If you're in the mood for something a little fancy but still easy to make, this Saffron Pasta is just the thing. It feels special with a rich, saffron infused cream sauce coating every strand of golden pappardelle. It is perfect for a special occasion or just treating yourself.
This saffron pasta is bursting with flavor and works beautifully as a main course or paired with chicken or shrimp. The rich creamy sauce with saffron is complemented by garlic, a hint of red pepper flakes, and a touch of fresh basil. It's a dish that’s both comforting and elegant, and one you’re going to absolutely love!
If you are looking for more delicious pasta recipes, check out our: Salmon Fettuccine Alfredo, Garlic Parmesan Pasta with Chicken, Chorizo Orzo or Nduja Pasta.
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Why You'll Love this Recipe
It is flavorful - This dish is full of unique flavor with saffron giving the cream sauce a subtle, earthy richness. The garlic brings in a savory kick, and the red pepper flakes add just enough heat to balance out the creamy goodness. Every bite is a perfect mix of these flavors, making the dish both cozy and a real treat.
It is simple - This dish is a breeze to whip up with just a few key steps. You’ll cook the pappardelle, make a quick saffron cream sauce, and toss it all together. It’s easy but feels special which makes it perfect for any occasion.
It is versatile - You can enjoy this pasta dish on its own for a hearty meal or pair it with chicken or shrimp for added protein. It’s also a great side dish that compliments a variety of main courses and makes it easy to adapt to different meals. I recommend serving at a dinner party to make your home feel like a fine dining restaurant!
Ingredients
Here are the ingredients you will need for this creamy saffron pasta:
- Saffron threads: Use high-quality saffron for the best saffron flavor.
- Hot water
- Pasta: A thick pasta like pappardelle pasta will work best for this sauce. You can use homemade pasta or store bought pasta.
- Butter: Use unsalted butter.
- Garlic Cloves
- Heavy cream: You can substitute with coconut milk.
- Kosher Salt
- Red pepper flakes
- Basil: Use fresh basil for the best flavor.
Directions
Let's make this pasta with a creamy saffron sauce together!
Step 1: Using a mortar and pestle, gently crush the saffron threads. Pour the hot water over the crushed saffron threads and allow it to sit for 15 minutes.
Step 2: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pappardelle and cook for 6-7 minutes, or until al dente.
Step 3: Meanwhile in a large skillet over medium heat, melt the butter. Add the saffron water and garlic and sauté for 3 minutes, or until fragrant.
Step 4: Add the heavy cream, salt and a pinch of red pepper flakes. Stir well.
Step 5: Use tongs to transfer the pappardelle directly to the pan with the cream sauce. Toss vigorously for 1-2 minutes, or until the pasta is fully coated with the sauce. Add reserved pasta water 1 tablespoon at a time, if needed.
Step 6: Top with fresh basil, serve and enjoy!
Expert Tips and Tricks
Here are some expert tips to make this pasta and saffron cream sauce recipe:
- Use your fingers - If you do not have a mortar and pestle, use your fingers to gently crush the saffron threads in a small bowl. Crushing the saffron threads helps to release their flavor, so don’t skip this step!
- Reserve pasta water - You may need to loosen the sauce a bit and it’s best to use the starchy water that the pasta was cooked in. After you transfer the pappardelle to the sauce, don’t get rid of the water right away.
- Cook the pasta al dente - Just as the recipe says, cook the pasta al dente. It will continue to cook in the sauce, so cooking it al dente will prevent it from being over done.
- Spice level - Adjust the heat by adding more or less red pepper flakes, or try a pinch of cayenne pepper for an extra kick.
- Complete the meal - Complete the meal with your favorite dry white wine, grilled chicken, and a green salad.
Kitchen Equipment
Here is some kitchen equipment you will need for this saffron pasta recipe. You can find all of these products on Amazon.
