perfectly.
Storage and Reheating
Store leftover pink sauce pasta in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm it gently on the stovetop, adding a splash of cream or water to loosen the sauce. It is not recommended to freeze this dish, as the cream may separate upon thawing.
Cooking Mistakes
- Overcooking the pasta can lead to mushy texture.
- Not seasoning the sauce can result in bland flavors.
- Using low-quality tomatoes can affect the overall taste.
- Skipping the simmering step can lead to a less flavorful sauce.
- Adding cream too quickly can cause it to curdle.
Helpful Tips
- Always taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
- Reserve some pasta water for a silkier sauce.
- Use fresh herbs for enhanced flavor.
- Make it spicy by adding red pepper flakes.
- Experiment with different types of pasta for variety.
FAQs
Can I make pink sauce pasta ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the sauce ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator. Simply cook the pasta fresh when ready to serve.
What types of pasta work best for this recipe?
Penne and fettuccine are excellent choices as they hold the sauce well, but feel free to use your favorite type!
Is pink sauce pasta vegetarian?
Yes, this recipe is vegetarian as it contains no meat. You can enhance it with vegetables for added nutrition.
Can I add protein to pink sauce pasta?
Absolutely! Grilled chicken, shrimp, or even tofu can be added for a protein boost.
How can I make this dish spicier?
Add red pepper flakes during cooking or incorporate diced jalapeños for extra heat.
Conclusion
This pink sauce pasta recipe is a delightful blend of flavors that is sure to impress. It’s easy to prepare, customizable, and perfect for any occasion. Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a special gathering, this dish will be a crowd-pleaser. Enjoy the creamy goodness and make it your own!
Pink Sauce Pasta Recipe
Ingredients
- 200 g pasta fettuccine or penne
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup crushed tomatoes
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Fresh basil for garnish
- Parmesan cheese grated
- Red pepper flakes optional
Instructions
- Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
- Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute.
- Pour in the crushed tomatoes and stir well.
- Let the mixture simmer for 5 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
- Reduce the heat, then add the heavy cream to the skillet.
- Mix until the sauce is creamy and well combined.
- Season with Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper to taste.
- Add the cooked pasta to the sauce, tossing to coat thoroughly.
- Serve hot, garnished with fresh basil and grated Parmesan cheese.
