Description
This Radiatore Pasta in Creamy Sauce recipe features ridged radiatore pasta cooked to al dente perfection and coated in a luscious, silky sauce made from garlic, shallots, white wine, heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, and butter. Garnished with fresh parsley, this quick and easy Italian main course offers a comforting, flavorful dinner ideal for vegetarians seeking a rich yet simple meal.
Ingredients
Scale
Pasta
- 12 oz radiatore pasta
Sauce
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 small shallot, finely chopped
- 1/2 cup dry white wine (optional)
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)
Instructions
- Cook the pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the radiatore pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta and set aside, reserving 1/2 cup of the pasta cooking water for later use.
- Sauté aromatics: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and finely chopped shallot, sautéing for 2 to 3 minutes until fragrant and softened but not browned.
- Deglaze with wine: If using, pour in the dry white wine and let it simmer for 2 to 3 minutes to reduce slightly and concentrate the flavors.
- Make the creamy sauce: Lower the heat and stir in the heavy cream, grated Parmesan cheese, salt, black pepper, and crushed red pepper flakes. Let the sauce simmer gently for 3 to 5 minutes until it thickens slightly.
- Finish the sauce: Stir in the tablespoon of unsalted butter to add silkiness and richness to the sauce.
- Toss pasta in sauce: Add the drained radiatore pasta to the skillet. If needed, add a splash of reserved pasta water to loosen the sauce. Toss everything together until the pasta is evenly coated with the creamy sauce.
- Serve: Plate the pasta immediately, garnishing with chopped fresh parsley and additional grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Notes
- Radiatore’s ridged shape is perfect for holding onto creamy sauces effectively.
- Add sautéed mushrooms, fresh spinach, or grilled chicken to make this dish heartier.
- If preferred, substitute the white wine with vegetable broth to keep it non-alcoholic and add depth to the sauce.
