Gigi Hadid Pasta
This creamy Gigi Hadid Pasta recipe features shell pasta tossed in a rich tomato and heavy cream sauce with Parmesan cheese and fresh basil. A simple yet elegant meal ideal for weeknights or casual gatherings.
6 Servings
Ingredients
- 1 pound shell pasta such as penne, ziti, or rigatoni
- 1 cup reserved pasta cooking water
- 1/2 cup olive oil
- 1 small yellow onion finely chopped
- 4 garlic cloves minced
- 2/3 cup tomato paste
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes optional, for heat
- 2 tablespoons vodka
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup fresh basil leaves or 1 teaspoon dried basil
Instructions
Cook the Pasta:
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the shell pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of the pasta cooking water before draining. Set the cooked pasta aside.
Prepare the Sauce Base:
- In a large saucepan, heat the olive oil over medium heat until it begins to shimmer. Add the finely chopped onion and sauté for approximately 3 to 4 minutes, or until the onion becomes translucent. Incorporate the minced garlic and continue to sauté for an additional 30 seconds, ensuring it does not burn.
Add Tomato Paste and Cream:
- Stir the tomato paste into the onion and garlic mixture. Cook, stirring frequently with a wooden spoon, for 1 to 2 minutes until the paste darkens slightly in color. Gradually whisk in the heavy cream until fully combined. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil.
Season and Simmer:
- Reduce the heat to low. Add the unsalted butter, kosher salt, ground black pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using). Stir to combine. Incorporate the vodka and allow the sauce to simmer gently for 30 to 60 seconds to meld the flavors.
Combine Pasta and Sauce:
- Add the cooked pasta to the sauce, tossing gently to ensure each piece is evenly coated. If the sauce appears too thick, gradually add reserved pasta water, one tablespoon at a time, until the desired consistency is achieved.
Finish with Cheese and Herbs:
- Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese and fresh basil leaves. Toss gently to combine.
Serve:
- Plate the pasta and garnish with additional Parmesan and basil, if desired. Serve immediately while hot.
Notes
To prepare this recipe as gluten-free:
- Substitute the traditional shell pasta with your preferred gluten-free pasta variety. Ensure you follow the cooking instructions provided on the packaging to achieve the correct texture.
- Verify that the vodka (if used) and all additional ingredients, such as tomato paste and Parmesan cheese, are certified gluten-free to avoid any cross-contamination.