As the sun sets and the evening unwinds, there’s nothing quite like sharing a delicious meal with your loved one. Pasta, with its rich flavors and satisfying texture, is the perfect canvas for a romantic dinner. In this article, we’ll take you on a culinary journey through 18 decadent pasta recipes that are sure to impress your partner. From creamy garlic parmesan to truffle-infused mushroom fettuccine, each dish is carefully crafted to delight the senses and leave a lasting impression.
Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply want to treat your significant other to a night in, these romantic pasta recipes will provide the perfect backdrop for a cozy evening at home. So go ahead, get creative, and let the pasta magic begin!
Creamy Garlic Parmesan Pasta with Shrimp
A rich and flavorful pasta dish that combines succulent shrimp with a creamy garlic parmesan sauce, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta of your choice
– 1 lb. large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tbsp butter
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/4 cup grated parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium-high heat. Add garlic and sauté for 1 minute.
3. Add shrimp and cook until pink and fully cooked, about 2-3 minutes per side.
4. Remove shrimp from the skillet and set aside.
5. In the same skillet, add heavy cream and bring to a simmer. Let reduce slightly, then stir in parmesan cheese until melted and smooth.
6. Combine cooked pasta, shrimp, and creamy sauce. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Truffle Oil Mushroom Fettuccine Alfredo
This rich and creamy pasta dish combines the earthy flavor of mushrooms with the luxuriousness of truffle oil, all wrapped up in a velvety Alfredo sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound fettuccine
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 8 oz mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup truffle oil
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook fettuccine according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup pasta water before draining.
2. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add onion and cook until translucent, about 3 minutes.
3. Add mushrooms and garlic; cook until mushrooms release their moisture and start browning, about 5 minutes.
4. Stir in Parmesan cheese and truffle oil. Cook for an additional minute.
5. Combine cooked fettuccine with mushroom mixture and pasta water (if needed). Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Rosemary-Garlic Butter Lobster Linguine
This decadent pasta dish combines the richness of lobster with the brightness of rosemary and garlic, all wrapped up in a velvety butter sauce. Perfect for special occasions or a cozy night in.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz linguine pasta
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 4 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tbsp chopped fresh rosemary leaves
– 1 lb lobster meat, diced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook linguine according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup pasta water before draining.
2. In a medium skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes or until fragrant.
3. Stir in rosemary leaves and cook for an additional minute.
4. Add lobster meat to the skillet and cook until heated through, about 2-3 minutes.
5. Combine cooked linguine, reserved pasta water, and butter-lobster mixture. Toss to coat, seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.
6. Serve immediately, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Sun-Dried Tomato and Basil Pesto Penne
This recipe combines the rich flavors of sun-dried tomatoes and fresh basil with the comforting warmth of penne pasta. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a weekend treat.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz penne pasta
– 1/4 cup sun-dried tomatoes, packed in oil and chopped
– 1/2 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
– 1/2 cup pesto sauce
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook penne pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
2. In a large skillet, combine sun-dried tomatoes, basil leaves, and pesto sauce. Heat over medium heat for 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally.
3. Add the cooked penne pasta to the skillet, tossing to combine with the tomato-basil mixture.
4. Add Parmesan cheese and reserved pasta water (if needed). Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve immediately, garnished with additional basil leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Spicy Crab and Avocado Spaghetti
Elevate your pasta game with this creamy, spicy, and refreshing twist on traditional spaghetti. This recipe combines succulent crab meat, ripe avocado, and a hint of heat for a truly unique dining experience.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz spaghetti
– 1/2 cup jumbo lump crab meat
– 1 ripe avocado, diced
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp sriracha sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add garlic and sauté for 1 minute.
3. Add crab meat, sriracha sauce, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine and cook for 2-3 minutes or until heated through.
4. Toss cooked spaghetti with crab mixture, adding reserved pasta water as needed to achieve desired consistency.
5. Top with diced avocado and garnish with cilantro leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Caramelized Onion and Goat Cheese Ravioli
Elevate your pasta game with this rich and savory ravioli recipe, featuring sweet caramelized onions and creamy goat cheese. This dish is perfect for a special occasion or a cozy night in.
Ingredients:
– 1 large onion, thinly sliced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 (8 oz) package fresh ravioli wrappers
– 1/2 cup goat cheese, crumbled
– 1 egg, beaten
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh thyme leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet, caramelize the onions over medium-low heat for 30-40 minutes, stirring occasionally.
3. Combine caramelized onions with garlic and season with salt and pepper.
4. In a separate bowl, mix goat cheese and beaten egg until smooth.
5. Lay out ravioli wrappers and place a spoonful of onion mixture in the center of each wrapper.
6. Top with a small amount of goat cheese mixture and fold the wrapper to form a triangle or shape of your choice.
7. Cook ravioli for 3-4 minutes, then serve with additional caramelized onions and thyme leaves.
Cooking Time: 45 minutes
Roasted Cherry Tomato and Burrata Capellini
A vibrant summer pasta dish that combines the sweetness of roasted cherry tomatoes with the creaminess of burrata cheese, all wrapped up in a delicate capellini noodle.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz (340g) capellini noodles
– 2 lbs (1 kg) cherry tomatoes, halved
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 8 oz (225g) burrata cheese
– Fresh basil leaves, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Toss the cherry tomato halves with olive oil, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet. Roast for 15-20 minutes or until tomatoes are tender.
