Description
This Perfectly Pink Pasta is a creamy, comforting dish featuring penne or rigatoni tossed in a rich tomato and cream sauce with garlic, shallots, and Parmesan cheese. Easy to make in just 20 minutes, it’s an ideal weeknight meal that combines classic Italian-American flavors with a luscious pink sauce perfect for vegetarians.
Ingredients
Scale
For the Pasta
- 12 oz penne or rigatoni pasta
- Salt (for boiling water)
For the Sauce
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 small shallot, finely chopped
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup tomato paste
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- Fresh basil for garnish
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and add the penne or rigatoni. Cook until al dente according to package instructions, usually about 10-12 minutes. Drain the pasta and set aside.
- Sauté Aromatics: In a large skillet over medium heat, warm the olive oil. Add the minced garlic and finely chopped shallot and sauté for 2 to 3 minutes until soft and fragrant, being careful not to burn the garlic.
- Add Tomato Paste: Stir in the tomato paste and cook for an additional 2 minutes. This step helps deepen the tomato flavor and enhances the sauce’s richness.
- Make the Pink Sauce: Slowly whisk in the heavy cream and add the red pepper flakes if using. Stir continuously until the sauce is smooth and acquires a rich pink hue.
- Incorporate Cheese and Season: Lower the heat to low and stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until melted and well combined. Season the sauce generously with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
- Toss Pasta with Sauce: Add the cooked pasta directly into the skillet with the pink sauce. Toss thoroughly to ensure every piece is coated with the creamy, flavorful sauce.
- Serve and Garnish: Serve the pasta immediately, garnished with fresh basil leaves for a fragrant and fresh finish.
Notes
- For a lighter version, substitute heavy cream with Greek yogurt or a plant-based cream alternative.
- Add grilled chicken or sautéed shrimp to the dish for extra protein.
- Adjust the red pepper flakes according to your spice preference or omit entirely for a milder flavor.
- Use freshly grated Parmesan for the best melting quality and flavor.
- If preferred, rigatoni can be swapped with penne or other pasta shapes like fusilli or farfalle.
