Are you ready to indulge in a delectable dish that tantalizes your taste buds? The BEST Pink Sauce Pasta combines the richness of creamy sauces with the heartiness of traditional pasta, creating a delightful gastronomic experience. This scrumptious meal is not only simple to prepare, but it also boasts a vibrant color that adds flair to any dinner table.
Moreover, this irresistible pink pasta dish is incredibly versatile, allowing you to incorporate fresh vegetables or proteins of your choice. Whether you’re cooking for a family gathering or a cozy night in, The BEST Pink Sauce Pasta is sure to impress. So, let’s dive into the secrets behind this fan-favorite recipe!
Ingredients for The BEST Pink Sauce Pasta:
For this delightful Pink Sauce Pasta, gather the following ingredients:
– 250 g beetroot: washed thoroughly and chopped (£1.50/2) = (£0.75)
– 200 g feta: some reserved for crumbling (£0.70)
– 300 g shallots: peeled and sliced in half (£0.85)
– 6 garlic cloves: skin removed and left whole (£0.39)
– ½ lemon: juiced (£0.25)
– 300 g rigatoni: the perfect pasta for this dish (£0.80)
– Optional herbs: top with basil or mint for added flavor
– Side: 2 heads of broccoli
Cupboard Essentials:
– 1 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
– Chilli flakes: for a touch of heat
– Salt and pepper: to taste
This indulgent Pink Sauce Pasta blends the earthiness of beetroot with creamy feta, creating a unique flavor profile that’s both vibrant and satisfying. As an accompaniment, consider preparing a side of broccoli—a nutritious addition that complements the dish beautifully. For more mouthwatering recipes, check out this creamy 15-minute avocado pasta, which offers an equally delightful experience. Enjoy your culinary adventure!
How to prepare The BEST Pink Sauce Pasta:
To create The BEST Pink Sauce Pasta, start by preheating your oven to 200°C (392°F). Lay the chopped beetroot, sliced shallots, and whole garlic cloves on a baking tray. Drizzle with olive oil, and sprinkle salt, pepper, and chili flakes for a kick. Roast for about 30 minutes, or until tender.
While the vegetables roast, cook the rigatoni in a large pot of salted water until al dente. Reserve about a cup of pasta water before draining. Once the veggies are ready, blend them with feta cheese and lemon juice until smooth. If needed, add some reserved pasta water to achieve the desired sauce consistency.
Toss the rigatoni with the beetroot sauce, integrating the vibrant flavors. For a fresh touch, sprinkle extra feta on top and garnish with basil or mint. Serve alongside steamed broccoli for a delightful meal. If you’re looking for an equally comforting dish, try high protein broccoli pasta as a nutritious alternative.
Serving Suggestions for The BEST Pink Sauce Pasta:
Discover delightful ways to elevate your experience of The BEST Pink Sauce Pasta. First, pair it with a crisp side, like a fresh Caesar salad. The tangy dressing complements the creamy sauce beautifully. You might also enjoy serving this pasta alongside Creamy Tuscan Chicken Pasta, which enhances the Italian flair of your meal.
For a hearty option, consider a side of Sweet Potato Casserole, its sweetness contrasts with the savory flavors of the pasta.
Lastly, don’t forget the presentation; garnish with fresh basil or a sprinkle of Parmesan for an appealing visual touch. Drizzle a bit of olive oil for added richness, and serve it all with a glass of your favorite wine, making your dinner sophisticated yet approachable. For a trendy twist, check out this pink sauce pasta recipe. Enjoy your delicious masterpiece!
Print
The BEST Pink Sauce Pasta
- Total Time: 50
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
This vibrant and delicious Pink Sauce Pasta is a delightful blend of beetroot and feta, making it a unique and healthy meal option. Perfect for pasta lovers looking to try something new!
Ingredients
250 g beetroot
washed thoroughly and chopped
200 g feta
some reserved for crumbling
300 g shallots
peeled and sliced in half
6 garlic cloves
skin removed and left whole
½ lemon
juiced
300 g rigatoni
Top with basil or mint (Optional)
2 heads of broccoli
1 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
Chilli flakes
Salt and Pepper
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 200°C (390°F).
- In a baking dish, combine the chopped beetroot, shallots, and whole garlic cloves. Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt, pepper, and chilli flakes.
- Roast the vegetables in the oven for 25-30 minutes, until tender.
- Meanwhile, cook the rigatoni according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve some pasta water.
- Once the vegetables are done, remove from the oven and allow to cool slightly. Then blend them in a food processor with lemon juice and feta until smooth.
