Let's bring the vibrant spirit of Mardi Gras to your dinner table with this easy and delicious pasta recipe! Forget complicated, time-consuming meals – this vibrant dish is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a fun, festive gathering. Get ready to experience a burst of flavors and colors that will transport you straight to the heart of New Orleans. This recipe is packed with flavor and surprisingly simple to make, proving that healthy meals can also be incredibly delicious and fun.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound pasta (penne, rotini, or your favorite shape)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/2 cup chopped onion
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (14.5 ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1 (10 ounce) can diced tomatoes and green chilies (Rotel), undrained
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (or more, to taste)
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley, for garnish
Instructions:
-
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.
-
Sauté the aromatics: While the pasta is cooking, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
-
Simmer the sauce: Add the diced tomatoes (both cans), chicken broth, oregano, basil, and cayenne pepper to the skillet. Bring to a simmer and cook for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, to allow the flavors to meld. This step is crucial for developing a rich and flavorful sauce; don't rush it!
-
Creamy finish: Stir in the heavy cream and bring back to a simmer. Reduce heat to low and simmer for another 5 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken slightly.
-
Combine and serve: Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss to coat. Stir in the mozzarella and Parmesan cheese until melted and creamy. Season with salt and pepper to taste. If the sauce is too thick, add a little of the reserved pasta water to thin it out.
-
Garnish and enjoy: Serve immediately, garnished with fresh parsley.
Tips and Variations:
- Spice it up: For an extra kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of your favorite hot sauce.
- Meat lovers: Add cooked and crumbled Italian sausage, ground beef, or shredded chicken to the sauce for a heartier meal. Shrimp would also be a delicious addition!
- Vegetarian option: Omit the meat and add a can of drained and rinsed black beans or chickpeas for extra protein and flavor.
- Cheese variations: Experiment with different cheeses like provolone, fontina, or a blend of Italian cheeses.
- Fresh herbs: Enhance the flavor profile with fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This information is an estimate and will vary based on specific ingredients used.
- Calories: Approximately 450-500
- Protein: 15-20g
- Fat: 20-25g
- Carbohydrates: 50-60g
This Mardi Gras pasta is a simple, yet satisfying dish perfect for any occasion. The bright colors and bold flavors are guaranteed to impress, making it a fantastic addition to your repertoire of easy recipes and healthy meal options. Enjoy the deliciousness and the festive spirit!