GIGI HADID PASTA
Calling all pasta lovers! Craving that creamy, spicy goodness associated with Gigi Hadid's famous pasta dish? Hold the vodka, because we're making a version that's just as impressive, but even easier!
This recipe is your ticket to a flavor explosion in under 30 minutes. It's the perfect weeknight dinner that's guaranteed to impress anyone at your table, from family to friends.
WHAT YOU’LL NEED:
16 oz rigatoni pasta or penne
1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil
1 tablespoon fresh garlic finely minced
2/3 cup tomato paste
1 1/3 cup heavy cream
2 teaspoons red pepper flakes or to taste
2 teaspoons dried basil
salt and pepper to taste
1/2 cup freshly grated parmesan more to taste
2 tablespoons unsalted butter
pasta water
optional garnishes: finely chopped parsley and red pepper flakes
THE PROCESS:
Step 1: Pasta Party Prep
Boil Brigade: Fill a large pot with water, add a generous pinch of salt, and crank up the heat to get it boiling. Once it's reached a rolling boil, toss in your favorite pasta and cook according to the package instructions. Don't forget to reserve at least 1 cup of that starchy pasta water before draining - it's magic sauce thickener later!
Step 2: The Sauce Symphony
Sizzle City: Grab a saucepan and heat some olive oil over medium heat. Once it's shimmering, toss in the garlic and cook until fragrant (about 30 seconds).
Tomato Time: Add the tomato paste and cook with the garlic for another 4-5 minutes. Watch as the tomato paste transforms from a bright red to a rich, reddish brown - this step mellows out its acidity for a smoother sauce.
Cream Dream: Pour in the heavy cream and stir it in until everything is beautifully combined. Let it simmer for a couple of minutes, like a creamy magic potion coming together.
Spice it Up: Now for the flavor fiesta! Add some red pepper flakes (adjust the amount to your spice preference!), dried basil, salt, and black pepper. Give it a good stir to distribute the seasonings evenly.
Cheese Nirvana: Grated parmesan, here you come! Toss it in with the sauce along with a pat of butter. Finally, slowly add 1/2 cup of that reserved pasta water while whisking constantly. This is where the sauce transforms into a luxuriously creamy masterpiece. Feel free to add a little more pasta water if you crave an even silkier texture.
Step 3: The Grand Finale
Pasta Paradise: Add your perfectly cooked pasta to the creamy sauce and toss everything together until it's evenly coated.
FINISH IT OFF WITH:
For an extra layer of flavor and visual appeal, top your pasta with more grated parmesan, a sprinkle of chopped fresh parsley, and a pinch of chili flakes (if you're feeling fiery!).