- Mix the sauce with the cooked rigatoni, adding reserved pasta water as needed to reach your desired consistency.
- Serve topped with reserved crumbled feta and fresh basil or mint if desired.
- For the broccoli, steam it until bright green and tender-crisp.
Notes
For an extra kick, you can add more chilli flakes or even a pinch of smoked paprika to the sauce. The dish can be served warm or at room temperature.
- Prep Time: 20
- Cook Time: 30
- Category: Main Course
- Method: baking
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 plate (~1/4 of recipe)
- Calories: 400 kcal
- Sugar: 7 g
- Sodium: 550 mg
- Fat: 22 g
- Saturated Fat: 10 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 45 g
- Fiber: 6 g
- Protein: 15 g
- Cholesterol: 35 mg
Keywords: Pink Sauce Pasta, beetroot pasta, vegetarian pasta, feta pasta, healthy pasta recipes
Variations of The BEST Pink Sauce Pasta:
The BEST Pink Sauce Pasta is a versatile dish, and you can easily adapt it to suit your taste preferences. For a twist, consider adding protein like grilled chicken or shrimp. Not only does this boost flavor, but it also enhances nutritional value. If you’re feeling adventurous, try incorporating vegetables, such as spinach or sun-dried tomatoes, for added texture and color.
Additionally, you can experiment with cheese choices. A sprinkle of parmesan adds a rich depth, while mozzarella creates a creamy layer. For those who love spices, a pinch of red pepper flakes will give your pink sauce pasta a delightful kick.
If you’re interested in complementary recipes, check out our Creamy Tuscan Chicken Pasta, which pairs beautifully alongside this dish. Overall, variations in ingredients not only provide variety but also make each serving of The BEST Pink Sauce Pasta a unique experience.
Storage tips for The BEST Pink Sauce Pasta:
Storing The BEST Pink Sauce Pasta properly ensures its delightful flavor and creaminess last longer. Begin by allowing the pasta to cool at room temperature for about 30 minutes. This prevents condensation from forming, which can make the sauce watery. Transfer the pasta to an airtight container; this step is crucial for maintaining its taste and texture. You can refrigerate it for up to 3 days.
For longer storage, consider freezing your pink sauce pasta. Divide portions into freezer-safe bags, removing excess air before sealing. It’s best to consume frozen pasta within 2-3 months for optimal quality. When you’re ready to enjoy your delicious dish again, thaw it overnight in the fridge. Reheat gently on the stovetop or microwave, adding a splash of cream or milk to restore the sauce’s original creaminess.
For more delightful recipes to enjoy, check out this Creamy Tuscan Chicken Pasta that pairs wonderfully with a variety of sauces.
Nutritional Information for The BEST Pink Sauce Pasta:
This delicious pink sauce pasta is not only flavorful but also offers a balanced nutritional profile. A serving provides approximately 400 calories, 15g of protein, 22g of fat, and 45g of carbs. Enriched with vitamins and minerals, it’s a gratifying dish. For a healthier option, consider pairing it with a high-protein broccoli pasta for added nutrients and fiber.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
What is Pink Sauce Pasta made of?
Pink Sauce Pasta blends creamy tomato sauce and rich alfredo sauce. This delightful mix creates a vibrant color and a luscious texture, making it a favorite among pasta lovers. The combination of flavors makes it particularly appealing.
How do I make The BEST Pink Sauce Pasta?
To prepare this delicious dish, start by cooking your pasta of choice. Next, create a sauce by combining freshly crushed tomatoes, heavy cream, garlic, and parmesan cheese in a pan. Mix in seasonings like basil and oregano for depth.
Can I add protein to Pink Sauce Pasta?
Absolutely! Adding grilled chicken or sautéed shrimp can elevate the dish. For a heartier meal, consider incorporating Italian sausage, which pairs perfectly with the creamy sauce.
What sides pair well with this pasta?
A light salad, like the Best Homemade Caesar Salad Dressing, is an excellent complement. Garlic bread also offers a fantastic balance to the richness of the pasta.
Is Pink Sauce Pasta suitable for meal prep?
Yes, The BEST Pink Sauce Pasta is an excellent option for meal prepping. You can prepare larger portions and store leftovers in the fridge. Just reheat gently to maintain consistency.
Can I make Pink Sauce Pasta vegan?
Certainly! Substitute traditional cream and cheese with plant-based alternatives like cashew cream and nutritional yeast. This way, you can enjoy a creamy experience without dairy.