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 of pasta (penne or fusilli); 2 tablespoons olive oil; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 can (400g) crushed tomatoes; 200ml heavy cream; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh basil leaves, for garnish; Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving

Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts

I recently developed a fondness for colorful dishes, and this Rose Pasta with Creamy Pink Sauce has certainly stolen my heart. The combination of tender pasta and a rich, pink-hued sauce has transformed my ordinary dinner nights into enchanting culinary adventures. With a delightful mix of flavors from tomatoes and cream, this dish not only satisfies my cravings but also adds a vibrant touch to my table. It’s perfect for impressing guests or simply enjoying a cozy night in, and I can't wait for you to try it!

Created by

Rhea Bennett

Last updated on 2026-01-10T01:46:23.473Z

Every time I make this Rose Pasta, it reminds me of my cooking journey. I started experimenting with this pink sauce when I wanted to create something visually appealing yet delicious. The secret to this creamy sauce is simmering the tomatoes just right, so they offer a burst of flavor without overpowering the cream. I was amazed at how such simple ingredients could produce such a beautiful dish!

Another tip I learned is to add a touch of Parmesan at the end. It elevates the entire dish by adding a nutty depth, making every bite delectable. When I serve it, my friends and family can’t help but marvel at the vibrant color and enticing aroma. It truly feels like a celebration on the plate!

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        The stunning rose hue makes every plate a work of art
A perfect balance of flavors that dance on your palate
Quick to prepare, making it a suitable choice for busy weeknights

      

The Importance of Fresh Ingredients

Using the freshest ingredients is crucial for the best flavor in your Rose Pasta with Creamy Pink Sauce. I recommend using ripe, quality tomatoes, whether fresh or canned; they should have a vibrant color and juicy texture. Canned crushed tomatoes can work wonders, but opt for brands that don’t have added preservatives. For the best results, look for heavy cream that contains no stabilizers, as this will give your sauce a luxurious texture and rich mouthfeel.

Basil is another key player in this dish, not only for garnish but also for flavor. Fresh basil leaves should be fragrant and bright green, as wilted or brown leaves will detract from the dish's overall appeal. If you can't find fresh basil, you can substitute it with a smaller amount of dried basil, but remember that fresh herbs deliver a much more vibrant flavor profile.

Perfecting the Creamy Sauce

When preparing your sauce, it's essential to achieve the right consistency. After adding the heavy cream to the tomato mixture, stir continuously over low heat to prevent curdling. You want the sauce to become glossy and slightly thickened—this typically takes about five minutes. If the sauce seems too thin, let it simmer a bit longer or add a spoonful of grated Parmesan to naturally thicken it while enhancing the flavor.

Taste is subjective, so don't shy away from seasoning your sauce. Adjust the salt and pepper levels according to your palate; a pinch of sugar can counteract acidity if needed. Additionally, if you prefer a hint of heat, a pinch of red pepper flakes can transform your creamy sauce into a spicy delight without overwhelming the other flavors.

Ingredients

Gather these fresh ingredients for a delightful meal:

Ingredients for Rose Pasta with Creamy Pink Sauce

400g of pasta (penne or fusilli)
2 tablespoons olive oil
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 can (400g) crushed tomatoes
200ml heavy cream
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh basil leaves, for garnish
Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving

Ensure you have everything on hand to make this vibrant dish!

Instructions

Follow these easy steps to create your delightful Rose Pasta:

Cook the Pasta

In a large pot of salted boiling water, cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Prepare the Sauce

In a pan, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant. Pour in the crushed tomatoes, season with salt and pepper, and let simmer for 10 minutes.

Create the Creamy Mixture

Stir in the heavy cream into the tomato mixture, incorporating it well. Let the sauce cook for an additional 5 minutes to thicken slightly.

Combine Pasta and Sauce

Add the cooked pasta to the sauce, tossing to coat evenly. Cook everything together for an additional 2 minutes on low heat.

Serve

Plate the Rose Pasta, garnishing with fresh basil and a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese. Enjoy your delightful creation!

Feel free to pair this dish with a light salad or garlic bread!

Pro Tips

For a touch of elegance, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce for some heat or substituting half of the heavy cream with mascarpone for an even creamier texture.

Meal Prep and Storage Tips

Rose Pasta with Creamy Pink Sauce is quite amenable to meal prepping. You can cook the pasta and prepare the sauce a day ahead. Store both components separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator, and when ready to indulge, simply reheat the sauce on low heat while boiling fresh pasta. This method keeps everything fresh while allowing flavors to blend beautifully. If stored properly, the dish can last up to 3 days in the fridge without losing its vibrant flavors.

If you're looking to freeze the sauce, pour it into a freezer-safe container once cooled. It can be frozen for up to three months. When you're ready to enjoy it again, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before reheating. I recommend adding a splash of cream during reheating to restore its silky texture.

Flavor Variations and Add-Ins

Feel free to get creative with your Rose Pasta! For a protein boost, you can add grilled chicken or shrimp to the dish. Simply sauté them in the olive oil before adding the garlic, then set aside after cooking and incorporate them back into the pasta when mixing with the sauce. This not only enriches the meal but provides a hearty, satisfying twist.

Vegetarians can enrich the pasta by adding sautéed vegetables like spinach, zucchini, or bell peppers. They contribute additional taste as well as color. I particularly love tossing in fresh spinach right at the end of cooking; it wilts beautifully and maintains its bright green color, enhancing the dish's visual appeal while adding nutrients.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use a different type of pasta?

Absolutely! Any pasta shape you prefer will work well, such as spaghetti or farfalle.

→ Is there a vegetarian option for this recipe?

Yes, simply ensure that the Parmesan is vegetarian-friendly or substitute it with a non-dairy cheese.

→ How can I store leftover pasta?

Store the leftover pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove with a splash of water.

→ Can I freeze the creamy pink sauce?

Yes, you can freeze the sauce before mixing it with the pasta. Make sure it's in a freezer-safe container, and consume it within 2 months.