Pasta in pink sauce, a delightful fusion of creamy and tangy, is a comforting dish perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or simply looking for a cozy meal at home, this dish is sure to please. With a smooth blend of marinara and béchamel sauce, it has just the right amount of flavor. Here’s how to make your own pasta in pink sauce.
Ingredients:
- For the pasta:
- 200g of pasta (penne, fusilli, or spaghetti work best)
- 1 tablespoon of olive oil
- Salt (for boiling pasta)
- For the pink sauce:
- 1 cup of marinara sauce (store-bought or homemade)
- 1 cup of heavy cream
- 1 tablespoon of butter
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 teaspoon of red chili flakes (optional for some heat)
- 1/4 teaspoon of Italian seasoning or mixed herbs
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil (for garnish)
Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Start by boiling a pot of salted water. Once it comes to a boil, add the pasta and cook according to the package instructions. Usually, this takes about 8-10 minutes. Once done, drain the pasta and toss it with a tablespoon of olive oil to prevent it from sticking together. Set it aside.
2. Prepare the Pink Sauce:
- In a large skillet or pan, melt the butter over medium heat. Once melted, add the chopped onion and sauté until it becomes soft and translucent (about 3-4 minutes).
- Add the minced garlic and sauté for another minute, making sure not to burn it.
- Pour in the marinara sauce and mix well. Let it simmer for 3-4 minutes to combine the flavors.
- Now, stir in the heavy cream and reduce the heat to low. The cream will give the sauce its creamy, luscious texture, turning the sauce a beautiful pink color.
- Season with salt, pepper, red chili flakes, and Italian seasoning. Let the sauce simmer for an additional 3-5 minutes until it thickens slightly.
3. Combine the Pasta and Sauce:
- Add the cooked pasta into the skillet with the pink sauce. Toss to coat the pasta evenly in the sauce. Let it cook together for 2-3 minutes, allowing the pasta to absorb the flavors.
4. Serve:
Once everything is well combined, plate your pasta. Garnish with fresh basil leaves and a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Tips & Variations:
- Vegetables: Add some vegetables like mushrooms, bell peppers, spinach, or zucchini to the sauce for an extra boost of flavor and texture.
- Protein: You can also add grilled chicken, shrimp, or bacon bits to make the dish more hearty.
- Homemade Marinara Sauce: If you prefer, you can make your own marinara sauce using fresh tomatoes, garlic, onions, and herbs for a more authentic touch.
- Spicy: If you love spice, you can increase the amount of chili flakes or even add a pinch of cayenne pepper for an extra kick.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
- Quick & Easy: With simple ingredients and easy steps, this pasta dish can be made in under 30 minutes.
- Comforting & Creamy: The combination of marinara and heavy cream creates a rich, creamy texture that’s irresistibly delicious.
- Customizable: Whether you prefer your pasta with vegetables or meat, this dish allows you to add your favorite ingredients.
Pasta in pink sauce is the perfect meal when you crave something comforting, creamy, and full of flavor. The tanginess of the marinara sauce paired with the smooth cream is a match made in heaven. Enjoy this delightful dish with a side of garlic bread or a light salad, and you’ve got a satisfying meal!
