Pasta is one of the most loved dishes around the world, and its versatility makes it perfect for every taste. While traditional Italian pasta dishes like Spaghetti Aglio e Olio or Pasta Pomodoro hold a special place in our hearts, there’s something truly magical about the fusion creation that is Pink Sauce Pasta. A creamy, tangy, and slightly sweet concoction, it combines the best of both worlds—rich white sauce and flavorful red marinara sauce.
If you’re in the mood for something comforting yet vibrant, Pink Sauce Pasta is your go-to dish. And don’t worry, making it at home is simpler than you might think! Let’s dive into the recipe, and I’ll walk you through the process with a little “desi” twist!
Ingredients:
- Pasta (Choose any kind – spaghetti, penne, fusilli, etc.) – 1 cup
- Butter – 2 tbsp
- Olive Oil – 1 tbsp
- Garlic – 4-5 cloves, finely chopped
- Tomato Puree – 1/2 cup (you can also use fresh tomatoes, blanched and pureed)
- Fresh Cream – 1/2 cup (or you can substitute with milk for a lighter version)
- Cheese – 1/4 cup (grated, preferably Parmesan or mozzarella)
- Maida (All-purpose flour) – 1 tbsp (to thicken the sauce)
- Red Chilli Flakes – 1 tsp (adjust to taste)
- Dried Oregano – 1 tsp
- Salt – To taste
- Black Pepper – 1/2 tsp (freshly cracked)
- Sugar – 1/2 tsp (to balance the acidity)
- Fresh Basil – A few leaves for garnish
How to Make Pink Sauce Pasta:
Boil the Pasta: Start by boiling a pot of water with a pinch of salt. Once it comes to a boil, add your pasta and cook it al dente (slightly firm to bite). This should take around 8-10 minutes depending on the type of pasta you’re using. Drain and set it aside. Remember, never overcook pasta; the sauce will finish cooking it to perfection!
Prepare the Pink Sauce:
- Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil and 2 tablespoons of butter in a pan. Add finely chopped garlic and sauté it until golden brown, releasing its aromatic flavors.
- Add maida (all-purpose flour) to the pan and cook it for about a minute. This will help thicken the sauce, giving it that creamy texture. You might see a slight paste form, and that’s perfectly fine.
Make the Base Sauce:
- Next, pour in the tomato puree and let it cook for 2-3 minutes, allowing the tomatoes to blend well with the butter and flour mixture. You’ll start to see a rich red sauce form.
- Add the fresh cream to the pan. Stir well to combine the ingredients. The cream will give the sauce its luxurious pink hue.
- Season with salt, black pepper, and red chilli flakes to taste. Don’t forget to sprinkle some dried oregano for that perfect Italian flavor.
- Add a pinch of sugar to balance the acidity of the tomatoes. Stir everything together until the sauce thickens and becomes smooth.
Combine the Pasta and Sauce: Now, gently fold the boiled pasta into the sauce. Let it cook for 2-3 minutes, ensuring that each piece of pasta is coated evenly with the creamy, tangy pink sauce. If the sauce feels too thick, you can add a splash of pasta water to loosen it up.
Final Touches: Grate some cheese (Parmesan or mozzarella) over the pasta for an extra layer of richness. Toss everything once more, and your Pink Sauce Pasta is ready to serve!
Garnish and Serve: Plate your pasta and garnish with freshly chopped basil leaves. The basil not only adds color but also brings a fresh, fragrant kick to the dish. If you love spice, sprinkle a few more red chilli flakes on top.
Tips for the Perfect Pink Sauce Pasta:
- Consistency: The key to a creamy pink sauce is balancing the cream and tomato puree. You want a velvety texture without it being too runny or too thick.
- Use Fresh Cream: While you can use milk, fresh cream gives the sauce a richer, more indulgent flavor, making it irresistible!
- Add Protein: If you want to add some protein, try adding grilled chicken, paneer cubes, or even some sautéed mushrooms. It adds more texture and flavor to the dish.
- Veggie Lovers: You can also load up your pasta with vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, spinach, or broccoli for added nutrition.