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Pink Pepper Pasta

Pink Pepper Pasta is a visually striking and flavorful dish featuring creamy Parmesan sauce infused with crushed pink peppercorns, topped with savory cured meats and fresh herbs for an elegant yet simple meal.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 8 oz dry pasta (ditalini, elbow, or similar small shapes)
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 2 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 12 tsp crushed pink peppercorns
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • 1/4 cup diced cured meat (salami, pancetta, or similar)
  • Fresh basil or parsley for garnish
  • Optional: crushed red pepper, lemon zest for finishing

Instructions

  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook pasta until al dente. Drain and set aside.
  2. In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat and sauté minced garlic until fragrant.
  3. Stir in heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer. Add Parmesan cheese, crushed pink peppercorns, salt, and black pepper. Stir until smooth.
  4. Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and stir to coat with the sauce. Simmer 2–3 minutes until thickened.
  5. Spoon into serving bowls. Top with diced cured meats, additional pink peppercorns, and fresh herbs.
  6. Optionally, finish with a sprinkle of lemon zest or crushed red pepper.

Notes

  • Use pink peppercorns for mild, floral heat; black pepper can be substituted but will change the flavor.
  • To make vegetarian, skip the meat or use sun-dried tomatoes.
  • Vegan version: swap cream with cashew cream and use nutritional yeast.
  • Add lemon zest or chili flakes for a brighter or spicier finish.
  • Pairs well with salad and white wine.

Nutrition

Keywords: pink peppercorn pasta, creamy pepper sauce, elegant pasta dish, romantic dinner, gourmet pasta recipe