3. Cook the capellini noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
4. Slice the burrata cheese into thick rounds.
5. To assemble, place cooked noodles on a plate, top with roasted cherry tomatoes, and finish with a slice of burrata cheese.
6. Garnish with chopped fresh basil leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
White Wine Garlic Scallop Tagliatelle
Elevate your pasta game with this creamy, garlicky, and indulgently flavorful dish. This White Wine Garlic Scallop Tagliatelle is a show-stopper for any dinner party or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 12 large scallops
– 1 pound tagliatelle pasta
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup white wine (dry)
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 cup heavy cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook the tagliatelle pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
2. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute or until fragrant.
3. Add scallops and cook for 2-3 minutes per side or until cooked through. Remove from heat and set aside.
4. In the same skillet, add white wine and heavy cream. Simmer for 2-3 minutes or until sauce has thickened slightly.
5. Combine cooked pasta, reserved pasta water, and sauce mixture. Toss to combine.
6. Add scallops back into the pasta and toss gently to coat.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Prosciutto-Wrapped Asparagus Carbonara
Elevate your pasta game with this creamy, indulgent twist on the classic Italian dish. Thin slices of prosciutto add a salty, savory flavor to tender asparagus and rich egg sauce.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz spaghetti
– 1 lb fresh asparagus, trimmed
– 6 slices prosciutto, thinly sliced
– 2 large eggs
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and black pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook spaghetti in boiling salted water until al dente. Reserve 1 cup pasta water before draining.
2. In a large skillet, cook asparagus over medium-high heat until tender, about 5 minutes. Wrap prosciutto slices around the asparagus and cook for an additional minute.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together eggs and Parmesan cheese. Add reserved pasta water to create a creamy sauce.
4. Combine cooked spaghetti and asparagus mixture in a large serving dish. Pour egg sauce over the top and toss until well coated.
5. Season with salt and black pepper to taste. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Black Truffle and Wild Mushroom Tagliolini
Elevate your pasta game with this decadent dish featuring the earthy flavors of black truffles and wild mushrooms.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz (340g) tagliolini pasta
– 2 cups (400ml) mixed wild mushrooms (e.g., chanterelle, cremini, oyster)
– 1 small black truffle, shaved into thin slices
– 2 tbsp (30ml) unsalted butter
– 1/4 cup (60ml) white wine
– 1/4 cup (60ml) chicken broth
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook tagliolini pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add wild mushrooms and cook until tender, about 5 minutes.
3. Add white wine and chicken broth to the skillet, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom. Simmer for an additional 2-3 minutes.
4. Stir in shaved black truffle. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Combine cooked pasta and mushroom-truffle mixture. Toss to combine, ensuring pasta is well coated.
6. Serve immediately, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Pistachio-Crusted Salmon with Lemon Cream Pasta
This recipe combines the delicate flavor of salmon with the nutty crunch of pistachios and the bright, citrusy taste of lemon cream pasta. A perfect dish for a special occasion or a cozy night in.
Ingredients:
For the salmon:
– 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
– 1/2 cup pistachio meal
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
For the lemon cream pasta:
– 8 oz fettuccine
– 2 tbsp unsalted butter
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 cups heavy cream
– 2 tbsp freshly squeezed lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a shallow dish, mix pistachio meal, olive oil, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Dip each salmon fillet in the pistachio mixture, pressing gently to adhere.
4. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until cooked through.
5. Cook pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
6. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute.
7. Pour in heavy cream and lemon juice. Bring to a simmer and cook for 2-3 minutes or until slightly thickened.
8. Toss cooked pasta with the lemon cream sauce and top with Parmesan cheese (if using).
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Creamy Butternut Squash and Sage Orecchiette
This autumnal pasta dish combines the comforting flavors of roasted butternut squash, crispy sage leaves, and a rich creamy sauce to create a cozy and satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz orecchiette pasta
– 1 large butternut squash (about 2 lbs), peeled and cubed
– 4 tbsp unsalted butter
– 2 cups heavy cream
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 2 tsp chopped fresh sage leaves
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1/4 cup chopped toasted pine nuts (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Toss the butternut squash with butter, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet. Roast for 30-40 minutes or until tender.
2. Cook orecchiette pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, combine roasted butternut squash, heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, and chopped sage leaves. Bring to a simmer and cook for 5-7 minutes or until the sauce has thickened slightly.
4. Combine cooked pasta with the creamy butternut squash sauce. Top with toasted pine nuts (if using) and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: approximately 45-50 minutes
Baked Brie and Fig Tortellini in Sage Butter
Elevate your pasta game with this sweet and savory fusion of creamy brie, caramelized figs, and fragrant sage.
