Creamy Basil & Calabrian Chili Cavatelli is a delightful pasta dish that offers the perfect balance of creamy richness and spicy heat. The blend of fresh basil, Calabrian chili paste, and Parmesan creates an unforgettable flavor profile that will excite pasta lovers. Ideal for anyone craving a quick, flavorful meal, this dish is easy to prepare and offers a customizable spice level, making it perfect for any occasion.

Full Recipe:

Ingredients

• 1 pound cavatelli pasta

• 2 tablespoons olive oil

• 4 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 cup heavy cream

• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese

• ¼ cup fresh basil, chopped

• 2 tablespoons Calabrian chili paste (adjust to taste)

• Salt and pepper, to taste

• Optional: extra basil leaves for garnish

• Optional: chili flakes for added heat

Directions

1. Cook the Pasta: Bring salted water to a boil in a large pot. Cook the cavatelli according to the package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining the pasta.

2. Prepare the Sauce: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute.

3. Add the Cream: Reduce the heat and pour in the heavy cream. Stir to combine with the garlic.

4. Incorporate the Cheese: Gradually add the grated Parmesan cheese while stirring to melt it smoothly into the sauce.

5. Mix in Flavor: Stir in the chopped basil and Calabrian chili paste. Adjust the spice level by adding more chili paste if you like it spicier.

6. Combine Pasta and Sauce: Add the drained cavatelli to the skillet, mixing well to coat each piece with the creamy sauce. If the sauce is too thick, gradually add reserved pasta water until you reach the desired consistency.

7. Season: Taste and adjust with salt and pepper as needed.

8. Heat Through: Let everything warm together on the stove for about 2-3 minutes to meld the flavors.

9. Serve: Remove from heat and serve immediately, garnishing with extra basil leaves or a sprinkle of chili flakes if desired.

Nutrients (Per Serving)

• Calories: 600

• Fat: 28g

• Protein: 15g

A Flavorful Fusion of Cream and Spice

The hallmark of this dish lies in the perfect balance between the creamy, velvety sauce and the vibrant, spicy undertones of Calabrian chili paste. The combination of heavy cream and Parmesan cheese creates a rich, indulgent base that clings beautifully to each piece of cavatelli pasta. Meanwhile, the fresh basil adds a refreshing, herbaceous note that brightens up the richness of the sauce. Calabrian chili paste, a key ingredient in this dish, is known for its distinct, smoky, and spicy flavor. Its heat level can be adjusted to your liking, allowing you to customize the dish for those who prefer mild spice or those who crave a fiery kick. This marriage of creamy and spicy ingredients ensures that every bite is an explosion of flavors, exciting your taste buds with each forkful.

Simple Yet Sophisticated: A Quick and Easy Meal

What makes Creamy Basil & Calabrian Chili Cavatelli particularly appealing is its simplicity. With just a few ingredients, the dish is quick to prepare, making it an excellent choice for weeknight dinners or even casual gatherings. The creamy sauce is made by sautéing garlic in olive oil, then adding heavy cream and Parmesan cheese, resulting in a smooth, luscious texture. The addition of fresh basil and Calabrian chili paste elevates the sauce, infusing it with fresh and spicy flavors. Cooking the pasta to al dente perfection and tossing it with the sauce ensures that each piece of cavatelli is perfectly coated in the creamy, spicy goodness. With minimal prep time and just a handful of ingredients, this dish comes together effortlessly, offering maximum flavor with minimal fuss.

The Signature Pasta: Cavatelli

Cavatelli pasta, with its small, curved shape, is ideal for holding sauces, making it a perfect match for this creamy basil and chili concoction. The grooves and ridges of cavatelli help the sauce adhere to the pasta, ensuring each bite is packed with flavor. Cavatelli is a traditional Italian pasta, often found in Southern Italian cuisine, and its texture is firmer than many other pasta shapes, giving it a satisfying bite. The pasta’s ability to pair with both rich and light sauces makes it incredibly versatile. In this dish, cavatelli provides the perfect base for the rich, creamy sauce and the spicy kick of Calabrian chili paste, allowing the flavors to shine.

Adjusting the Spice: A Customizable Heat Level

One of the great things about Creamy Basil & Calabrian Chili Cavatelli is the flexibility to adjust the heat to suit your preferences. The Calabrian chili paste is what gives the dish its signature spice, but you can add more or less depending on how much heat you enjoy. If you prefer a mild, subtly spiced dish, start with the recommended amount and taste as you go, adjusting accordingly. For those who like it hotter, feel free to add extra chili paste or even a sprinkle of chili flakes when serving. This adaptability makes the dish perfect for a variety of tastes, whether you’re cooking for someone who loves a fiery meal or someone who prefers a milder version.

A Versatile Dish for Any Occasion

Creamy Basil & Calabrian Chili Cavatelli is versatile enough to be served on its own as a comforting, hearty meal or paired with other dishes for a more elaborate spread. As a main course, the creamy, spicy pasta is satisfying and filling, perfect for a family dinner or a casual get-together with friends. The dish also makes a great side when served alongside grilled meats, roasted vegetables, or a fresh salad. The balance of creamy richness and spicy heat makes it a versatile dish that complements many different types of cuisines. Whether served as a standalone meal or as part of a larger feast, this pasta dish is sure to impress.

Fresh Ingredients for Maximum Flavor

The key to creating a truly flavorful Creamy Basil & Calabrian Chili Cavatelli lies in the quality of the ingredients. Fresh basil is essential for this dish, as its aromatic and slightly peppery flavor brings brightness to the creamy sauce. Grated Parmesan cheese, preferably freshly grated, adds a deep, umami flavor that complements the richness of the cream. Calabrian chili paste is another standout ingredient, with its smoky, tangy, and spicy notes that elevate the entire dish. Using high-quality olive oil to sauté the garlic ensures that the base of the sauce is rich and flavorful. By focusing on fresh and quality ingredients, this dish will shine with authentic flavors and satisfy even the most discerning palates.

Nutritional Information: A Satisfying and Balanced Meal

Creamy Basil & Calabrian Chili Cavatelli is a rich and indulgent dish, but it also provides a balanced meal with a decent amount of protein and healthy fats. Each serving contains approximately 600 calories, 28g of fat, and 15g of protein, making it a filling and satisfying choice for dinner. The combination of heavy cream and Parmesan adds richness and flavor, while the basil provides a fresh, aromatic element. While the dish is on the richer side, it offers a great balance of creamy texture and spice, making it a worthy indulgence every now and then. Additionally, the heat from the Calabrian chili paste helps to balance out the richness, creating a well-rounded dish.

Conclusion

Creamy Basil & Calabrian Chili Cavatelli is a dish that delivers on both flavor and simplicity. The creamy, cheesy sauce paired with the bold heat of Calabrian chili paste creates a harmonious blend that is sure to delight your taste buds. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight meal or a flavorful dish for a special occasion, this pasta has you covered. The beauty of this dish lies in its versatility, allowing you to adjust the heat to your liking and pair it with a variety of sides. With its fresh ingredients and satisfying flavors, Creamy Basil & Calabrian Chili Cavatelli is a pasta dish that will surely become a favorite in your kitchen.