Indulge in the simple, soulful comfort of this deliciously Creamy Pasta, made with nourishing ingredients that feel both decadent and light. This recipe uses sweet shallots and a secret wellness-boosting ingredient to create a silky, satisfying sauce in minutes. Itโs the perfect, elegant meal for a cozy family dinner or a quick, restorative dish just for you.
๐ TIME
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total: 25 min
๐จ๐ฉ๐ง๐ฆ Servings: 4
๐ INGREDIENTS
- 300 g whole-grain or regular pasta (Rigatoni, penne, or fusilli work well)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 3โ4 shallots, finely sliced
- 1 garlic clove, minced (optional)
- ยฝ cup cream (or a plant-based cream like cashew, oat, or coconut)
- 2 tbsp nutritional yeast or grated Parmesan
- 1 tsp ground chia seeds
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- A few fresh herbs (like parsley or thyme) for garnish
๐ฉ๐ณ PREPARATION
- Cook the pasta: In a large pot of salted boiling water, cook your pasta according to the package directions until it’s al dente. Just before draining, reserve about ยฝ cup of the starchy cooking water, then drain the pasta.
- Prepare the shallot sauce: While the pasta is cooking, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the finely sliced shallots and sautรฉ gently for 5โ7 minutes, until they are soft, sweet, and caramelized. If using, add the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Make it creamy: Pour the cream into the skillet with the shallots and stir in the nutritional yeast or Parmesan. Let it simmer gently for 2โ3 minutes. If the sauce seems too thick, add a splash of the reserved pasta water to create a silky, smooth consistency.
- Combine and thicken: Stir the ground chia seeds into the sauce, then add the cooked pasta. Toss everything together well, allowing the chia to help thicken the sauce and coat every piece of pasta beautifully. Season with salt and pepper, garnish with fresh herbs, and serve warm.
๐ก Vitalicious Tip:
Ground chia seeds are a fantastic secret weapon for adding extra creaminess, fiber, and omega-3s to your sauce, making this dish both indulgent and incredibly nourishing.
๐ NUTRITIONAL BENEFITS
- Heart-Healthy fats: Olive oil and chia seeds provide a wonderful source of healthy fats, which are essential for brain health and overall vitality.
- A boost of B Vitamins: Using nutritional yeast not only adds a cheesy, savory flavor but also provides a great source of B vitamins, which are key for energy production.
- Simple, soulful comfort: This dish is pure comfort in a bowl, offering a quick and satisfying meal that warms and nourishes without feeling heavy.
๐ธ VARIATION / OPTION
For a touch of green and extra nutrients, stir in a large handful of fresh spinach or arugula at the very end. The residual heat from the pasta and sauce will wilt the greens perfectly.
๐ SERVING SUGGESTION
Serve this creamy pasta in warm, shallow bowls with a generous sprinkle of fresh herbs and an extra crack of black pepper. Itโs an elegantly simple dish that creates a perfect Mama Vitalicious moment of cozy, shared comfort. ๐
Discover more healthy and family-friendly ideas in our Vita-Meals section!
Frequently Asked Questions
Why chia seeds? Do they change the taste?
Ground chia seeds thicken the sauce naturally while adding fiber, omega-3s, and subtle nutty notes. They donโt overpower the flavor, just elevate it!
Is this healthy comfort food?
Heart-healthy fats from olive oil and chia, plus B vitamins from nutritional yeast, make this indulgent dish surprisingly good for you.
Can kids enjoy it too?
Definitely! The creamy texture, sweet shallots, and gentle flavors make it a family-friendly favorite, even for picky eaters.
How can I make it extra green?
Toss in a handful of fresh spinach or arugula at the endโthe residual heat gently wilts the greens, adding nutrients and vibrant color.
Any tips for next-level flavor?
Caramelize the shallots slowly to deepen sweetness, finish with a drizzle of good olive oil, and sprinkle fresh herbs generously. Simple touches make it feel gourmet.
