Pasta with Rosé Sauce

Name: Pasta with Rosé Sauce
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4 servings
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 300 g penne pasta; 2 tbsp olive oil; 1 onion (finely chopped); 2 cloves garlic (minced); 400 g canned tomatoes (crushed); 1/2 cup heavy cream; 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese (grated); 1 tsp dried basil; 1 tsp sugar; to taste salt and pepper

30 min 4 servings Easy

All Recipes

Indulge in this creamy and luscious pasta with rosé sauce, blending the richness of cream with the tang of tomatoes.

Prep

10 min

Cook

20 min

Total

30 min

Servings

Difficulty

Easy

Pasta with rosé sauce is a delightful dish that combines the creamy texture of cream sauce with the tangy, rich flavour of tomatoes. It's a versatile dish that can be served for a cozy family dinner or an elegant meal with friends. The secret to a perfect rosé sauce lies in balancing the creaminess with the acidity of tomatoes, creating a harmonious blend that coats every strand of pasta perfectly. This recipe is simple yet sophisticated, making it a wonderful addition to your pasta repertoire.

Instructions

Cook the pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the penne pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water and drain the rest.

Pro tip: Stir the pasta occasionally to prevent it from sticking together.

Sauté onions and garlic

In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1 minute.

Pro tip: Be careful not to burn the garlic as it can turn bitter.

Add tomatoes and seasonings

Stir in the crushed tomatoes, dried basil, and sugar. Simmer for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens slightly.

Pro tip: Adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper to your taste.

Incorporate cream

Reduce the heat to low and gently stir in the heavy cream until well combined. Continue to simmer for 5 more minutes.

Pro tip: For a silkier texture, whisk the cream into the sauce slowly.

Finish with cheese

Add the grated Parmesan cheese to the sauce and stir until melted and smooth.

Pro tip: Use freshly grated Parmesan for the best flavour.

Combine pasta and sauce

Add the cooked pasta to the sauce, tossing to coat evenly. If the sauce is too thick, add a little reserved pasta water to reach the desired consistency.

Pro tip: Serve immediately with extra Parmesan and fresh basil if desired.

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Tips & Tricks

Use fresh cream and quality canned tomatoes for the best flavour.
Stir the pasta frequently to prevent sticking.
Adjust the sauce consistency with reserved pasta water if needed.
For added richness, use freshly grated Parmesan cheese.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best pasta for sauce rosée?

Penne is commonly used for its ability to hold sauce, but any shape like fusilli or rigatoni works well.

Can I make rosé sauce ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the sauce up to three days in advance and reheat it gently before serving.

How can I thicken my rosé sauce?

If the sauce is too thin, simmer it longer to reduce or add a bit more cream and Parmesan cheese.

What kind of cream is used in rosé sauce?

Heavy cream is preferred for its rich texture, but you can use half-and-half for a lighter option.

Can I add meat to the pasta with rosé sauce?

Yes, adding cooked chicken or shrimp can make it a heartier meal.

Is rosé sauce the same as vodka sauce?

No, rosé sauce doesn’t contain vodka. It's a mix of tomato sauce and cream, while vodka sauce includes vodka for a distinct flavour.

Serving Suggestions

Serve your pasta with rosé sauce with a side of garlic bread or a fresh garden salad for a complete meal. Pair it with a crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc to enhance the flavours. This dish can be made ahead and stored in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stove, adding a splash of cream or water to loosen the sauce, if necessary.