Are you craving a delicious and vibrant pasta dish that's both quick to make and incredibly flavorful? Look no further! This blush sauce recipe is your answer. Blush sauce, a beautiful marriage of creamy tomato and delicate cream, offers a delightful twist on classic pasta recipes. It's the perfect healthy meal for a busy weeknight, easily customizable to your liking, and guaranteed to impress even the pickiest eaters. Get ready to elevate your pasta game with this easy recipe!
Ingredients: You'll Need These Simple Staples
This recipe uses readily available ingredients, making it perfect for spontaneous cooking.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (28 ounce) can crushed tomatoes
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- 1 pound pasta of your choice (linguine, fettuccine, or spaghetti work well)
- Fresh basil leaves for garnish (optional)
Step-by-Step Instructions: A Foolproof Guide
Follow these simple steps for a perfectly creamy and flavorful blush sauce.
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Cook the pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add your pasta and cook according to package directions until al dente. Reserve about 1/2 cup of pasta water before draining.
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Sauté the garlic: While the pasta is cooking, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds, or until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic.
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Simmer the sauce: Add the crushed tomatoes, basil, oregano, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Bring to a simmer and cook for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, to allow the flavors to meld.
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Create the blush: Stir in the heavy cream and Parmesan cheese. Reduce the heat to low and simmer for another 5 minutes, or until the sauce has slightly thickened. If the sauce is too thick, add a little of the reserved pasta water to thin it out.
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Combine and serve: Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss to coat evenly with the blush sauce. Serve immediately, garnished with fresh basil leaves, if desired.
Cooking Tips for Pasta Perfection
- For a richer flavor, use fresh basil and oregano instead of dried.
- Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a touch of heat.
- Don't overcook the pasta; al dente pasta holds its shape better in the sauce.
- Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Salt and pepper are your friends!
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Variations to Explore: Beyond the Basics
This blush sauce recipe is incredibly versatile. Here are a few fun variations:
- Add protein: Incorporate cooked chicken, shrimp, sausage, or meatballs for a more substantial meal.
- Boost the veggies: Add sauteed spinach, mushrooms, or sun-dried tomatoes for extra flavor and nutrients.
- Spice it up: A dash of red pepper flakes adds a welcome kick.
- Creamy variations: Try using half-and-half or crème fraîche instead of heavy cream for a lighter sauce.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate)
This nutritional information is an estimate and may vary based on specific ingredients used.
- Calories: Approximately 400-500
- Fat: 20-25g
- Protein: 15-20g
- Carbohydrates: 50-60g
This easy blush sauce recipe is a fantastic addition to your repertoire of quick dinner ideas and healthy meals. It's a delicious and satisfying dish that's perfect for a weeknight dinner or a casual weekend meal. Enjoy!