Easy Pink Sauce Pasta in 20 Minutes

Pink Sauce Pasta is a delightful fusion of creamy and tangy flavors that’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a comforting lunch. With just a few simple ingredients, this creamy tomato pasta can be ready in about 20 minutes, making it an ideal choice for busy schedules or those who want to whip up something delicious without spending hours in the kitchen. So grab your apron, and let’s dive into this simple yet satisfying dish!

Ingredients & Kitchen Tools

– Ingredients:
– 8 oz (about 225g) pasta of your choice (penne or fusilli work well)
– 1 cup crushed tomatoes (canned or fresh)
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon dried basil
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving
– Fresh basil leaves, for garnish (optional)

– Kitchen Tools:
– Large pot for boiling pasta
– Skillet or frying pan
– Mixing spoon
– Serving bowl

Prep & Cook Time

– Prep Time: 5 minutes
– Cook Time: 15 minutes
– Total Time: 20 minutes

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Cook the Pasta: In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add your pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

2. Sauté the Garlic: In a skillet over medium heat, warm the olive oil. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant but not browned.

3. Add Crushed Tomatoes: Pour in the crushed tomatoes, stirring well to combine. Allow the mixture to simmer for about 2–3 minutes.

4. Incorporate Cream: Lower the heat and gradually stir in the heavy cream, mixing until the sauce becomes a beautiful pink color.

5. Season the Sauce: Sprinkle in the dried basil, salt, and pepper. Let the sauce simmer for another 5 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.

6. Combine with Pasta: Add the cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing gently to coat every piece in the creamy tomato sauce.

7. Serve: Plate the pink sauce pasta and garnish with grated Parmesan cheese and fresh basil leaves.

Nutritional Benefits or Advantages

Pink Sauce Pasta not only pleases the palate but also packs a wholesome punch. The tomatoes provide antioxidants like lycopene, which can support heart health, while the heavy cream adds a dose of calcium, good for bone strength. Using whole-grain pasta can enhance fiber intake, making this dish even more nutritious!

Tips, Variations, or Substitutions

– Vegetable Boost: Consider adding sautéed veggies like spinach, zucchini, or bell peppers to amp up the nutrition.
– Protein Add-ins: Cooked chicken, shrimp, or tofu can easily elevate this dish.
– Dairy-Free Option: Substitute coconut cream or cashew cream for a dairy-free option.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

– Overcooking the Pasta: Always cook pasta to al dente to maintain texture.
– Not Seasoning Enough: Taste your sauce and adjust the seasoning. A little more salt or a pinch of red pepper flakes can really enhance flavor.
– Skipping the Simmer: Allow the sauce to simmer; this deepens the flavors, especially important when combining the creamy and tomato components.

Storage and Reheating Tips

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a saucepan over low heat, adding a splash of cream or water if the sauce thickens too much.

Conclusion with Call-to-Action

Now that you know how to prepare this scrumptious Pink Sauce Pasta in just 20 minutes, why not give it a try? Perfect for any night of the week, this creamy tomato pasta is sure to become a family favorite. Don’t forget to share your creations and tag us on social media—we love seeing your culinary masterpieces!

FAQs

1. Can I make this pasta ahead of time?
Yes! Prepare the sauce and boil the pasta, but keep them separate until you’re ready to serve to prevent sogginess.

2. What other herbs can I use?
Fresh parsley, oregano, or Italian seasoning can also be delicious additions.

3. Can I freeze leftovers?
It’s best not to freeze creamy sauces, but you can freeze the tomato sauce separately without cream.

4. Is this recipe spicy?
It’s quite mild, but you can add red pepper flakes for some heat!