Are you ready to elevate your pasta game to a whole new level? Imagine a luscious, creamy sauce that not only tantalizes your taste buds but also packs a healthy punch! Our Creamy Carrot Pasta Sauce is the perfect blend of vibrant flavors and wholesome ingredients, making it a delightful addition to your dinner table. In just 30 minutes, you can whip up this Italian-inspired dish that promises to impress family and friends alike. So, grab your apron and let’s dive into this deliciously creamy adventure that will have everyone asking for seconds!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 20 mins
Total Time: 30 mins
Cuisine: Italian
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 2 cups carrots, chopped
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup vegetable broth
- 1 cup cream or coconut milk
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 lb pasta of choice
Instructions
- Wash and peel carrots, then chop them into small, uniform pieces to ensure even cooking. Finely dice the onion and mince the garlic cloves.
- Heat a large skillet or saucepan over medium heat. Add a small amount of olive oil and sauté the chopped onions until they become translucent and soft, approximately 3-4 minutes.
- Add minced garlic to the onions and cook for an additional 30 seconds, stirring constantly to prevent burning and release the aromatic flavors.
- Add the chopped carrots to the pan and pour in the vegetable broth. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer and cover the pan.
- Cook the carrots in the broth for about 10-12 minutes, or until they are completely tender and can be easily pierced with a fork.
- Remove the pan from heat and transfer the cooked carrots and liquid to a blender or food processor. Blend until the mixture becomes smooth and creamy.
- Return the carrot puree to the pan and stir in the cream or coconut milk. Warm the sauce over low heat, stirring occasionally.
- Season the sauce with salt and pepper to taste, adjusting the seasoning as needed.
- While preparing the sauce, cook the pasta in a separate pot according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water before draining.
- Drain the pasta and add it directly to the carrot sauce. Toss to coat evenly, using reserved pasta water if needed to adjust consistency.
- Serve immediately, garnishing with fresh herbs like parsley or basil if desired. The creamy carrot sauce can be enjoyed hot and pairs well with a variety of pasta shapes.
Tips
- Prep Your Ingredients: Before you start cooking, wash, peel, and chop your carrots into small, uniform pieces. This ensures they cook evenly and blend smoothly into the sauce.
- Sautéing for Flavor: When sautéing the onions, make sure to cook them until they are translucent. This brings out their natural sweetness and adds depth to your sauce.
- Blend for Creaminess: For the smoothest sauce, allow the carrot mixture to cool slightly before blending. This will help you achieve that velvety texture that coats your pasta perfectly.
- Adjusting Consistency: If your sauce is too thick, don’t hesitate to use the reserved pasta water to loosen it up. Just a splash can make a world of difference!
- Herb Garnish: Elevate your dish with a sprinkle of fresh herbs like parsley or basil before serving. Not only do they add a pop of color, but they also enhance the overall flavor profile of your creamy carrot pasta.
- Pasta Pairing: While this sauce works wonderfully with any pasta, consider using shapes like fettuccine or penne to maximize the sauce's cling and flavor in every bite.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: kcal
Carbohydrates: g
Protein: g
Fat: g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: mg