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Italian Pink Sauce – Rose Pasta Recipe – Creamy, Comforting & Perfect for Pasta Night

Italian Pink Sauce, also known as Rose Pasta Sauce, is the ultimate fusion of tangy tomato sauce and luxurious creaminess. The “pink” comes from blending rich tomato base with silky heavy cream, creating a dreamy sauce that clings perfectly to pasta. This dish is ideal for cozy dinners, special date nights, or when you simply crave something indulgent yet easy to make. With garlic, onion, oregano, and Italian seasoning, every bite bursts with authentic Mediterranean flavors.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Servings: 3 servings
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Fruits & Vegetables:
  • 1 garlic clove minced
  • 1 onion finely chopped
  • 2 tsp oregano dried
Canned & Preserved Goods:
  • 1 tbsp tomato paste
Condiments:
  • 2 cups tomato sauce
Pasta & Cereals:
  • 1 portion of your choice of pasta penne, fettuccine, spaghetti, etc.
Culinary Aids & Spices:
  • 1 tsp Italian seasoning
  • 1 red pepper chopped or sliced
  • Salt and pepper to taste
Dairy:
  • 1 tbsp butter
  • ½ cup heavy cream
  • Parmesan cheese for serving
Other:
  • Fresh cilantro chopped (for garnish)

Equipment

  • Large pot (for boiling pasta)
  • Colander for draining pasta
  • Large skillet or saucepan
  • Wooden spoon or spatula
  • Cutting board & knife
  • Measuring cups & spoons

Method
 

Step 1: Cook the Pasta
  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
  2. Add your pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente.
  3. Reserve ½ cup of pasta water, then drain the rest and set pasta aside.
Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics
  1. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat.
  2. Add onion and cook until soft and translucent.
  3. Stir in garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
Step 3: Build the Sauce
  1. Add red pepper and cook for 2 minutes.
  2. Stir in tomato paste and cook for 1 minute to deepen the flavor.
  3. Add tomato sauce, oregano, and Italian seasoning.
  4. Season with salt and pepper, then simmer for 5–7 minutes.
Step 4: Make it Pink
  1. Lower the heat and slowly stir in the heavy cream, mixing until the sauce turns a rich pink color.
  2. If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of reserved pasta water.
Step 5: Combine & Serve
  1. Toss cooked pasta into the sauce until well-coated.
  2. Serve hot, topped with Parmesan cheese and fresh cilantro.

Notes

🧊 Storage & Reheating
Refrigerator:
Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Reheating:
Warm gently in a pan with a splash of milk or cream to restore creaminess.
Freezing:
Not recommended, as cream sauces can separate after thawing.
🥄 Variations
Spicy Pink Sauce: Add chili flakes for extra heat.
Protein Boost: Stir in grilled chicken, shrimp, or sautéed mushrooms.
Herby Freshness: Replace cilantro with fresh basil or parsley.
Cheesy Upgrade: Melt extra Parmesan into the sauce for a richer texture.
❓ 10 FAQs
1. What pasta works best for pink sauce?
Penne, fettuccine, and spaghetti are classic choices.
2. Can I make it dairy-free?
Yes—replace heavy cream with coconut cream and butter with olive oil.
3. Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of tomato sauce?
Yes—blend and cook fresh tomatoes until thickened.
4. Is pink sauce spicy?
Not by default, but you can make it spicy with chili flakes.
5. Can I prepare the sauce ahead of time?
Yes—store it in the fridge for up to 2 days, then reheat and toss with pasta.
6. Can I add vegetables?
Absolutely—zucchini, spinach, or broccoli work well.
7. Why is my sauce not creamy?
Make sure to simmer gently after adding cream and avoid boiling.
8. Can I use half-and-half instead of heavy cream?
Yes, but the sauce will be slightly less rich.
9. Can I make it without butter?
Yes—use olive oil instead for a lighter version.
10. Can I use Parmesan from a shaker?
Yes, though freshly grated Parmesan gives better flavor and texture.
🏁 Conclusion
The Italian Pink Sauce – Rose Pasta is the perfect middle ground between tangy tomato pasta and rich Alfredo. It’s creamy, flavorful, and endlessly customizable—making it a weeknight favorite that tastes like a restaurant dish.