Are you craving a restaurant-quality pasta dish without the restaurant prices or hassle? Then look no further! This Parma Rosa sauce recipe is your ticket to a quick, easy, and incredibly delicious meal. It’s the perfect blend of creamy, cheesy, and subtly sweet, and it comes together in under 20 minutes. Get ready to elevate your weeknight dinners with this simple yet impressive homemade cooking delight! This is one of the best recipes for a healthy and satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 4 ounces pancetta, diced (or bacon, for a smoky twist)
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (28-ounce) can crushed tomatoes
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons dry white wine (optional, but adds depth of flavor)
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- Freshly grated Parmesan cheese, for serving (optional)
- Fresh basil leaves, for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
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Sauté the Pancetta: Heat the olive oil in a large saucepan over medium heat. Add the diced pancetta and cook until crispy, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the pancetta with a slotted spoon and set aside, leaving the rendered fat in the pan.
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Sauté Aromatics: Add the chopped onion to the saucepan and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
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Deglaze (Optional): If using white wine, pour it into the saucepan and let it simmer for a minute or two, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan. This adds a lovely depth of flavor.
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Simmer the Sauce: Stir in the crushed tomatoes, oregano, and basil. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Bring the sauce to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low and cook for 15 minutes, stirring occasionally.
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Creamy Finish: Stir in the heavy cream and Parmesan cheese. Cook for another 5 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened slightly. Stir in the crispy pancetta.
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Serve: Serve the Parma Rosa sauce over your favorite pasta. Top with extra grated Parmesan cheese and fresh basil leaves, if desired.
Cooking Tips & Variations:
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a touch of heat.
- Veggie boost: Sauté some sliced mushrooms or bell peppers with the onions for added flavor and nutrients.
- Make it richer: Use a combination of heavy cream and crème fraîche for an even creamier sauce.
- Protein power: Add cooked chicken, sausage, or shrimp to the sauce for a heartier meal. This is perfect for a quick dinner idea.
- Adjust the herbs: Feel free to experiment with other herbs, such as thyme or rosemary.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This nutritional information is an estimate and will vary depending on the specific ingredients used and serving size.
- Calories: Approximately 350-400
- Fat: Approximately 25-30g
- Protein: Approximately 10-15g
- Carbohydrates: Approximately 15-20g
This easy recipe is a fantastic addition to your repertoire of delicious dishes. It's perfect for a weeknight meal, a casual dinner party, or whenever you're craving a comforting and flavorful pasta sauce. Enjoy!