Pink Sauce Pasta

When it comes to pasta dishes that satisfy both the palate and the soul, Pink Sauce Pasta shines with its creamy, rich flavor profile. This dish combines the robustness of tomato sauce with the smoothness of cream, creating a delightful pink hue that instantly ignites your appetite. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or looking for a quick weeknight meal, Pink Sauce Pasta is versatile enough to fit any occasion. It’s also an excellent way to impress your guests while keeping your cooking efforts simple and straightforward.

Why We Love This Pink Sauce Pasta Recipe

Pink Sauce Pasta is adored by many for more than just its aesthetically pleasing color. The harmony of flavors—from the savory garlic and onion infused with silky cream to the hint of heat from red chili flakes—makes every bite an enjoyable experience. This dish is not only tasty but also offers room for creativity. You can customize it with various proteins such as grilled chicken or shrimp, or load it with your favorite vegetables. Plus, it’s a hit with both kids and adults alike, making it a perfect family meal.

Ingredients about Pink Sauce Pasta

To whip up this delicious Pink Sauce Pasta, you’ll need a handful of simple yet flavorful ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need:

List of ingredients with measurements

• 300 g pasta of choice (penne works beautifully)
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 small red onion, minced
• 4 garlic cloves, minced
• 1.5 cups tomato passata (or puree/sauce; avoid tomato paste)
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• 1 chicken bouillon cube, crumbled
• Pinch of sugar
• Sprinkle of red chili flakes
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 cup milk
• 1/3-1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

How to Make Pink Sauce Pasta Directions

Creating a delightful plate of Pink Sauce Pasta is as easy as following a few straightforward steps. Start by cooking your pasta. You’ll want to boil it in salted water until it reaches al dente, according to the package instructions. Once done, drain the pasta but reserve a bit of the pasta water for later; you may need it to adjust the sauce’s consistency.

Next, in a large skillet, heat the butter and olive oil over medium heat. Once the butter has melted beautifully, toss in the minced red onion. Sauté it for about 4-5 minutes until it becomes translucent and tender. The aroma should start filling your kitchen, making you even more excited for this delicious meal.

Now, add the minced garlic and cook for another minute. Be careful not to burn it, as burnt garlic can overpower the dish. Following this, pour in the tomato passata and sprinkle in the dried basil, crumbled chicken bouillon cube, pinch of sugar, red chili flakes, salt, and pepper to taste. Allow this mixture to simmer for about 5 minutes, letting all the flavors meld together.

Once you’ve achieved the perfect medley of flavors, it’s time for the cream and milk. Gradually mix in the heavy cream and milk, followed by the shredded mozzarella. Stir well to ensure everything is combined; the sauce should start to thicken, creating a luscious pink hue.

Finally, add the cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing everything together until the pasta is well coated in the creamy sauce. If the sauce feels too thick for your liking, add a splash of the reserved pasta water to achieve your desired consistency. Let it warm through for a couple of minutes. Serve immediately, and relish in its flavors!

How to Serve Pink Sauce Pasta

Serving Pink Sauce Pasta is as delightful as making it. This dish is best enjoyed hot; therefore, make sure to serve it straight from the stove. To elevate your presentation, consider plating the pasta in shallow bowls and garnishing with a sprinkle of fresh basil or grated Parmesan cheese for an extra touch of flavor and visual appeal.

For a well-rounded meal, pair your Pink Sauce Pasta with a fresh green salad drizzled with a zesty vinaigrette or garlic bread on the side. If you have some visitors, don’t hesitate to serve this dish family-style, allowing everyone to help themselves right from the pan. It’ll not only spark joy but also foster a cozy, communal dining atmosphere.

Expert Tips: Pink Sauce Pasta

Creating the perfect Pink Sauce Pasta can be straightforward, but a few expert tips can elevate your dish to new heights.

First, always use fresh ingredients when possible. Fresh garlic and onions can immensely enhance the flavor of your sauce, while quality tomatoes can bring depth to the base.

Second, feel free to adjust the spice levels according to your preference. If you love a little heat, increase the amount of red chili flakes.

Third, for an extra creamy texture, consider using more heavy cream or a combination of cream and whole milk.

Lastly, don’t skimp on the cheese! The ooey-gooey mozzarella adds heartiness to your pasta. If you prefer a different cheese, options like Parmesan or ricotta can also make delightful substitutes.

How to Store Pink Sauce Pasta

If you find yourself with leftover Pink Sauce Pasta, storing it is a breeze. Allow the pasta to cool to room temperature before transferring it to an airtight container. You can keep it in the refrigerator, where it will stay fresh for 3-4 days.

When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply reheat on the stovetop over medium heat. Add a splash of milk or reserved pasta water to loosen the sauce if it has thickened too much during storage. Stir well as it warms to ensure it heats evenly and retains that creamy texture you love.

Variation of Pink Sauce Pasta

The beauty of Pink Sauce Pasta is its versatility. While the classic recipe is incredible, you can easily customize it to suit different tastes or dietary needs.

For a protein boost, consider adding cooked grilled chicken, shrimp, or even sautéed mushrooms. If you’re looking for something lighter, incorporating spinach, broccoli, or bell peppers can infuse your dish with extra nutrients and color.

For the adventurous cooks, you might explore adding flavored extracts like pesto for an herby twist or even mixing in some sun-dried tomatoes for a tangy bite. No matter how you choose to adapt this recipe, you’re guaranteed a crowd-pleaser.

FAQ

What is Pink Sauce Pasta?

Pink Sauce Pasta is a delightful dish that combines creamy tomato sauce with pasta, creating a visually appealing pink color. Made using tomato passata and heavy cream, it strikes a perfect balance between tangy and rich flavors.

How can I make Pink Sauce Pasta more spicy?

To increase the spiciness of your Pink Sauce Pasta, consider adding more red chili flakes during the cooking process. You can also experiment with additional spices or a hint of hot sauce for a flavorful kick.

Can I use a different type of pasta for Pink Sauce Pasta?

Absolutely! While penne pasta is traditional for this dish, feel free to use any pasta you prefer—spaghetti, fettuccine, or fusilli would also work well.

How long does Pink Sauce Pasta last in the refrigerator?

Properly stored in an airtight container, Pink Sauce Pasta can last for about 3-4 days in the refrigerator.