There’s something incredibly comforting about a bowl of pasta, especially when it’s infused with rich and creamy flavors. This Creamy Tuscan Pasta is so good, you’ll want to make it again and again. With a delightful combination of shallots, roasted red peppers, garlic, and a creamy tomato-based sauce, this dish is sure to become a family favorite. Let’s dive into the recipe and see how easy it is to create this delicious meal.
Ingredients
- 2 tbsp Butter
- 1 Shallot, Diced
- 1/2 cup Roasted Red Peppers, Chopped
- 3 Cloves Garlic, Minced
- 2 tbsp Tomato Paste
- 1 tsp Paprika
- 1 tsp Oregano
- 1/2 tsp Salt
- 1 1/2 cups Heavy Cream
- 1 cup Spinach
- 1 cup Parmesan Cheese, Grated
- 1 cup Cherry Tomatoes, Halved
- 1/2 lb Rigatoni Pasta
- Optional: Cooked Chicken Breast, Sliced
- Garnish: Fresh Parsley, Chopped; Extra Parmesan Cheese
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Cook the Pasta
Begin by cooking the rigatoni in a large pot of salted boiling water until al dente, according to package instructions. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water, then drain the pasta and set it aside.
2. Sauté the Vegetables
In a large pan, melt the butter over medium-low heat. Add the diced shallots and chopped roasted red peppers, stirring occasionally until the shallots are translucent and softened. Add the minced garlic and cook for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
3. Create the Sauce
Stir in the tomato paste, paprika, oregano, and salt, mixing well to combine. Pour in the heavy cream, stirring continuously. The cream will start as a white color and gradually deepen to a rich reddish tone as you mix.
4. Add Spinach and Tomatoes
Add the spinach and cherry tomatoes to the pan, letting them cook for 4-5 minutes on low heat until the spinach is wilted and the tomatoes are softened.
5. Combine Everything
Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until it melts into the sauce. If using, add the cooked chicken breast slices. Finally, toss in the cooked rigatoni pasta, ensuring it is well coated with the creamy sauce. If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of the reserved pasta water to reach your desired consistency.
6. Serve and Garnish
Transfer the creamy Tuscan pasta to serving bowls. Garnish with fresh parsley and additional Parmesan cheese if desired. Enjoy!
Tips for Perfect Creamy Tuscan Pasta
- Pasta: Use any pasta shape you like, such as penne, fusilli, or farfalle.
- Cheese: Use freshly grated Parmesan cheese for the best flavor and melting quality.
- Protein: Add grilled chicken, shrimp, or tofu for extra protein.
Kitchen Equipment Needed
- Large pot for cooking pasta
- Large pan for sautéing and making the sauce
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- Colander for draining pasta
Storage and Leftovers
Store any leftover Creamy Tuscan Pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, add a splash of milk or cream to the pasta and warm it in a pan over low heat, stirring until heated through.
Variations and Swaps
- Vegetarian: Omit the chicken and add more vegetables like mushrooms, zucchini, or bell peppers.
- Vegan: Substitute the butter with olive oil, heavy cream with coconut cream, and Parmesan with nutritional yeast or a vegan cheese alternative.
- Spicy: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the sauce for a spicy kick.
Perfect Pairings
This Creamy Tuscan Pasta pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides and drinks. Here are a few suggestions:
- Garlic Bread: Serve with homemade garlic bread for a perfect combination.
- Green Salad: A fresh green salad with a light vinaigrette provides a refreshing contrast to the creamy pasta.
- White Wine: Pair with a glass of crisp white wine like Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc.
FAQs
Q: Can I use a different type of pasta? A: Absolutely! While rigatoni works well, any pasta shape can be used.
Q: Can I make this dish ahead of time? A: Yes, you can prepare the sauce ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator. Reheat the sauce and cook the pasta fresh when ready to serve.
Q: What can I use instead of heavy cream? A: Half-and-half or whole milk can be used, but the sauce may be less rich. For a dairy-free option, use coconut cream or a plant-based cream alternative.
Q: How can I make this dish gluten-free? A: Use gluten-free pasta and ensure all other ingredients, like the cheese and cream, are gluten-free.