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Quick Pink Strawberry Penne Alfredo

pink strawberry penne alfredo - featured image
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A quick and easy 15-minute dinner featuring penne pasta in a creamy Alfredo sauce with a surprising sweet twist from fresh strawberries.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 8 ounces (225 grams) penne pasta
  • 1 cup fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 2 garlic cloves, finely minced
  • 1 cup (240 ml) heavy cream (or substitute half with whole milk)
  • 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • A handful fresh basil leaves, chopped (optional)
  • ½ cup cottage cheese (optional, blended for smooth texture)
  • 1 teaspoon lemon zest

Instructions

  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add 8 ounces (225 grams) of penne pasta and cook according to package instructions (usually 11-12 minutes) until al dente. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking. Drain and set aside, reserving about ½ cup (120 ml) of pasta water.
  2. While pasta cooks, hull and slice 1 cup of fresh strawberries. Set aside.
  3. In a large skillet over medium heat, melt 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter. Add 2 minced garlic cloves and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant but not browned.
  4. Toss sliced strawberries into the skillet. Cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring gently until they soften and release a bit of juice.
  5. Pour in 1 cup (240 ml) of heavy cream and add 1 teaspoon of lemon zest. Bring to a gentle simmer, stirring frequently.
  6. Slowly whisk in 1 cup of freshly grated Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth. If using, blend ½ cup of cottage cheese until creamy and stir it in now for a silky texture.
  7. Add salt and freshly cracked black pepper to taste. Remember, Parmesan adds saltiness, so season carefully.
  8. Add the drained penne to the skillet and toss to coat evenly. Use reserved pasta water, a tablespoon at a time, if the sauce feels too thick.
  9. Remove from heat and stir in a handful of chopped fresh basil leaves for a fresh, herbal note.
  10. Serve immediately, optionally garnished with extra Parmesan and whole strawberry slices.

Notes

If sauce starts to separate, lower heat and whisk vigorously. Adding reserved pasta water helps bring sauce back together. Avoid overcooking garlic and strawberries to maintain gentle softness. Use freshly grated Parmesan for best melting and flavor. For dairy-free version, substitute butter with olive oil and heavy cream with coconut cream.

Nutrition

Keywords: strawberry pasta, penne alfredo, quick dinner, creamy pasta, easy weeknight meal, strawberry alfredo, fruit pasta sauce

Find it online: https://emmayum.com/quick-pink-strawberry-penne-alfredo-recipe-15-minute-easy-dinner/