Telefono Pasta

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Pasta, 🍝 beloved worldwide, has roots tracing back to ancient times! 🍃 Some sources suggest it originated in Italy, while others trace noodle-like dishes to ancient China. Regardless, pasta became a staple in Italy by the 13th century, particularly in the sunny south where durum wheat thrived. This humble dish has since inspired countless variations around the globe, from rich tomato-based sauces🍅 to creamy creations like this one, satisfying taste buds and bringing people together for centuries!🧄

NUTRITION FACTS (approximately per serving):

Calories: 450 kcal

Protein: 12g

Carbohydrates: 54g

Fat: 20g

Fiber: 3g

Sodium: 750mg


Prep Time: 15 minutes

Cooking Time: 20 minutes

Total Time: 35 minutes

Servings: 4-5


Please note that these values are approximate and can vary depending on the specific brands and quantities of ingredients you use. Additionally, the nutrition facts can change if you adjust the recipe or serving size. Be sure to check product labels and use a nutrition calculator for precise values, especially if you have specific dietary requirements or restrictions.


INGREDIENTS: 

For the Pasta:

  • 500 grams Penne pasta

  • 5 cups Water

  • 1 teaspoon Salt

  • 1 teaspoon Oil

For the Sauce: 

  • 1 tablespoon Oil

  • 5 cloves Garlic (minced)

  • 1 piece Onion (finely chopped)

  • 10 pieces Fresh Tomatoes (diced)

  • 1 pack All-purpose cream

  • ¼ cup Pasta water (or as needed)

  • 1 piece Chicken bouillon cube

  • 1 teaspoon Chili flakes (optional)

  • 1 teaspoon Sugar

  • Pinch of Salt and pepper to taste

  • 1 cup Mozzarella Cheese (or cheese of choice)

INSTRUCTIONS:

Step 1: Prepare Ingredients

  • Mince the garlic, chop the onion, and dice the tomatoes into small pieces.


Step 2: Cook the Pasta

  • In a pot, add water, salt, and oil, then bring the water to a boil.

  • Once boiling, add the penne pasta and cook according to package directions until al dente (about 10-12 minutes, depending on the brand).

  • Drain the pasta and briefly rinse with cold water to stop the cooking process.


Step 3: Make the Sauce Base

  • Heat oil in a pan over medium heat. Add minced garlic and chopped onion, sautéing until fragrant and the onions are translucent.

  • Add diced fresh tomatoes and stir to combine.

  • Cover and cook until they start breaking down and release their juices, creating a slightly chunky sauce (about 5-7 minutes).

    • Tip: If you prefer a smoother sauce, you can lightly mash the tomatoes with a spoon as they cook.



Step 4: Add the Cream and Pasta Water

  • Pour in the all-purpose cream and reserved pasta water, stirring to combine with the tomato mixture.

  • If the sauce seems too thick, add more pasta water, a tablespoon at a time, until it reaches your desired consistency.


Step 5: Season the Sauce

  • Add the chicken bouillon cube, stirring until it’s fully dissolved.

  • Add chili flakes (if using), sugar, salt, and pepper, then stir to combine.

  • Taste the sauce and adjust seasoning as needed to balance flavors.


Step 6: Combine Pasta and Sauce

  • Add the cooked pasta to the pan, stirring well to coat each piece in the sauce. Allow it to simmer for 1-2 minutes so the pasta absorbs some of the sauce’s flavor.

  • Turn off the heat and sprinkle mozzarella cheese over the pasta. Stir until the cheese melts and creates a stretchy, creamy texture.




TIPS:

  • Richer Tomato Flavor: For a deeper tomato flavor, you can roast the fresh tomatoes in the oven at 400°F (200°C) for 20 minutes before adding them to the sauce.

  • Adjust the Creaminess: For a lighter sauce, replace half of the cream with milk, or use half-and-half or a low-fat alternative. For an extra creamy texture, add a splash more cream or even a tablespoon of cream cheese.

  • Cheese Options: For extra flavor, try blending mozzarella with a bit of parmesan or cheddar. This will add depth to the sauce.

  • Spice It Up: Adjust the chili flakes based on your spice preference or try adding a dash of cayenne pepper for an extra kick.

  • Leftover Pasta Water: Adding pasta water to the sauce helps bind the sauce to the pasta because of the starch released during cooking.

  • Add Protein: For a heartier meal, add cooked chicken, shrimp, or even crispy bacon bits before adding the cheese.

  • Reheat Carefully: Reheat leftovers on low heat to prevent the cheese from becoming too rubbery. You can also add a small splash of milk or cream to restore creaminess.

  • Storage Tips: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm on low heat, adding a small splash of milk or cream to restore creaminess. Avoid high heat to prevent the cheese from becoming rubbery.


Serve & Enjoy! 💖



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