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–+ servings
Creamy Basil & Calabrian Chili Cavatelli

Creamy Basil & Calabrian Chili Cavatelli for a Spicy Kick

A flavorful and customizable dish featuring creamy sauce and spicy Calabrian chili, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 500
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Pasta
  • 1 pound Cavatelli Pasta Can substitute with fusilli or penne
For the Sauce
  • 2 tablespoons Olive Oil Can be replaced with butter
  • 3 cloves Garlic Fresh minced
  • 1 cup Heavy Cream Half-and-half is a lighter substitute
  • 1/2 cup Parmesan Cheese Consider pecorino or nutritional yeast as alternatives
  • 1 cup Fresh Basil Dried basil can be used but changes flavor profile
  • 1-2 tablespoons Calabrian Chili Paste Adjust according to heat preference
  • to taste Salt
  • to taste Pepper
Optional Garnishes
  • to taste Extra Basil Leaves
  • to taste Chili Flakes

Equipment

  • large pot
  • Skillet
  • Colander

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add the cavatelli pasta and cook until al dente, around 8-10 minutes. Reserve about a cup of pasta water before draining.
  2. Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add 3 cloves of minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.
  3. Pour in 1 cup of heavy cream, stirring gently. Simmer for about 3-4 minutes until it thickens slightly.
  4. Gradually mix in 1/2 cup of grated Parmesan cheese, stirring until melted.
  5. Stir in 1/2 cup of chopped fresh basil and 1-2 tablespoons of Calabrian chili paste. Mix well.
  6. Add the drained cavatelli to the skillet, tossing to coat. If the sauce is too thick, add reserved pasta water.
  7. Season with salt and pepper. Cook on low for 2-3 minutes to develop flavors.
  8. Serve immediately, garnished with extra basil leaves or chili flakes.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 500kcalCarbohydrates: 60gProtein: 12gFat: 25gSaturated Fat: 12gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 10gCholesterol: 60mgSodium: 600mgPotassium: 300mgFiber: 4gSugar: 2gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 10mgCalcium: 200mgIron: 2mg

Notes

Be careful not to overcook garlic, as it can burn. Always use fresh basil for the best flavor. Adjust heat gradually with Calabrian chili paste. Reserve pasta water for perfect sauce consistency. Nutritional yeast can substitute cheese for a vegan option.

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