This Best Pink Sauce Pasta combines the richness of a creamy tomato sauce with the perfect herbs and spices to create a delightful dish that everyone will love.
Why You Will Love This Recipe
- Creamy and smooth sauce that clings perfectly to the pasta
- A beautiful pink color that makes it visually appealing
- Quick and easy to prepare, perfect for weeknight dinners
A Creamy Delight
The Best Pink Sauce Pasta is a delightful combination of flavors and textures that will please even the pickiest eaters. The creamy sauce, made with heavy cream and crushed tomatoes, creates a luscious coating that clings perfectly to each piece of pasta. This dish is not just about taste; it's about the experience of enjoying a comforting meal that warms the heart.
One of the standout features of this recipe is how the colors blend together to form a beautiful pink hue. This vibrant color not only makes the dish visually appealing but also invites you to dig in. It's a fantastic way to impress guests or simply treat yourself to a lovely dinner.
Quick and Convenient
In today's fast-paced world, finding quick and easy meals is essential. The Best Pink Sauce Pasta can be prepared in under 30 minutes, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknights or last-minute dinners. With just a handful of ingredients and simple steps, you can whip up a restaurant-quality meal in no time.
This recipe's simplicity doesn't compromise flavor. The combination of garlic, herbs, and creamy tomatoes creates a rich sauce that tastes like it took hours to prepare. Plus, it requires minimal cleanup, allowing you to enjoy your meal without the hassle of a complicated cooking process.
Versatile and Customizable
One of the best aspects of the Best Pink Sauce Pasta is its versatility. While the base recipe is delicious on its own, you can easily customize it to suit your preferences. Add vegetables like spinach, bell peppers, or mushrooms for an extra nutritional boost, or toss in some protein like grilled chicken or shrimp for a heartier meal.
This dish also pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides, such as a crisp salad or garlic bread. Whether you're serving it for a family dinner or a gathering with friends, this pasta will undoubtedly become a favorite at your table.
Ingredients
Ingredients
Pasta
- 12 oz penne pasta
- Salt for boiling water
Pink Sauce
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (15 oz) crushed tomatoes
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil leaves for garnish
Make sure to adjust seasonings according to your taste preferences.
Instructions
Instructions
Cook the Pasta
In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add the penne pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Prepare the Sauce
In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.
Combine Ingredients
Add crushed tomatoes, heavy cream, dried basil, and oregano to the skillet. Stir well and let it simmer for about 5 minutes.
Mix Pasta and Sauce
Add the cooked pasta to the sauce. Toss to coat the pasta evenly with the creamy pink sauce. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Serve
Garnish with fresh basil leaves and serve hot.
Enjoy your delicious pink sauce pasta!
Storing Leftovers
If you find yourself with leftovers, storing them is easy! Allow the pasta to cool down before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When you're ready to enjoy it again, simply reheat in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of cream or water to revive the sauce's creaminess.
For those who prefer meal prepping, consider making a double batch of the pink sauce and freezing it in portions. This way, you'll have a quick base ready for future meals. Just cook fresh pasta when you're ready to eat, and combine it with the thawed sauce for a convenient dinner.
Pairing Suggestions
To elevate your dining experience, consider pairing your Best Pink Sauce Pasta with a light white wine such as Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc. These wines complement the creamy and tangy flavors of the sauce beautifully, enhancing the overall meal.
Additionally, serving this dish with a side of garlic bread or a mixed green salad can provide a delightful balance to the richness of the pasta. A sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan cheese on top will also add an extra layer of flavor, making every bite even more enjoyable.
Variations to Try
For a spicy twist, consider adding red pepper flakes to the sauce for a kick of heat. This variation is perfect for those who enjoy a bit of spice in their dishes. Alternatively, you can experiment with different herbs, such as thyme or rosemary, to create unique flavor profiles that suit your taste.
If you want to make this dish lighter, substitute the heavy cream with Greek yogurt or a plant-based alternative. This adjustment will still deliver a creamy texture while reducing the overall calorie count. No matter how you choose to adapt the recipe, the Best Pink Sauce Pasta remains a versatile and delicious option.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use a different type of pasta?
Yes, you can use any pasta shape you prefer, such as spaghetti or fusilli.
→ Is there a way to make this dish vegetarian?
Absolutely! This recipe is already vegetarian, just ensure your cream is vegetarian-friendly.
→ Can I make the sauce in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the sauce ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator. Just reheat before mixing with pasta.
→ How can I make this dish spicier?
You can add red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the sauce for an extra kick.
Best Pink Sauce Pasta
Best Pink Sauce Pasta
Created by: Imogen Price
Recipe Type: Global Flavors
Skill Level: Easy
Final Quantity: 4 servings
What You'll Need
Pasta
- 12 oz penne pasta
- Salt for boiling water
Pink Sauce
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (15 oz) crushed tomatoes
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil leaves for garnish
How-To Steps
In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add the penne pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.
Add crushed tomatoes, heavy cream, dried basil, and oregano to the skillet. Stir well and let it simmer for about 5 minutes.
Add the cooked pasta to the sauce. Toss to coat the pasta evenly with the creamy pink sauce. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Garnish with fresh basil leaves and serve hot.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 380 kcal
- Total Fat: 26g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Cholesterol: 195mg
- Sodium: 85mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 32g
- Dietary Fiber: 3g
- Sugars: 4g
- Protein: 6g