Red Sauce Pasta

Welcome to our blog on the delicious and flavorful red sauce pasta recipe! In this post, we will explore how to make this classic Italian dish with a twist. This recipe is unique as it combines the rich flavors of tomato-based red sauce with a creamy white sauce, creating a delightful combination of textures and tastes. Whether you're a pasta lover or looking to try something new, this red sauce pasta recipe is sure to impress your taste buds. So, let's dive in and learn how to create this mouthwatering dish!

What Is Red Sauce Pasta?

• Red sauce pasta is a classic Italian dish that has been given an Indian twist in this recipe. It combines succulent penne pasta with a rich and creamy tomato-based sauce, flavored with Indian spices and unique seasoning. The addition of veggies like carrots, broccoli, and olives adds a burst of flavor and color to the dish, making it a hearty and satisfying meal. Whether you're craving a comforting homemade meal or looking to impress your guests, this red sauce pasta recipe is sure to be a hit!

Why You'll Love Red Sauce Pasta?

• Deliciously Creamy Texture: The combination of the creamy white sauce and the rich tomato paste creates a lusciously smooth and velvety texture that will leave you craving for more.
• Packed with Nutrients: With a variety of colorful vegetables like carrots, cucumbers, broccoli, and olives, this pasta dish is packed with essential nutrients, vitamins, and minerals that are beneficial for your overall health.
• High in Fiber: The addition of vegetables and whole grain pasta provides a good amount of fiber, which is essential for a healthy digestive system and can help in weight management.
• Rich in Antioxidants: The red sauce in the pasta contains lycopene, an antioxidant known for its potential health benefits, including reducing the risk of certain chronic diseases.
• A Comforting Meal: This red sauce pasta is not only delicious but also provides a sense of comfort, making it the perfect meal for a cozy night in.
• Versatile and Customizable: You can easily customize this pasta dish by adding your favorite veggies, protein, or cheese, making it a versatile and adaptable recipe for any occasion.

Ingredients for Red Sauce Pasta

• Penne Pasta: Provides the base for the dish and absorbs the flavors of the sauce and vegetables.
• Butter: Adds richness and a creamy texture to the white sauce.
• Garlic: Infuses the sauce with a savory and aromatic flavor.
• Tomato Paste: Gives the red sauce its intense tomato flavor and rich red color.

-Vegetables (Carrot, Cucumber, Broccoli, Sweet Corn, Olives, Jalapenos, Mushroom): Adds a variety of textures, colors, and flavors to the dish, making it more wholesome and nutritious.

• Olive Oil: Enhances the overall flavor and adds a touch of richness to the dish.

How To Make Red Sauce Pasta?

If you're a fan of Italian cuisine, you've probably indulged in a hearty bowl of red sauce pasta at some point. This classic dish is easy to make and is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner. Here's a simple recipe to create a delicious red sauce pasta that's bursting with flavor.

• Start by boiling 6 cups of water in a large pot. Once the water is boiling, add 1 tsp of salt and 100g of penne pasta. Cook the pasta until it is al dente, then drain the water and rinse the pasta with cold water. Set it aside.
• While the pasta is cooking, prepare the vegetables by cutting them into round shapes. This includes carrots, cucumbers, blanched broccoli, sweet corn, olives, jalapenos (if using), and canned mushrooms.
• In a saucepan, melt 1 tbsp of butter and add 1 tbsp of olive oil. Add finely chopped garlic and sauté until golden brown. Then, add 1&1/2 tbsp of corn flour or all-purpose flour and whisk well. Gradually add 1&1/2 cups of cold milk, whisking continuously until the sauce thickens. Season with salt, pepper, and dry oregano. Set the white sauce aside.
• In a separate pan or wok, heat 2 tbsp of olive oil over high heat. Add the prepared vegetables and stir-fry for a couple of minutes. Then, add 1&1/2 tbsp of store-bought tomato paste, a pinch of salt, and 1 tsp of red chili flakes. Sauté the vegetables until they are half cooked.
• Combine the white sauce with the cooked pasta, and stir until well combined.
• Finally, sprinkle 1/2 tsp of dry oregano over the pasta and serve it hot.

