Marry Me Pasta

Marry Me Pasta is a delightful and creamy dish that captivates the heart with its rich flavors. This recipe brings together the comforting essence of pasta with sun-dried tomatoes and a luscious cream sauce, making it perfect for romantic dinners or cozy family meals. Its simplicity in preparation and elegant taste makes it a standout choice for various occasions, from casual weeknight dinners to special celebrations.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This Marry Me Pasta can be whipped up in just 35 minutes, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
• Creamy and Flavorful: The combination of light cream and Parmesan creates a rich sauce that coats every noodle perfectly.
• Versatile Ingredients: You can easily customize this dish by adding your favorite vegetables or proteins, like grilled chicken or sautéed spinach.
• Perfect for Sharing: With servings for 4-6 people, it’s a wonderful dish to share with loved ones or friends.
• Impressive Presentation: The vibrant colors from sun-dried tomatoes and fresh basil make this pasta visually appealing on any table.

Tools and Preparation

To make Marry Me Pasta, you will need a few essential tools to streamline your cooking process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Non-stick pan
• Cutting board
• Knife
• Blender or food processor
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Pot for boiling water

Importance of Each Tool

• Non-stick pan: Ensures easy cooking and prevents the creamy sauce from sticking while you prepare the dish.
• Blender or food processor: Helps create a smooth sun-dried tomato paste quickly, enhancing flavor without much effort.

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Ingredients

A meatless creamy pasta recipe inspired by the popular marry me chicken!

Ingredients:
– 1 and 1/2 tablespoons butter
– 4 cloves of garlic, grated
– 2 cups light cream
– 1 cup fresh grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes + 1 tablespoon oil from the jar
– 1 tablespoon finely chopped fresh basil
– 2 teaspoons chicken bouillon powder
– 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
– 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon pepper
– 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper (more if you want it to be spicy!)
– 3/4 box of thin linguini or other long noodle of your choice! If using short noodles use about 3 cups of dry noodles
– Reserved pasta water

How to Make Marry Me Pasta

Step 1: Prepare Sun-Dried Tomato Paste

To make the sun-dried tomato paste:
1. Measure out the 1/2 cup of sun-dried tomatoes.
2. Chop them as finely as you can.
3. Add them to a blender or food processor along with 1 tablespoon of oil from the jar.
4. Pulse a few times, scraping down the sides between pulses until you achieve a coarse paste.

Step 2: Cook the Noodles

While preparing your paste:
1. Bring salted water to a boil in a pot.
2. Add the noodles and cook according to package instructions.
3. Reserve about 1/4 cup of pasta water before straining the noodles.
4. Set aside the cooked noodles after straining.

Step 3: Make the Creamy Sauce

In your non-stick pan:
1. Melt the butter over medium heat.
2. Add grated garlic, crushed red pepper flakes, dried thyme, and chicken bouillon powder.
3. Cook for about 1 minute until fragrant.

Step 4: Combine Cream and Cheese

Next:
1. Pour in the light cream.
2. Heat gently for about 5 minutes; keep it at a light simmer—avoid boiling.
3. Stir in fresh grated Parmesan cheese, sun-dried tomato paste, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and fresh basil.
4. Simmer for an additional 5–7 minutes while stirring occasionally.

Step 5: Mix in Noodles

Finally:
1. Add cooked noodles into the sauce mixture.
2. Stir well to coat every noodle evenly with sauce.
3. Use reserved pasta water as needed to thin out the sauce if desired.

Step 6: Serve Hot

Turn off the heat:
1. Serve immediately while hot.
2. Garnish with additional Parmesan cheese if desired.

Enjoy your delicious Marry Me Pasta!

How to Serve Marry Me Pasta

Marry Me Pasta is a creamy, flavorful dish that can be enjoyed in various ways. Serving this pasta creatively can elevate your dining experience and impress your guests.

Pair with Fresh Salad

• A simple green salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette complements the rich flavors of the pasta.

Serve with Garlic Bread

• Warm, buttery garlic bread is perfect for soaking up the creamy sauce and adds a delightful crunch to each bite.

Add Grilled Vegetables

• Grilled zucchini, bell peppers, or asparagus provide a colorful and healthy addition that balances the pasta’s richness.

Top with Extra Cheese

• For cheese lovers, adding a sprinkle of fresh Parmesan or mozzarella right before serving enhances flavor and texture.

Garnish with Fresh Herbs

• Chopped basil or parsley sprinkled on top adds freshness and makes the dish visually appealing.

