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; 2 cups fresh tomatoes, diced; 1 cup heavy cream; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tablespoon olive oil; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh basil, for garnish; Parmesan cheese, for serving

Highlighted under: Exotic Inspirations Co.

I absolutely love this Rose Pasta with Creamy Pink Sauce! It’s a delightful blend of flavors that transforms a simple dinner into something special. The vibrant color and creamy texture make it a feast for the eyes and palate alike. I could enjoy this dish any night of the week, but it’s especially perfect for romantic dinners or when I want to impress guests. Each bite is a rich embrace of tomato and cream, brightened with a hint of garlic, making it unforgettable!

Created by

Adeline Morris

Last updated on 2026-01-10T02:10:14.700Z

When I first experimented with this Rose Pasta recipe, I was amazed at how the rich flavors melded together. I decided to use fresh tomatoes, creating a symphony of taste when paired with cream. To enhance the flavor, I added garlic and a sprinkle of fresh basil.

This dish has since become a staple in my kitchen. The balance of acidity from the tomatoes complements the creaminess of the sauce perfectly, and I often serve it with garlic bread on the side for a complete meal. Trust me, you won't be disappointed!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
A vibrant and visually stunning dish
Creamy sauce that envelopes each pasta strand
Easy enough for a weeknight yet elegant for special occasions

The Role of Rose Pasta

Rose pasta not only adds a stunning visual element to this dish but also offers a delightful texture that enhances the overall experience. The shape often designed with wavy edges clings beautifully to the creamy pink sauce, ensuring each bite is packed with flavor. You can find this unique pasta shape at specialty grocery stores or online, but if you’re short on time, any short pasta such as penne or fusilli would suffice, though the final presentation will be different.

When cooking rose pasta, be mindful of the cooking time indicated on the package. Typically, you’ll want to aim for 'al dente' texture, which means the pasta should be cooked through but still slightly firm to the bite. This is crucial because it will continue to cook when combined with the warm sauce, preventing it from becoming mushy. Remember to reserve a bit of the pasta water before draining; adding a splash of it to your sauce can help create a silky finish.

Enhancing Flavor with Ingredients

Fresh tomatoes play an integral role in this recipe, providing not only sweetness and acidity but also contributing to a fresher taste compared to canned options. I recommend using ripe, in-season tomatoes for the best flavor, as they will be juicier and more vibrant. If fresh tomatoes are not available, high-quality canned tomatoes would work well; just ensure to adjust the cooking time, as you’ll need less sauté time to soften them.

The heavy cream is essential for achieving the luxurious, creamy texture of the sauce. If you're looking for a lighter alternative, half-and-half can be a good substitute, though it will yield a thinner consistency. For those avoiding dairy, you could experiment with coconut milk or a cashew cream. However, each of these alternatives will lend their unique flavor, so proceed with a bit of caution to find the right balance that suits your taste.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to start your culinary adventure:

Ingredients

400g rose pasta
2 cups fresh tomatoes, diced
1 cup heavy cream
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh basil, for garnish
Parmesan cheese, for serving

Make sure you have everything ready before starting!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create your delicious Rose Pasta:

Cook the Pasta

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

Prepare the Sauce

In a skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant. Then add the diced tomatoes and cook for 5 minutes.

Combine and Simmer

Stir in the heavy cream and let it simmer for another 5 minutes. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Mix Pasta with Sauce

Add the cooked pasta to the sauce, tossing gently to coat the pasta completely with the creamy mixture. Allow it to heat through for 2 minutes.

Serve

Plate the Rose Pasta and garnish with fresh basil leaves and grated Parmesan cheese before serving.

Enjoy your delicious meal!

Pro Tips

For an extra flavor boost, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of white wine to the sauce while it simmers!

Make-Ahead and Storage Solutions

This Rose Pasta can be made ahead of time, making it a fantastic option for busy weekdays or dinner parties. You can prepare the sauce and cook the pasta fully in advance, storing them separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator. To reheat, simply warm the sauce on the stove over medium heat while adding a splash of reserved pasta water to help bring it back to its creamy consistency. Cook the pasta briefly in boiling water for 1-2 minutes until heated through before combining the two.

If you want to keep the sauce vibrant for later use, avoid adding the fresh basil until just before serving. It’s best served fresh, as basil tends to wilt and lose its bright flavor when stored. For long-term storage, consider freezing the sauce. Portion it into freezer-safe bags or containers and consume within three months for optimal flavor. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

Serving Suggestions

To elevate your plate, why not try adding a sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes or a squeeze of fresh lemon juice just before serving? These additions will enhance the flavor profile, providing a subtle kick or a refreshing brightness that cuts through the creaminess of the pasta. A side of garlic bread or a light mixed green salad dressed in vinaigrette pairs wonderfully with this dish, creating a balanced meal that isn’t overly heavy.

For a heartier version of this dish, consider adding protein options such as grilled chicken or shrimp. Simply season and cook them alongside the garlic for an additional layer of flavor in your dish. If you're looking for a meat-free option, sautéed mushrooms or spinach can provide additional texture and nutrients while keeping the dish light and satisfying.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use a different type of pasta?

Absolutely! Feel free to substitute with any pasta shape you prefer.

→ Is there a vegetarian alternative?

Yes, you can replace the heavy cream with a plant-based cream for a vegan option.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

→ Can I freeze this pasta dish?

While not recommended due to the cream sauce, you can freeze the cooked pasta separately. Just reheat when ready to serve.