By following these steps, you can create a delicious red sauce pasta that's filled with wholesome vegetables and flavorful sauce. Enjoy this comforting meal for a cozy night in or impress your dinner guests with this homemade Italian favorite.

Serving Suggestions

• Garlic Bread: Red sauce pasta pairs perfectly with garlic bread. The crispy, garlicky bread is the perfect complement to the rich and flavorful pasta.
• Caesar Salad: A classic Caesar salad with fresh romaine lettuce, crunchy croutons, and tangy Caesar dressing is a great addition to the pasta dish. The crispness of the salad provides a contrast to the creamy pasta.
• Grilled Vegetables: Serve the red sauce pasta with a side of grilled vegetables such as zucchini, bell peppers, and onions. The smoky flavors of the grilled veggies add a nice touch to the meal.
• Caprese Salad: The simplicity of a Caprese salad, with ripe tomatoes, fresh mozzarella, basil, and a drizzle of balsamic glaze, is a great way to balance the richness of the pasta.
• Breadsticks: Another great option is to serve the pasta with breadsticks for a quick and easy side. The breadsticks are perfect for soaking up the delicious red sauce.
• Fruit Salad: For a refreshing side, consider serving a fruit salad with the pasta. A mix of seasonal fruits like strawberries, kiwi, and pineapple adds a burst of freshness to the meal.

Tips for Making Red Sauce Pasta

Furthermore, I would like to share some of my suggestions for making perfect spicy red sauce pasta.

• Firstly, cook pasta with plenty of water with salt and cook the pasta until they are springy and chewy. Do not take it to the point of being mushy. Then drain all the water and wash it in cold water.
• Secondly, for the sauce, add butter, flour and milk in the proportion of 1:1.5:1.5, then you will get a right consistency.
• Then try to cook the vegetables over high heat until crunchy. Don’t overcook.
• Then, adjust the tomato paste and red chili flakes as you like.
• Finally, mix together the vegetables, white sauce and pasta until well combined and serve hot!

Variations for Red Sauce Pasta

• Veggie Delight: Experiment with a variety of vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or cherry tomatoes to add a burst of color and flavor to your pasta dish. You can also try adding spinach or kale for an extra nutrient boost.
• Protein Power: For a heartier meal, consider adding some protein like grilled chicken, shrimp, or tofu to the pasta. This will make the dish more filling and satisfying.
• Cheesy Twist: Elevate the flavors by adding a sprinkle of parmesan or mozzarella cheese over the pasta. You can also try mixing in some ricotta or cream cheese for a creamy and indulgent texture.
• Spicy Kick: If you like a little heat, consider adding some chopped fresh chili peppers or a drizzle of hot sauce to the pasta. This will give it a spicy kick that's sure to tantalize your taste buds.
• Herb Infusion: Get creative with the flavors by experimenting with different herbs. Try adding fresh basil, thyme, or parsley to give the pasta a refreshing and aromatic touch.
• Gluten-Free Option: If you're looking for a gluten-free alternative, you can use gluten-free pasta and substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour like almond flour or rice flour. This way, everyone can enjoy this delicious pasta dish.

How to Store Red Sauce Pasta

• Storing Cooked Pasta: After cooking the red sauce pasta, allow it to cool completely before storing it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. This will help maintain its freshness and prevent it from drying out.
• Storing Vegetables: Cut vegetables like carrots, cucumber, and broccoli should be stored in separate airtight containers to keep them fresh and crunchy. Store olives, jalapenos, and canned mushrooms in their original packaging or transfer them to airtight containers.
• Storing White Sauce: Any leftover white sauce can be stored in a sealed container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Make sure to stir well before reheating.
• Storing Tomato Paste: Transfer any unused tomato paste to an airtight container and store it in the refrigerator. Use within a week for the best flavor.
• Reheating Pasta: When reheating pasta, add a splash of water or milk to the pasta to prevent it from drying out. Heat it in the microwave or on the stovetop until it is hot all the way through.
• Freezing Leftovers: Red sauce pasta can be frozen in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before reheating. Remember to store individual components separately to maintain their flavors and textures.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I use any type of pasta for red sauce pasta?

