Creamy Herb Pasta (Pasta Cremosa alle Erbe)
Category: Main Course | Serves: 4
This Creamy Herb Pasta is a delightful dish that combines the richness of fresh cheese with aromatic herbs, making it a perfect comforting meal. The smooth, velvety sauce envelops the linguine in a burst of flavor from the fresh herbs and Parmesan, creating a wonderful balance of savory notes that will leave everyone asking for seconds.
Ingredients:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Fresh spreadable cheese | 250g |
| Linguine | 360g |
| Parmesan Reggiano DOP (grated) | 50g |
| Whole milk | 50g |
| Sage | 6 leaves |
| Rosemary | 1 sprig |
| Marjoram | 5 leaves |
| Thyme | 5 sprigs |
| Fine salt | to taste |
| Black pepper (ground) | to taste |
Instructions:
-
Cook the Pasta:
Start by filling a large pot with water and bring it to a boil. Add a generous pinch of salt to the boiling water, then add the linguine. Cook the pasta according to the package instructions, ensuring it remains al dente. Once cooked, reserve a ladle of pasta water for later use, then drain the pasta. -
Prepare the Herb Mixture:
While the pasta is cooking, take the time to finely chop the fresh herbs: thyme, marjoram, rosemary, and sage. The aromatic herbs will infuse the sauce with their vibrant flavors. -
Make the Creamy Sauce:
In a medium-sized bowl, combine the fresh spreadable cheese and grated Parmesan Reggiano. Add the whole milk to the mixture and stir until smooth. This will form the creamy base for your pasta. -
Combine Pasta and Sauce:
Pour the cheese mixture into a large pan over medium heat. Gently heat the mixture, stirring occasionally. As it begins to warm, gradually add the reserved pasta water, one ladle at a time, until the sauce reaches a creamy, velvety consistency. -
Toss the Pasta:
Once the sauce has thickened to your liking, add the cooked linguine to the pan. Toss the pasta in the creamy herb sauce until every strand is evenly coated, allowing the sauce to absorb the flavors. -
Season and Serve:
Season the pasta with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Stir once more to combine the seasoning and flavors. Serve the pasta immediately, garnishing with additional black pepper for an extra kick.
Tips for the Best Creamy Herb Pasta:
- Herb Variations: Feel free to experiment with other herbs such as basil or thyme for a different twist. You can even add a touch of garlic if you like.
- Cheese Options: If you prefer a stronger cheese flavor, consider adding some grated Pecorino Romano along with the Parmesan.
- Pasta Choices: While linguine works beautifully in this recipe, you can substitute it with other pasta shapes like fettuccine or spaghetti.
This creamy herb pasta is an irresistible, comforting dish that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or a casual gathering with friends. The combination of fresh herbs and creamy cheese makes it a delightful choice for anyone who appreciates simple yet flavorful meals. Enjoy the luscious texture and aromatic herb-filled goodness of this Pasta Cremosa alle Erbe and savor every bite!
