Ingredients:
- 1 pound pasta (penne, farfalle, or your favorite)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (14.5 oz) can crushed tomatoes
- ½ cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped (optional)
- 1 cup heavy cream
- ½ cup chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts or shrimp (cooked and chopped)
- Fresh basil leaves, for garnish
- Parmesan cheese, for serving (optional)
Instructions:
- Cook the pasta according to package directions. Drain and set aside.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Stir in the garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
- Add crushed tomatoes, sun-dried tomatoes (if using), chicken broth, paprika, and oregano. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Bring to a simmer and cook for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Stir in the heavy cream and simmer for an additional 5 minutes, or until slightly thickened.
- Add the cooked chicken or shrimp to the sauce and heat through.
- To create the heart shape (optional): Spoon half the pasta onto a serving plate. Using a spoon, push a heart-shaped indentation in the center. Fill the indentation with sauce, then top with the remaining pasta.
- Garnish with fresh basil leaves and serve with grated Parmesan cheese, if desired.
Tips and Twists:
- Play with Protein: Swap chicken or shrimp for Italian sausage, salmon, or even tofu for a vegetarian option.
- Lighten Up: Opt for low-fat milk or yogurt instead of heavy cream for a lighter sauce.
- Spice it Up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a kick.
- Get Creative with the Heart: Pipe the sauce into a heart shape on the plate instead of relying on the pasta shape.
- Make it Vegan: Use a vegan cream alternative and plant-based protein like lentils or chickpeas.
Beyond the Hype: A Delicious Choice
Whether Marry Me Pasta lives up to its romantic title is subjective. However, it’s undeniably a delicious and visually appealing dish that’s perfect for a special occasion or simply a delightful weeknight dinner. So grab your loved one, or just a hungry friend, and let the love (or at least the deliciousness) flow!
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