• Yes, you can use any type of pasta for red sauce pasta, such as Penne, Fusilli, or Spaghetti. Different types of pasta may require adjustments in cooking time, so keep an eye on the texture while cooking.

What can I use as a substitute for tomato paste?

• If you don't have tomato paste, you can substitute it with tomato sauce or puree. Keep in mind that the consistency and flavor may vary slightly, so adjust the quantity according to your taste preference.

Can I make this pasta dish without vegetables?

• Absolutely, you can definitely make red sauce pasta without vegetables and stick to just the pasta and the sauce. However, adding vegetables not only enhances the flavor and nutritional value but also adds color and texture to the dish.

How can I make the pasta less spicy?

• If you prefer a milder flavor, you can reduce the amount of red chili flakes or omit them altogether. You can also adjust the quantity of jalapenos or skip them if you don't want the pasta to be too spicy.

Can I make the white sauce ahead of time?

• Yes, you can make the white sauce ahead of time and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. When ready to use, reheat the sauce gently and stir well to restore the creamy texture.

Can I add meat to the red sauce pasta?

• Absolutely, you can add cooked meat like chicken, sausage, or shrimp to the red sauce pasta for a protein boost. Simply cook the meat separately and add it to the pasta before serving.

Recipe Card

Red Sauce Pasta

Red Sauce Pasta 2017-02-20 09:38:54

Serves 2                Print        

Prep Time   00:05        

Cook Time   00:25        

Total Time   00:30                      

Ingredients

• 100g penne pasta
• 6 cups water
• 1 tsp salt          

For sauce

• 1 tbsp butter
• 1&1/2 tbsp corn flour or all purpose flour
• 1&1/2 cups cold milk
• 1 tbsp garlic pieces (finely chopped)
• 1/2 tsp oregano (dry)
• 1/4 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp black pepper
• 1 tsp red chili flakes
• 1&1/2 tbsp store bought tomato paste          

Vegetables

• 1 small carrot
• 1/2 cucumber
• 1 medium piece of broccoli blanched and cut into small pieces
• 2 tbsp sweet corn
• 7  olives (black and green)
• 5  jalapenos (optional)
• 2 tbsp canned mushroom
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• A pinch of salt or as needed          

For garnishing

• 1/2 tsp dry oregano

Instructions:          

How to cook pasta

• In a large pot, bring water to a boil, cook pasta with salt until al dente, tender but still slightly firm. Then drain the water and rinse with cold tap water and keep it aside.
• Meanwhile, Cut  all the vegetables in round shape and keep it aside          

How to prepare sauce

• Melt the butter and oil in a saucepan, when it melts, add garlic pieces and saute till they turn into golden brown.
• Then add corn flour and whisk well.
• When it turns into golden brown, add milk and whisk continuously.
• When the sauce becomes thick, add pepper, salt and oregano. Then remove from the heat and set aside.          

How to prepare spicy red sauce pasta

• Meanwhile, heat a pan or wok over high heat, add olive oil, when it heats, add all the vegetables and give a quick stir.
• Pour 3 tbsp. of water and stir continuously for about 2 mins or until the veggies are half cooked. Then add tomato paste, a pinch of salt and red chili flakes, saute well.
• Now combine the white sauce and pasta to the pan and stir until well combined.
• Finally, sprinkle 1/2 tsp of oregano over the pasta and serve it hot. Enjoy!!!         

By Santhi Therese    The Indian Claypot

https://theindianclaypot.com/