Indulgent Creamy Basil & Calabrian Chili Cavatelli Bliss
A creamy and spicy cavatelli dish balanced with fresh basil and Calabrian chili, perfect for family dinners or special gatherings.
Ingredients
Pasta and Base Ingredients
- 12 ounces Cavatelli Pasta These delightful pasta shapes have a unique texture that holds the creamy sauce beautifully.
- 2 tablespoons Olive Oil A fragrant oil that brings richness and depth to the dish.
- 3 cloves Garlic, minced Adds aromatic properties as it cooks.
- 1 cup Heavy Cream Provides the creaminess that defines our dish.
- 1 cup Parmesan Cheese Aged and sharp, adds savory depth.
- 1 cup Fresh Basil Offers a refreshing herbal note.
- 2 tablespoons Calabrian Chili Paste Delivers heat and complexity.
- Salt and Pepper, to taste Essential for enhancing flavors.
- 1/4 cup Extra Basil Leaves, for garnish Adds a pop of color and intensifies flavor.
- 1 tablespoon Chili Flakes Adds an extra hint of heat.
Instructions
Cooking the Pasta
- In a large pot of salted boiling water, cook the cavatelli pasta according to package instructions until al dente, about 8-10 minutes. Drain, reserving a cup of pasta water.
Sautéing the Aromatics
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add minced garlic and cook until fragrant, about 1-2 minutes.
Preparing the Sauce
- Stir in heavy cream and heat through on medium-low. Mix in Parmesan cheese until melted.
- If the sauce is too thick, adjust with a splash of reserved pasta water.
Flavoring the Sauce
- Add fresh basil, Calabrian chili paste, salt, and pepper. Stir and let flavors meld for 3-5 minutes.
Combining Pasta and Sauce
- Toss the cooked cavatelli in the creamy sauce until evenly coated.
Serving
- Plate the pasta and garnish with extra basil leaves and chili flakes.
Notes
For an extra layer of flavor, add a splash of lemon juice to the sauce. Increase Calabrian chili paste or chili flakes for more heat. Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently, adding a splash of cream or reserved pasta water. Consider adding vegetables or swapping pasta types for variations.