Spicy Pasta
Turn up the heat on your weeknight dinner with this irresistible Spicy Pasta, a quick and flavorful dish that combines the smoky kick of red chili flakes with the richness of a creamy tomato-based sauce. Perfectly cooked penne or spaghetti is tossed with fragrant garlic, sweet cherry tomatoes, and a touch of tomato paste for a robust, tangy flavor. A splash of heavy cream adds a silky finish, while a sprinkle of parmesan cheese and fresh basil rounds out the dish with savory depth and freshness. Customize this easy 30-minute pasta recipe with tender shredded chicken for a protein boost, making it an ideal choice for busy nights or casual entertaining. Whether you're a fan of bold flavors or just looking for a comforting yet vibrant meal, this Spicy Pasta is guaranteed to please!
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Recipe Information
Ingredients
- 400 grams pasta (penne or spaghetti)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 teaspoons red chili flakes
- 300 grams cherry tomatoes, halved
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 200 grams cooked chicken, shredded (optional)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 0.5 teaspoon pepper
- 120 milliliters heavy cream
- 50 grams parmesan cheese, grated
- 10 grams fresh basil leaves, chopped
- 2 liters water (to boil pasta)
Instructions
Bring a large pot of water to a boil, add a pinch of salt, and cook the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water, then drain the rest and set the pasta aside.
In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.
Add the red chili flakes to the skillet and stir for about 30 seconds to release their flavor.
Add the cherry tomatoes and tomato paste, stirring to combine. Cook for 5-7 minutes, allowing the tomatoes to soften and release their juices.
If using cooked chicken, add it to the skillet at this stage and stir to combine.
Season the mixture with salt and pepper, adjusting to taste.
Lower the heat and stir in the heavy cream. Cook for 2-3 minutes until the sauce is smooth and creamy.
Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss to coat in the sauce. If the sauce is too thick, gradually add the reserved pasta water until the desired consistency is achieved.
Sprinkle grated parmesan cheese over the pasta and stir until melted and well incorporated.
Garnish with fresh basil leaves and serve immediately.
Nutrition Facts
Calories |
1921 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 95.0 g | 122% | |
| Saturated Fat | 41.3 g | 206% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 2.7 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 342 mg | 114% | |
| Sodium | 3440 mg | 150% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 146.9 g | 53% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 13.4 g | 48% | |
| Total Sugars | 14.5 g | ||
| Protein | 111.3 g | 223% | |
| Vitamin D | 0.0 mcg | 0% | |
| Calcium | 679 mg | 52% | |
| Iron | 8.2 mg | 46% | |
| Potassium | 1838 mg | 39% | |
*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.
