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 (or any pasta of choice); Salt (for boiling the pasta); 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 small onion, finely chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 can (400g) crushed tomatoes; 1 cup heavy cream; 1 teaspoon dried oregano; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh basil leaves for garnish

Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts

I absolutely adore this Rose Pasta with Creamy Pink Sauce! The combination of the delicate pink sauce with beautifully shaped pasta creates a dish that's not just a feast for the taste buds but also for the eyes. I love to prepare this recipe for a cozy dinner, and the aroma that fills my kitchen while cooking is simply irresistible. It has quickly become a favorite in my household, and I can't wait to share it with you. Trust me, every bite is like a little hug on a plate!

Created by

Hayley Morton

Last updated on 2026-01-10T01:22:09.391Z

When I first tried making a creamy pink sauce, I was amazed at how easy it was to achieve such a vibrant color and rich flavor. Mixing together cream, tomatoes, and a hint of spice creates a satisfying sauce that beautifully coats the pasta. I always add fresh herbs at the end, which enhances the overall taste and makes the dish pop.

One tip that I highly recommend is to save a little pasta water before draining; it can help adjust the sauce's consistency. This simple trick ensures that the sauce clings perfectly to the pasta, making every bite deliciously creamy and flavorful!

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        The vibrant pink sauce is visually stunning and adds a pop of color to your table.
A perfect harmony of flavors; creamy, tangy, and just the right amount of spice.
Quick to prepare, making it an ideal weeknight dinner option.

      

The Importance of Ingredient Quality

Choosing high-quality ingredients makes a significant difference in the flavor of your Rose Pasta with Creamy Pink Sauce. Fresh garlic and a good-quality olive oil can elevate the taste, while using whole tomatoes instead of canned can enhance the sauce's richness. Always opt for heavy cream that has a higher fat content; this not only assists in creating a luscious texture but also helps prevent the sauce from curdling as it cooks.

For the pasta, while rose pasta provides a beautiful visual element, don’t hesitate to use alternatives like penne or fusilli. Just be mindful of the cooking times, as different types of pasta can vary. Whenever using a different shape, check for doneness a minute or two earlier to avoid overcooking.

Techniques for Perfect Creamy Sauce

When preparing the sauce, be attentive to the simmering process after adding the crushed tomatoes. The gentle heat should allow the flavors to meld without causing the sauce to splatter, which can create a mess on your stovetop. Maintain a simmer for about five minutes until the sauce starts to thicken and darken slightly in color, indicating that the flavors are developing well.

As you incorporate the heavy cream, stir continuously to achieve a uniformly creamy consistency. This will also help prevent any separation, ensuring that the sauce remains silky and cohesive. If the sauce looks too thick, gradually add some reserved pasta water until you reach your preferred consistency without losing that lovely creaminess.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to create your delicious Rose Pasta:

For the Pasta

400g rose pasta (or any pasta of choice)
Salt (for boiling the pasta)

For the Creamy Pink Sauce

2 tablespoons olive oil
1 small onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 can (400g) crushed tomatoes
1 cup heavy cream
1 teaspoon dried oregano
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh basil leaves for garnish

Make sure to have everything prepared before cooking for a smooth process.

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your Rose Pasta with Creamy Pink Sauce:

Cook the Pasta

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

Prepare the Sauce

In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until soft and translucent. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.

Make it Creamy

Add the crushed tomatoes and dried oregano to the skillet. Let it simmer for 5 minutes. Lower the heat and gradually stir in the heavy cream until the sauce is well combined. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Combine and Serve

Toss the cooked pasta in the creamy pink sauce, adding reserved pasta water as needed for desired consistency. Serve hot, garnished with fresh basil leaves.

Enjoy your meal with a side salad or some garlic bread!

Pro Tips

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

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

One of the best aspects of this pasta dish is its make-ahead potential. You can prepare the creamy pink sauce in advance and refrigerate it for up to three days. Simply reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally until warm, then combine it with freshly cooked pasta. Just be careful not to let it boil again, as this can affect the cream's texture.

For long-term storage, consider freezing the sauce. Store the cooled sauce in an airtight container for up to three months. When ready to enjoy, thaw in the refrigerator overnight, then reheat as mentioned. Note that fresh basil should be added just before serving to maintain its vibrant flavor and color.

Serving Suggestions and Variations

This Rose Pasta pairs beautifully with a side of garlic bread or a simple green salad for a complete meal. If you’re feeling adventurous, sprinkle some grated Parmesan or Pecorino Romano cheese right before serving, as it complements the creamy sauce superbly and adds a savory depth to the dish.

For variations, think about adding cooked chicken, sautéed shrimp, or your favorite vegetables, such as spinach or mushrooms, to the sauce. This not only enhances the dish's nutritional value but also introduces new textures and flavors to keep things interesting. Each addition should be incorporated just before tossing the pasta for a finished dish that feels fresh and vibrant.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use a different type of pasta?

Absolutely! Any pasta shape will work, but the rose pasta adds a lovely presentation.

→ Can I make the sauce ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the sauce in advance and store it in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just reheat it gently before mixing with the pasta.

→ Is it possible to make this recipe vegetarian?

Yes, this recipe is already vegetarian! Just ensure your pasta is egg-free if needed.

→ What can I serve with this pasta?

This dish pairs well with a fresh salad or crusty garlic bread for a complete meal.