Ingredients:
– 12-15 tortellini (cheese-filled or filled with a mix of cheese and herbs)
– 1 wheel of brie cheese (about 8 oz), softened
– 2 ripe figs, sliced into thin wedges
– 2 tbsp unsalted butter, softened
– 2 tbsp fresh sage leaves, chopped
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Arrange tortellini in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
3. In a small bowl, mix together softened brie cheese, fig slices, and chopped sage leaves.
4. Spoon the brie-fig mixture over the pasta, leaving a small border around each tortellini.
5. Dot the top of each tortellini with softened butter.
6. Bake for 15-18 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 15-18 minutes
Seared Duck Breast with Pomegranate Pappardelle
A sweet and savory dish that combines the rich flavor of duck breast with the tangy sweetness of pomegranate. This recipe is perfect for a special occasion or a cozy dinner at home.
Ingredients:
– 4 duck breasts
– 1 cup pomegranate seeds
– 1/2 cup olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon honey
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 8 oz Pappardelle pasta
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Season the duck breasts with salt and pepper.
3. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the duck breasts for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until cooked through. Let rest for 5 minutes before slicing.
4. Cook Pappardelle pasta according to package instructions. Toss with garlic, honey, and pomegranate seeds.
5. Serve sliced duck breast atop the pomegranate pappardelle.
Cooking Time:
– Duck breasts: 12-15 minutes
– Pasta: 8-10 minutes
Roasted Garlic and Artichoke Heart Lasagna Rolls
Elevate your pasta game with these creamy, flavorful lasagna rolls filled with roasted garlic and artichoke hearts. Perfect for a cozy dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 8-10 lasagna noodles
– 1/2 cup roasted garlic puree (see note)
– 1 (14 oz) can artichoke hearts, drained and chopped
– 1 cup ricotta cheese
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1 egg, beaten
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook lasagna noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
3. In a mixing bowl, combine roasted garlic puree, artichoke hearts, ricotta cheese, and egg. Mix well.
4. Lay a cooked lasagna noodle flat and spread about 1/4 cup of the garlic-artichoke mixture along the center of the noodle.
5. Roll up the noodle tightly and place seam-side down on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Repeat with remaining noodles.
6. Top rolled lasagna with shredded mozzarella cheese and bake for 20-25 minutes or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Brown Butter Crab and Lemon Zest Spaghetti
This decadent yet elegant pasta dish combines the richness of brown butter, the sweetness of crab, and the brightness of lemon zest for a truly unforgettable culinary experience.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz spaghetti
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 1/2 cup jumbo lump crab meat (fresh or frozen)
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 teaspoon grated lemon zest
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup pasta cooking liquid before draining.
2. In a medium saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Continue cooking until butter turns golden brown and nutty (about 5-7 minutes).
3. Add garlic, crab meat, lemon juice, and zest to the browned butter. Cook for an additional 2 minutes, stirring frequently.
4. Combine cooked spaghetti with the crab mixture, tossing to coat evenly. If needed, add some reserved pasta cooking liquid to achieve desired consistency.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Wild Mushroom and Pancetta Gnocchi
Savor the earthy flavors of wild mushrooms paired with crispy pancetta, all wrapped up in pillowy gnocchi.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup semolina flour
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 large egg
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/2 cup mixed wild mushrooms (such as chanterelle, oyster, and shiitake), cleaned and sliced
– 6 slices pancetta, chopped
– Extra virgin olive oil
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine flours, salt, and pepper.
2. Make a well in the center of the flour mixture and add the egg.
3. Mix until a dough forms, then knead for 5 minutes.
4. Wrap dough in plastic wrap and rest for 30 minutes.
5. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
6. Roll out dough to a thickness of about 1/8 inch (3 mm).
7. Cut into small squares and cook for 3-5 minutes, or until they float.
8. In a pan, sauté pancetta and mushrooms in olive oil until crispy.
9. Toss cooked gnocchi with mushroom mixture and top with Parmesan cheese.
Cooking Time: Approximately 20-25 minutes
Pesto-Stuffed Chicken with Roasted Red Pepper Linguine
Elevate your pasta game with this flavorful dish that combines juicy chicken, creamy pesto, and roasted red peppers. This recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1/2 cup pesto
– 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 8 oz linguine pasta
– 2 large red bell peppers, seeded and sliced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Olive oil for cooking
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix pesto, mozzarella cheese, and parsley.
3. Lay chicken breasts flat and spoon the pesto mixture onto each breast.
4. Roll up the chicken tightly and secure with toothpicks.
5. Place the rolled chicken on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and drizzle with olive oil.
6. Roast red bell peppers in the oven for 30-40 minutes, or until charred.
7. Cook linguine pasta according to package instructions.
8. Serve roasted red peppers over linguine pasta with pesto-stuffed chicken.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Summary
Indulge in a romantic evening with your loved one with these 18 decadent pasta recipes. From creamy garlic parmesan shrimp to truffle oil mushroom fettuccine alfredo, and from rosemary-garlic butter lobster linguine to caramelized onion and goat cheese ravioli, each dish is designed to delight the senses. With a range of ingredients and flavors, these romantic pasta recipes are sure to impress your partner and make for a memorable meal together. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or just want to treat yourselves, these dishes will surely satisfy your cravings.
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