Pasta a la Passion
If you’re looking for a pasta dish that’s equal parts comforting and sophisticated, Pasta a la Passion is your perfect match. This irresistible recipe features pasta tossed with tender broccoli, savory sun-dried tomatoes and parmesan cheese in a luscious Marsala wine and chicken broth sauce. It’s a dish that feels like love in every bite.
Why You’ll Love Pasta a la Passion
- Bold Flavors: The combination of Marsala wine and sun-dried tomatoes creates a rich, savory-sweet sauce.
- Weeknight Friendly: It’s ready in under 30 minutes, perfect for busy evenings.
- Nutritious & Delicious: With broccoli and a light sauce, it’s balanced and satisfying.
What You Will Need:
- farfalle pasta
- broccoli florets
- sun-dried tomatoes
- unsalted butter
- shallot, finely chopped
- garlic, minced
- Marsala wine
- chicken broth
- freshly grated Parmesan cheese (plus extra for serving)
Tips for Success
- Customize the Veggies: Swap broccoli for asparagus or spinach for a seasonal twist.
- Make It Creamy: Add a splash of heavy cream for extra indulgence.
- Protein Boost: Add cooked chicken or shrimp for a heartier meal.
FAQ for Pasta a la Passion:
While farfalle works well for this recipe, you can use penne, rigatoni, or even spaghetti.
If you don’t have Marsala wine, try using a dry white wine or a splash of balsamic vinegar for depth of flavor. But Marsala adds a special flavor!
While best enjoyed fresh, you can make the sauce ahead of time and reheat it when ready to serve. Cook the pasta just before serving for the best texture.
Add a pinch of red pepper flakes while sautéing the garlic for a bit of heat.
Pasta a la Passion is a celebration of flavors that feels fancy but is deceptively simple. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or enjoying a quiet night in, this dish will make every meal feel like a special occasion.
Instructions:
- Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the farfalle according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water, then drain.
- Blanch the Broccoli: While the pasta cooks, blanch the broccoli florets in boiling water for 2-3 minutes until bright green and tender-crisp. Drain and set aside.
- Sauté Aromatics: In a large skillet over medium heat, heat the olive oil and butter until melted. Add the shallot and cook until softened, about 2-3 minutes. Stir in the garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Create the Sauce: Add the sun-dried tomatoes and Marsala wine, simmering for 2-3 minutes until slightly reduced. Stir in the chicken broth and cook for another 5 minutes.
- Combine Everything: Add the cooked pasta and broccoli to the skillet, tossing to coat. If needed, stir in reserved pasta water, 2 tablespoons at a time, until the sauce reaches your desired consistency.
- Finish with Cheese: Remove from heat and stir in the Parmesan cheese. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve: Divide into bowls, garnish with additional Parmesan and fresh herbs if desired, and serve hot.
Pasta a la Passion
Ingredients
- 1 pound Boneless Skinless Chicken Breasts cut into small chunks
- 2 cups Broccoli Florets
- 3 Garlic cloves minced
- 2 tbsp Olive Oil
- * ½ tsp salt and freshly ground pepper
- 1/2 cup Marsala Wine
- 1 cup Chicken Broth
- 1 tbsp Butter
- ½ cup Sun-Dried Tomatoes in oil, diced
- 8 oz Farfalle Pasta
- ¼ cup Freshly Grated Parmesan Cheese
Instructions
- Saute the garlic and oil on medium, until fragrant then add diced chicken until almost fully cooked
- Add in sun-dried tomatoes (with their oil), seasonings, wine, and chicken broth and stir, let simmer for about 5 minutes
- Add butter and stir cook for another few minutes
- Boil a large pot of salted water
- Add broccoli to boiling water and blanch until tender (a few minutes)
- With a slotted spoon, add broccoli to the simmering sauce
- Add pasta to boiling water and cook until done, according to directions on the box
- Save ½ cup of pasta water
- Add pasta to the sauce and stir until evenly distributed and combined (use pasta water if needed)
- Top with parmesan cheese and serve!
