Rose Pasta with Creamy Pink Sauce

Name: Rose Pasta with Creamy Pink Sauce
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 400g rose pasta; Salt, for boiling; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 400g canned crushed tomatoes; 200ml heavy cream; 1 teaspoon dried oregano; Salt and pepper, to taste; 50g fresh basil, chopped; Zest of 1 lemon; Parmesan cheese, grated; Fresh basil leaves

Highlighted under: Global Flavors

When I first decided to create Rose Pasta with Creamy Pink Sauce, I was drawn to the stunning color and decadent flavor it promised. I love how the blend of tomatoes and cream transforms traditional pasta into a romantic dish fit for any occasion. As I cooked, the aroma of garlic and herbs wafted through the kitchen, leaving my family eagerly anticipating dinner. It’s a comfort food that not only satisfies the palate but also pleases the eyes, proving that we truly eat with our senses.

Created by

Nora Ellis

Last updated on 2026-01-07T11:37:16.767Z

Creating Rose Pasta with Creamy Pink Sauce was an adventurous experience. I wanted to find the perfect balance between richness and freshness, and I discovered that the inclusion of fresh basil and a hint of lemon zest adds the perfect touch. These elements brighten the dish and elevate the creamy texture, making every bite memorable.

My experimentation with different pasta shapes revealed that the spiral shapes not only hold the sauce better but also look much more appealing on the plate. Presentation is key, after all, so I serve it with a sprinkle of parmesan and a sprinkle of pepper to make it truly stand out.

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Visually stunning dish that impresses at any dinner party
Lush creamy sauce with an irresistible blend of flavors
Quick and easy to prepare, perfect for busy weeknights

      

Choosing the Right Pasta

Rose pasta is not only visually appealing but also contributes to the overall texture of the dish. Its unique shape and ridges help capture the creamy pink sauce, ensuring every bite is full of flavor. If rose pasta isn't available, you can substitute it with any short pasta like penne or fusilli, but make sure they have enough surface area to hold the sauce. Just keep in mind that cooking times may vary slightly, so always check the package instructions.

When boiling the pasta, the key is to use a large pot and ample salted water. This prevents the pasta from sticking together and enhances the flavor. A good rule of thumb is to add 1-2 tablespoons of salt to a pot of water for every 4-5 quarts. This might seem like a lot, but it’s essential for well-seasoned pasta that complements the creamy sauce beautifully.

Mastering the Creamy Sauce

The sauce for this recipe hinges on the balance between the acidity of the tomatoes and the richness of the cream. After cooking the crushed tomatoes, you may notice the sauce appears watery; be patient! As you add the cream, the sauce will thicken considerably. It's important to keep the heat at medium to avoid curdling the cream. If necessary, reduce the heat to low once the cream is added, stirring continuously until you achieve a glossy, unified sauce.

Incorporating fresh herbs at the end of cooking not only brightens the dish but also adds layers of fresh flavor. I recommend using fresh basil, as its aromatic sweetness beautifully offsets the savory components of the sauce. Feel free to explore variations with a hint of spice by adding crushed red pepper flakes along with the garlic or experimenting with different herbs like thyme or parsley.

Ingredients

For the Pasta

400g rose pasta
Salt, for boiling

For the Sauce

2 tablespoons olive oil
3 cloves garlic, minced
400g canned crushed tomatoes
200ml heavy cream
1 teaspoon dried oregano
Salt and pepper, to taste
50g fresh basil, chopped
Zest of 1 lemon

For Garnish

Parmesan cheese, grated
Fresh basil leaves

Instructions

Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the rose pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water, then drain and set aside.

Make the Sauce

In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant. Stir in crushed tomatoes, seasoning with oregano, salt, and pepper. Cook for 5 minutes.

Combine Pasta and Sauce

Reduce the heat and pour in the heavy cream, stirring well. Add the cooked pasta and toss to coat. If the sauce is too thick, gradually mix in reserved pasta water until the desired consistency is reached.

Finish and Serve

Mix in chopped basil and lemon zest for added flavor. Serve hot, garnishing with grated Parmesan and fresh basil leaves.

Pro Tips

For an extra touch of flavor, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce for a subtle heat.

Storing and Reheating

If you have leftovers, store the rose pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To keep the pasta from becoming mushy, it's best to store the sauce and pasta separately if possible. Reheating can be done on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of reserved pasta water to help bring back the creamy consistency. Stir gently to prevent sticking and heat until warmed through, around 5-7 minutes.

For longer storage, consider freezing the pasta and sauce. You can freeze the sauce in a freezer-safe container for up to three months. When ready to use, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before reheating. Cook fresh pasta when ready to serve to maintain the ideal texture. This approach ensures a delightful dinner that tastes freshly made.

Variations and Additions

You can easily personalize this dish by adding proteins like grilled chicken, shrimp, or sautéed mushrooms to enhance both flavor and nutrition. Cook your protein separately and mix it into the pasta and sauce just before serving to ensure everything is hot and combines well. This turns the dish into a hearty meal that's more filling and satisfying.

Another variation is to incorporate vegetables such as spinach, zucchini, or bell peppers. Sauté them in the skillet with garlic before adding the tomatoes to create a more vibrant and nutritious sauce. This not only adds a pop of color but also boosts the dish's health benefits while maintaining the creamy elegance of the overall presentation.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use a different type of pasta?

Absolutely! You can use any pasta shape you enjoy, but remember that long shapes like spaghetti or linguine will coat differently than twisted shapes.

→ Is there a substitute for heavy cream?

Yes, you can use half-and-half for a lighter sauce, or even a plant-based cream for a dairy-free option.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth to loosen the sauce.

→ Can I freeze the sauce?

Yes, the sauce can be frozen for up to 2 months. Thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.