- Mortar and pestle - You can use a mortar and pestle in so many different ways. It's great for grinding spices, making pesto, or making guacamole.
- Saffron - You can find saffron threads at your local grocery store, but if you're having trouble finding the spice, you can buy it on Amazon here!
- Large Sauté Pan - A large sauté pan is a staple in any home cook's kitchen.
Recipe Substitutions/Variations
Here are some common recipe substitutions and variations for this recipe.
Pappardelle: You can use other pasta shapes like fettuccine or linguine if pappardelle isn’t available. Just adjust the cooking time according to the pasta package instructions.
Basil: If you don’t have fresh basil, try using parsley or thyme for a different herbal note.
Additions: For added protein, toss in cooked chicken, shrimp, or even sautéed mushrooms. Add vegetables like cherry tomatoes, spinach, or peas to the sauce for extra flavor and nutrition.
Cream: To make the sauce lighter, you can substitute half of the heavy cream with vegetable broth or chicken broth.
What To Serve With
Here are some recipes that would be great to serve alongside this pasta dish:
Roasted Portobello Mushrooms: This Roasted Portobello Mushrooms recipe features slices of hearty mushroom caps seasoned with a blend of herbs and spices. With a tender, juicy texture and a rich flavor, these mushrooms are a perfect side dish or a tasty appetizer. You'll find yourself reaching for this simple yet flavorful recipe again and again.
Boursin Stuffed Mushrooms: These Boursin Stuffed Mushrooms are a fantastic bite sized treat. Baby bella mushroom caps are generously filled with a mix of Boursin cheese, parmesan, panko breadcrumbs, and a blend of thyme and rosemary.
Roast Pumpkin Salad: This Roast Pumpkin Salad recipe is a delicious and perfect blend of flavors and textures. Made with tender roasted pumpkin, tangy feta cheese, crunchy pepitas, and a zesty homemade dressing. This simple salad recipe is gorgeous, satisfying and perfect for any of your fall lunches or dinners.
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, you can make the sauce ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator. Just reheat it gently before tossing with freshly cooked pasta.
For the best flavor in this recipe, use high-quality, pure saffron threads. Saffron powder or blends may not provide the same depth of flavor, so stick with whole threads to ensure an authentic and rich taste.
Saffron has a unique taste that’s a mix of earthy, floral, and a touch of sweetness. It’s pretty subtle but adds a rich, special flavor to dishes that really makes them stand out.
Recipe Storage and Reheating
Here are storage and reheating instructions for this saffron pasta.
Refrigerator Storage: Store in an airtight container and eat leftovers within 4-5 days.
Freezer Storage: Freeze in a freezer-safe, airtight container and keep for up to 3 months. When you're ready to use, thaw in the refrigerator and reheat as instructed below.
Reheating Instructions: The best way to reheat this recipe is to heat in a skillet with a little olive oil over low heat until warm.
Other Pasta Recipes to Try
Saffron Pasta Recipe
Ingredients
- ½ teaspoon saffron threads
- ⅓ cup hot water
- 1 lb pappardelle
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 3 cloves garlic minced
- ½ cup heavy cream
- ½ teaspoon salt
- Pinch red pepper flakes
- Fresh basil for serving
Instructions
- Gently crush saffron threads with a mortar and pestle. Alternatively, crush threads in a small bowl with your fingers. Pour hot water over saffron and let sit for 15 minutes.
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add pappardelle and cook for 6-7 minutes, until al dente.
- Meanwhile, add butter to a pan over medium heat. Stir until melted, then add the saffron water mixture and garlic to the skillet. Sauté for 3 minutes, until fragrant.
- Add heavy cream, salt, and a pinch of red pepper flakes to the skillet. Stir well, use tongs to transfer the pappardelle directly from the pot to the skillet. Toss vigorously, for 1-2 minutes, until the pasta is coated in the sauce. Add pasta water, 1 tablespoon at a time, if needed.
- Top with fresh basil and serve.
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