Tired of the same old pasta sauces? Craving something fresh, flavorful, and surprisingly easy to make? Then look no further! This recipe for rose pasta sauce is your answer. Blending the best of tomato and cream sauces, it creates a beautiful pink hue – hence the name "rose" – and a taste that's both rich and vibrant. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a more elegant meal, this recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. It's one of those delicious dishes that feels both indulgent and healthy, making it a staple in my kitchen. Let’s get cooking!
Ingredients:
This recipe is designed for about 4 servings. Feel free to adjust quantities based on your needs.
- 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 tablespoon tomato paste
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a touch of heat)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- Fresh basil leaves, for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
Get started: Heat the olive oil in a medium saucepan over medium heat. This is one of those easy recipes where even beginners can shine!
Sauté the garlic: Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute, until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as this can make the sauce bitter.
Build the flavor base: Stir in the tomato paste and cook for another minute, stirring constantly. This step deepens the flavor of your rose sauce considerably.
Add the tomatoes and seasonings: Add the crushed tomatoes, oregano, basil, red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and pepper. Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for at least 15 minutes, stirring occasionally. The longer it simmers, the richer the flavor becomes.
Creamy perfection: Stir in the heavy cream and Parmesan cheese. Continue to simmer for another 5 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened slightly. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
Serve: Serve the rose pasta sauce over your favorite pasta. Garnish with fresh basil leaves, if desired. This homemade cooking effort is well worth it!
Tips for the Best Rose Pasta Sauce:
- Use high-quality ingredients: The flavor of your sauce will be directly impacted by the quality of your ingredients. Opt for good quality canned tomatoes and fresh herbs whenever possible.
- Don't rush the simmering process: Allowing the sauce to simmer for a longer period of time will allow the flavors to meld and deepen.
- Adjust the seasonings to your taste: Feel free to adjust the amount of red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper to suit your preferences.
Variations:
- Add vegetables: Sauté some chopped onions, bell peppers, or mushrooms with the garlic for added flavor and nutrition.
- Make it meaty: Brown some ground beef, Italian sausage, or meatballs before adding the garlic and proceed with the recipe as directed.
- Add a touch of sweetness: A teaspoon of sugar or a splash of balsamic vinegar can balance the acidity of the tomatoes.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
Calories: Approximately 350-400 Fat: 20-25g Protein: 10-12g Carbohydrates: 25-30g
This rose pasta sauce recipe is a fantastic example of quick dinner ideas that are both healthy and delicious. It's a simple yet elegant dish that's perfect for any occasion. Enjoy!