Pink Pasta Sauce

If you’re looking for a vibrant dish that brings a smile to your dinner table, Pink Pasta Sauce is the answer. This luscious sauce, with its blend of creamy goodness and tomato flavor, creates a delightful balance that coats every strand of pasta beautifully. Perfect for date nights or family gatherings, this recipe is not only easy to make but also incredibly satisfying. Let’s dive into what makes this dish so special and how you can whip it up in your own kitchen!

What Makes This Recipe Special

Pink Pasta Sauce is not just a feast for the eyes; it’s a lovely medley of flavors that pays homage to classic Italian cuisine while adding a contemporary twist. The combination of tomatoes and cream creates a luxurious texture that is both rich and comforting. The garlic and shallots provide depth, while the herbs bring a burst of freshness. Whether you’re serving it with rigatoni or another pasta of your choice, this sauce can elevate your meal from ordinary to extraordinary.

What Goes In

To make this delicious Pink Pasta Sauce, you will need the following ingredients:

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 tablespoon butter
• 4-6 garlic cloves, minced
• 1/2 cup diced shallots
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste
• 1/8-1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes
• 28-oz. can whole peeled San Marzano tomatoes (Cento, Muir Glen, or San Marzano brand)
• 14.5-oz. can fire-roasted diced tomatoes, not drained
• 1 teaspoon chicken bouillon (base, powder, or crushed cube)
• 1 1/2 teaspoons each dried oregano, dried parsley, dried basil (or 1 tablespoon diced fresh)
• 1 1/4 teaspoons salt, plus more to taste
• 1/4 teaspoon each dried thyme, pepper, sugar
• 1 whole bay leaf
• 1 cup (100g) freshly grated Parmesan cheese (grated on a microplane)
• 1 cup heavy cream, half and half, or milk (see notes)
• Chopped fresh basil for garnish
• 1 pound rigatoni or pasta of choice

Equipment Breakdown

To prepare this sauce, you’ll need a few key pieces of equipment:

• Large skillet or saucepan – for cooking the sauce
• Wooden spoon – for stirring
• Measuring cups and spoons – for precise ingredient measurements
• Pot for boiling pasta – a large pot is ideal for cooking the pasta
• Microplane – for grating cheese

Step-by-Step: Pink Pasta Sauce

Step 1: Sauté Aromatics

Begin by heating the olive oil and butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Once melted, add the minced garlic and diced shallots. Sauté for about 3-4 minutes, or until the shallots are translucent and fragrant.

Step 2: Add Tomato Paste and Spices

Stir in the tomato paste and red pepper flakes. Cook for an additional 2 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.

Step 3: Incorporate Tomatoes

Pour in the whole peeled San Marzano tomatoes and the fire-roasted diced tomatoes (do not drain). Use a spoon to break up the whole tomatoes slightly.

Step 4: Season the Sauce

Add the chicken bouillon, dried herbs, salt, thyme, pepper, sugar, and the bay leaf. Stir everything together and let it simmer on low heat for 20-25 minutes. This will allow the flavors to deepen and develop.

Step 5: Add Cream and Cheese

After simmering, remove the bay leaf and stir in the heavy cream and grated Parmesan cheese. Allow the sauce to simmer for another 5-10 minutes until it thickens slightly.

Step 6: Cook the Pasta

While the sauce is simmering, cook your pasta according to package instructions in a large pot of salted boiling water. Once al dente, reserve a cup of pasta water and drain the rest.

Step 7: Combine Pasta and Sauce

Add the drained pasta to the sauce and toss to coat. If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of reserved pasta water to reach your desired consistency.

Step 8: Serve

Serve your Pink Pasta Sauce hot, garnished with chopped fresh basil and additional grated Parmesan if desired. Enjoy!

Nutrition-Minded Tweaks

If you’re looking to lighten up your Pink Pasta Sauce without sacrificing flavor, consider these options:

• Use half-and-half or milk instead of heavy cream to reduce fat content.
• Incorporate more vegetables, such as spinach or zucchini, for added nutrition.
• Swap out the Parmesan for a lower-fat cheese option or nutritional yeast for a dairy-free alternative.
• Serve over whole-grain or legume-based pasta for added fiber and protein.

Troubleshooting Tips

Sometimes things don’t go as planned in the kitchen. Here are some tips to troubleshoot common issues:

• If the sauce is too acidic, add a pinch of sugar to balance the flavors.
• For a thicker sauce, let it simmer longer to reduce moisture content.
• If the sauce is too thick, gradually add reserved pasta water until you reach the desired consistency.
• For a spicier kick, increase the red pepper flakes to taste.

Cooling, Storing & Rewarming

If you have leftovers (which is rare, but possible!), here’s how to handle them:

• Cool the sauce completely before storing.
• Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• To freeze, place in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months.
• To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and warm gently on the stovetop, adding a splash of water or milk if needed to restore creaminess.

FAQ

Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned?

Yes! If you prefer fresh tomatoes, consider using about 2-3 pounds of ripe tomatoes. Blanch them to remove the skins, then chop and proceed with the recipe.

What pasta works best with Pink Pasta Sauce?

While rigatoni is a great choice due to its shape, other pastas like penne, fettuccine, or even spaghetti can also pair beautifully with this sauce.

Can I make this sauce ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the sauce a day in advance. Just reheat gently before serving and add the cooked pasta.

Is there a vegetarian option for the chicken bouillon?

Yes! Look for a vegetable bouillon powder or cube as a substitute for a vegetarian-friendly option.

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Final Thoughts

With its beautiful color and rich flavor, Pink Pasta Sauce is sure to become a favorite recipe in your home. Perfect for any occasion, this sauce offers a delightful blend of simplicity and elegance that you can feel good about serving. Whether it’s a cozy family dinner or a festive gathering with friends, your guests will be asking for seconds! Enjoy the creamy, dreamy experience and watch as your pasta comes alive with flavor. Happy cooking!