Name: Creamy Basil Calabrian Chili: 6 Reasons You'll Love It
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 1 pound Cavatelli pasta; 2 tablespoons Unsalted butter; 2 medium Shallots; 3 cloves Garlic; 1 teaspoon Kosher salt; 1 teaspoon Fennel seeds; 2 tablespoons Tomato paste; 1 tablespoon Calabrian chili peppers; 1 cup Heavy cream; 1/4 cup Fresh basil leaves; 2 tablespoons Chopped fresh oregano; 1/2 cup Freshly grated parmesan cheese; to taste Freshly cracked black pepper

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Creamy Basil Calabrian Chili is a delightful dish that balances the richness of cream with the bold flavors of Calabrian chili. This dish is not only a feast for the taste buds but also a perfect comfort food for cozy dinners. The creamy texture combined with the spicy kick of Calabrian chili peppers creates a culinary experience that you won’t forget. Let’s dive into the world of flavors and learn how to make this delicious dish!

Why You’ll Love This Creamy Basil Calabrian Chili

This dish brings together various elements that make it stand out. First, the creamy texture offers a comforting mouthfeel, perfect for any occasion. Second, the use of Calabrian chili with cream provides a unique flavor that’s both spicy and savory. Third, it’s a versatile recipe that can easily be turned into a Creamy Basil Pasta with Calabrian Chili or served as a Basil and Chili Dip Recipe. Fourth, it’s quick to prepare, taking only 25 minutes from start to finish. Fifth, this recipe is vegetarian, making it suitable for various diets. Finally, it’s a fantastic way to introduce Calabrian chili into your cooking, enhancing your culinary repertoire.

Ingredients for Creamy Basil Calabrian Chili

Gather these items:

1 pound Cavatelli pasta
2 tablespoons Unsalted butter
2 medium Shallots
3 cloves Garlic
1 teaspoon Kosher salt
1 teaspoon Fennel seeds
2 tablespoons Tomato paste
1 tablespoon Calabrian chili peppers
1 cup Heavy cream
1/4 cup Fresh basil leaves
2 tablespoons Chopped fresh oregano
1/2 cup Freshly grated parmesan cheese
to taste Freshly cracked black pepper

How to Make Creamy Basil Calabrian Chili Step-by-Step

Step 1: Bring a large pot of heavily salted water to a rolling boil. While you wait, chop all your ingredients so everything is ready to go.
Step 2: Drop the cavatelli into the boiling water and cook for 1 minute less than the package’s instructions state, until al dente.
Step 3: Meanwhile, heat a 12” stainless steel skillet over medium heat. Add the butter and let it melt, then toss in the shallots. Cook for about 2 minutes before adding the garlic, cooking for another minute until caramelized and tender, stirring often. Season with a pinch of salt for flavor!
Step 4: Stir in the fennel seeds, tomato paste, and Calabrian chili peppers; cook for another minute. Pour in the heavy cream and retrieve ½ cup of starchy pasta water. Add it to the sauce and stir well to combine. Bring the sauce to a simmer and let it thicken slightly, about a minute.
Step 5: Add the fresh oregano and basil to the sauce, seasoning with another pinch of salt. Then, drain the pasta, add it directly to the sauce, and mix to combine. Gradually stir in the parmesan cheese until it melts and hugs the pasta. If the sauce is too loose, raise the heat and stir to thicken; if too thick, add a splash more pasta water!
Step 6: Plate the creamy cavatelli and finish with a sprinkle of freshly cracked black pepper on top. Optional: Sprinkle with extra basil leaves and parmesan for an elegant touch!

Pro Tips for the Best Creamy Basil Calabrian Chili

Keep these in mind:

Use fresh ingredients for the best flavor.
Adjust the amount of Calabrian chili based on your spice tolerance.
When storing leftovers, make sure to refrigerate within 2 hours.
Reheat gently on low heat to maintain creaminess.

Best Ways to Serve Creamy Basil Calabrian Chili

This dish pairs wonderfully with garlic bread or a fresh garden salad. For a more substantial meal, consider serving it with grilled chicken or shrimp. It also works beautifully as a spicy cream sauce for pizza, elevating your pizza night!

How to Store and Reheat Creamy Basil Calabrian Chili

To store leftovers, place them in an airtight container and refrigerate. You can keep it for up to 3 days. When it’s time to reheat, do so on low heat to prevent the cream from separating, making it perfect for meal prep!

Frequently Asked Questions About Creamy Basil Calabrian Chili

What’s the secret to perfect Creamy Basil Calabrian Chili?

The secret lies in balancing the creaminess with the right amount of Calabrian chili. Using fresh herbs like basil and oregano also enhances the flavor profile, creating a delicious spicy Calabrian chili cream.

Can I make Creamy Basil Calabrian Chili ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the sauce ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator. Just cook the pasta fresh when you are ready to serve for the best texture.

How do I avoid common mistakes with Creamy Basil Calabrian Chili?

To avoid common mistakes, ensure you don’t overcook the pasta. Also, add cream at a low simmer to prevent curdling, ensuring a luscious creamy basil chili sauce.

Variations of Creamy Basil Calabrian Chili You Can Try

There are many twists you can try with this recipe. For a vegan version, substitute heavy cream with coconut cream and use nutritional yeast instead of parmesan. You can also incorporate roasted red peppers for added sweetness or mix in spinach for a nutritious boost. Each variation highlights the Italian cuisine aspect while keeping the core flavors intact!

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