Description
This Perfectly Pink Pasta recipe combines the richness of a creamy tomato sauce with the savory flavors of garlic and shallots. It’s a quick and easy dish that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner, yet elegant enough for entertaining.
Ingredients
Scale
Pasta:
- 12 ounces pasta (penne or rigatoni work well)
Sauce:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 small shallot, finely chopped
- 1/2 cup tomato paste
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup whole milk
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Garnish:
- Chopped fresh basil for garnish
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
- Make the Sauce: In a large skillet over medium heat, heat olive oil. Add the garlic and shallot, sauté until fragrant. Stir in the tomato paste, cook for 2 minutes. Lower heat, add cream and milk, whisk until smooth and pink. Simmer for 3–4 minutes, stir in Parmesan.
- Combine: Add cooked pasta to the sauce, toss to coat. Season with salt and pepper, cook for 1–2 minutes.
- Serve: Garnish with fresh basil and Parmesan. Serve immediately.
Notes
- To make it vegan, use plant-based cream and milk, omit cheese, or use a dairy-free alternative.
- You can add grilled chicken, shrimp, or sautéed veggies for a heartier version.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian-Inspired
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Calories: 430
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 320mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 52g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 14g
- Cholesterol: 45mg
