Are you craving a quick, delicious, and surprisingly healthy pasta dish? Then look no further! Inspired by the iconic Gigi Hadid pasta recipe, this version skips the vodka for a lighter, brighter flavor profile perfect for a weeknight dinner or a casual weekend meal. This easy recipe is packed with fresh ingredients and vibrant flavors, making it a fantastic addition to your repertoire of healthy meals and quick dinner ideas. Get ready to impress your friends and family with this homemade cooking masterpiece!
Ingredients:
- 1 pound linguine or spaghetti
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, adjust to your spice preference)
- 1 (28-ounce) can crushed tomatoes
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus extra for serving
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, oil-packed, drained and chopped
Instructions:
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Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the 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 Aromatics: While the pasta cooks, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes (if using) and sauté for about 1 minute, or until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic.
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Simmer the Sauce: Stir in the crushed tomatoes, heavy cream, and salt and pepper. Bring the sauce to a simmer and cook for about 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until slightly thickened.
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Combine and Finish: Add the cooked pasta, halved cherry tomatoes, chopped sun-dried tomatoes, and half of the Parmesan cheese to the skillet. Toss to combine. If the sauce is too thick, add a little pasta water at a time until you reach your desired consistency.
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Garnish and Serve: Stir in the fresh basil. Serve immediately, topped with the remaining Parmesan cheese and extra basil, if desired.
Tips for Success:
- Don't overcook the pasta: Al dente pasta is key to a great dish. It should be cooked through but still have a slight bite.
- Taste and adjust seasonings: Seasoning is crucial! Taste the sauce throughout the cooking process and adjust the salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes to your liking.
- Use high-quality ingredients: The better the ingredients, the better the dish will taste. Opt for fresh, high-quality tomatoes and Parmesan cheese.
- Fresh basil is best: Fresh basil adds a bright, herbaceous flavor that’s hard to replicate with dried basil.
Variations:
- Add protein: Chicken, shrimp, or sausage would be delicious additions to this pasta dish.
- Make it vegetarian: Omit the meat and add more vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, or zucchini.
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce for extra heat.
- Creamy variations: Try using a different type of cream, such as coconut cream for a richer flavor.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 450-500
- Fat: 20-25g
- Protein: 15-20g
- Carbohydrates: 50-60g
This delicious and easy pasta recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner. The vibrant flavors and fresh ingredients make it a healthy and satisfying meal that the whole family will enjoy. It’s one of those best recipes that’s both impressive and simple to execute. Enjoy!