Offer Red Pepper Flakes on the Side

• For those who enjoy heat, serving red pepper flakes allows guests to customize their spice level.

How to Perfect Marry Me Pasta

To achieve the best results with Marry Me Pasta, follow these tips for a creamy, satisfying dish every time.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh garlic and herbs enhance the flavor compared to dried alternatives.
• Control Heat Carefully: Avoid boiling the cream; simmer gently to prevent curdling and achieve a smooth sauce.
• Reserve Pasta Water: Using reserved pasta water helps adjust sauce consistency while adding starch for better adhesion.
• Don’t Rush Cooking Noodles: Cook pasta until al dente for perfect texture; it will continue to cook slightly when mixed with the sauce.
• Adjust Seasonings: Taste as you go. Feel free to add more salt, pepper, or crushed red pepper according to your preference.
• Experiment with Noodles: While linguini is traditional, feel free to use other long noodles like fettuccine or spaghetti for variety.

Best Side Dishes for Marry Me Pasta

Enhancing your meal with delightful side dishes can create a balanced dinner experience. Here are some great options to serve alongside Marry Me Pasta:

1. Crispy Roasted Brussels Sprouts
   Roasted until golden brown, these sprouts add a crunchy texture and earthy flavor that pairs well.

2. Caesar Salad
   This classic salad offers crisp romaine lettuce and tangy dressing, providing a refreshing contrast to creamy pasta.

3. Grilled Corn on the Cob
   Sweet grilled corn brings a fun summer vibe and sweetness that complements savory dishes perfectly.

4. Steamed Broccoli
   Lightly steamed broccoli adds color and nutrients while its mild flavor balances out richer meals.

5. Caprese Skewers
   Mozzarella balls, cherry tomatoes, and basil drizzled with balsamic glaze create an easy-to-eat appetizer full of flavor.

6. Antipasto Platter
   A selection of olives, artichokes, and roasted peppers provides variety and is great for sharing before the main course.

7. Garlic Herb Quinoa
   This nutritious grain adds protein and fiber while being subtly flavored to complement your pasta dish without overpowering it.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Marry Me Pasta, it’s easy to encounter a few common pitfalls. Here are some mistakes to watch out for.

• Using low-quality ingredients: Always opt for fresh, high-quality ingredients. This ensures your dish is flavorful and satisfying.
• Overcooking the pasta: Make sure to cook the pasta al dente. This helps it maintain its texture and prevents mushiness in the final dish.
• Neglecting to reserve pasta water: Don’t forget to save some pasta water! It can help adjust the sauce’s consistency without sacrificing flavor.
• Skipping the sun-dried tomato paste: This paste adds depth and richness. Take the time to prepare it for a more delicious result.
• Boiling the sauce: Avoid boiling the creamy sauce; simmering gently allows flavors to meld beautifully without compromising texture.
• Not garnishing properly: A sprinkle of extra Parmesan or fresh basil can elevate your dish. Always finish with a garnish for a professional look!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container: This keeps your Marry Me Pasta fresh.
• Consume within 3-4 days: For optimal taste, eat leftovers within this timeframe.

Freezing Marry Me Pasta

• Use freezer-safe containers: These prevent freezer burn and maintain quality.
• Freeze for up to 2 months: Label with the date for easy identification.

Reheating Marry Me Pasta

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Place pasta in an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and heat for about 15-20 minutes until warm.
• Microwave: Transfer portions into a microwave-safe bowl. Heat on medium power in 1-minute intervals, stirring in between until heated through.
• Stovetop: In a pan over medium heat, add a splash of reserved pasta water if needed. Stir until warmed, ensuring not to overheat.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about Marry Me Pasta that many people ask.

Can I make Marry Me Pasta vegan?

Yes! You can substitute light cream with coconut milk or any plant-based cream and use nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan cheese.

What kind of noodles can I use for Marry Me Pasta?

You can use thin linguini or any long noodle you prefer. Short pasta works too; just adjust the quantity accordingly.

How spicy is Marry Me Pasta?

The level of spiciness depends on how much crushed red pepper you add. Start with a little and increase according to your taste preference!

Can I add vegetables to Marry Me Pasta?

Absolutely! Feel free to include vegetables like spinach, bell peppers, or zucchini for added nutrition and flavor.

How do I store leftover Marry Me Pasta?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days or freeze them for up to 2 months.

Final Thoughts

Marry Me Pasta is not only creamy and delicious but also incredibly versatile. You can customize it with various vegetables or alternative proteins based on your preferences. Give this recipe a try; it’s bound to impress anyone you serve!