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Pink Pasta with Creamy Tomato Sauce Recipe

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4.7 from 97 reviews

Perfectly Pink Pasta is a creamy and flavorful dish featuring penne or rigatoni pasta tossed in a luscious tomato cream sauce with garlic, shallots, and Parmesan cheese, garnished with fresh basil for an elegant finish. This easy-to-make recipe offers a delightful balance of rich and tangy flavors, perfect for a comforting weeknight dinner.

Ingredients

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
  • Additional grated Parmesan cheese for serving

Instructions

  1. Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta thoroughly and set aside to keep warm.
  2. Make the Sauce: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add minced garlic and finely chopped shallot, sautéing until fragrant and softened, about 2-3 minutes. Stir in the tomato paste and cook for an additional 2 minutes to deepen the flavor.
  3. Add Dairy and Simmer: Lower the heat to medium-low and gradually whisk in the heavy cream and whole milk until the sauce is smooth and takes on a pink color. Let the sauce simmer gently for 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally.
  4. Incorporate Cheese and Season: Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese and red pepper flakes if using. Season the sauce generously with salt and freshly ground black pepper, adjusting to taste.
  5. Combine Pasta and Sauce: Add the drained pasta to the skillet and toss thoroughly to coat each piece evenly with the pink sauce. Allow it to cook together for 1-2 minutes so the pasta absorbs some of the sauce flavors.
  6. Serve: Transfer the pasta to serving plates or a large bowl. Garnish with chopped fresh basil and extra Parmesan cheese if desired. Serve immediately while warm.

Notes

  • Use penne or rigatoni pasta as they hold the sauce well, but other tube-shaped pasta can be substituted.
  • Adjust the amount of red pepper flakes based on your preferred spice level or omit for no heat.
  • For a richer sauce, consider substituting half-and-half if you want a lighter option than heavy cream.
  • Leftover pasta can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently with a splash of milk or cream to restore creaminess.

Find it online: https://mealoria.com/pink-pasta-with-creamy-tomato-sauce-recipe/