SPICY PASTA RECIPE

Dish Description: The Ultimate Spicy Pasta

This Spicy Pasta is a true comfort food masterpiece that will dance on your palate. Imagine a vibrant, crimson tomato sauce, thickened to perfection with heavy cream and made fiery with crushed red pepper flakes. It clings lovingly to every curve of the coiled pasta (we recommend cavatappi or macaroni), creating a perfect marriage of texture and taste.

Each forkful is a rich, satisfying experience, starting with the creamy sweetness of the tomato base and then building into a lingering, satisfying heat. Finished with a touch of sharp Parmesan cheese and a sprinkle of fresh, fragrant parsley, this pasta is a symphony of flavors—decadent, bold, and utterly irresistible. It’s perfect for a cozy weeknight meal or for entertaining friends who love a little heat.

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The Recipe: Spicy Tomato and Cream Pasta

This recipe serves 4 people.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb (450g) cavatappi or macaroni pasta

• 1 tablespoon olive oil

• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter

• 1 small yellow onion, finely diced

• 3 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 (6 oz) can tomato paste

• 1 cup heavy cream

• 1/2 cup reserved pasta water

• 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (adjust to your spice level)

• 1/2 teaspoon salt, to taste

• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus extra for serving

• 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped

Instructions:

1. Boil the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to the package directions for al dente. Before draining, reserve 1 cup of the starchy pasta water. Drain the pasta and set aside.

2. Aromatics: In a large skillet or pan, melt the butter with the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook until soft and translucent, about 5-7 minutes. Add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes, cooking for another 60 seconds until fragrant.

3. The Base: Add the tomato paste to the skillet. Cook, stirring constantly, for 2-3 minutes until the paste is deep red and slightly caramelized.

4. Create the Sauce: Slowly pour in the heavy cream and 1/2 cup of the reserved pasta water. Whisk together until the sauce is smooth, creamy, and simmering. Let it cook for another 2-3 minutes to thicken slightly. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

5. Assemble: Add the cooked pasta directly into the sauce. Toss and stir until the pasta is completely and evenly coated. If the sauce is too thick, add more of the reserved pasta water, one tablespoon at a time, until you reach your desired consistency.

6. Finish and Serve: Remove from heat. Stir in the Parmesan cheese until melted and combined. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary. Serve immediately, garnished with a sprinkle of fresh parsley and extra Parmesan cheese on top.

Enjoy your spicy and creamy pasta creation! For a perfect pairing, serve with a simple green salad and some crusty garlic bread.