Gigi Hadid Spicy Pasta (Print Version)

# Ingredients:

→ Main Ingredients

01 - 16 ounces rigatoni pasta or penne
02 - 1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil
03 - 1 tablespoon fresh garlic, finely minced
04 - 2/3 cup tomato paste
05 - 1 1/3 cup heavy cream
06 - 2 teaspoons red pepper flakes, or to taste
07 - 2 teaspoons dried basil
08 - Salt and pepper, to taste
09 - 1/2 cup freshly grated parmesan, more to taste
10 - 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
11 - At least 1 cup reserved pasta water

→ Optional Garnishes

12 - Finely chopped parsley
13 - Red pepper flakes

# Instructions:

01 - Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package directions. Reserve at least 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
02 - In a saucepan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the garlic and tomato paste and cook for about 4 to 5 minutes, allowing the tomato paste to darken from bright red to reddish brown.
03 - Add the heavy cream and stir until fully combined. Let the mixture simmer for 2 to 3 minutes. Then, add red pepper flakes, dried basil, salt, and black pepper. Mix thoroughly.
04 - Add the grated parmesan, butter, and 1/2 cup of reserved pasta water. Stir until the sauce becomes smooth and creamy. If needed, add more pasta water, but 1/2 cup is typically sufficient.
05 - Toss the cooked pasta into the sauce, stirring to coat evenly. Optionally, garnish with more grated parmesan, chopped parsley, and red pepper flakes before serving.

# Notes:

01 - For a richer flavor, allow the tomato paste to cook long enough to change its color and reduce its acidity.
02 - Adjust the spice level by modifying the quantity of red pepper flakes.