ARTICHOKE HEARTS & CREAM PASTA SAUCE

Easy
Prep: 10 min, Cook 15 min

Combines artichoke hearts in a blush sauce for a delicious and satisfying dish that is quick and easy to prepare.

INGREDIENTS:

1 lb (package) pasta of your choice; dish works well with fettucine, farfalle, or penne
1 package frozen artichoke hearts in pieces, thoroughly defrosted, drained and dried off on paper towels
1 medium onion finely chopped
3 TBSP unsalted butter
2 TBSP Italian tomato paste
Small piece peperocini or 1/2 tsp pepper flakes (optional)
1/4 to 1 cup half and half
1/3 cup grated Parmesan or pecorino, with extra to pass at table
Salt
Freshly ground black pepper

Pan or skillet large enough to accomodate sauce and pasta for a 'pan' finish, pasta pot.

SET pasta water to boil.

HEAT butter in large skillet.

ADD onions and peperoncino, sauté over medium low heat till soft, stirring occasionally with a wooden spoon, about 10 minutes

ADD artichoke hearts, sauté five minutes more stirring frequently.

ADD tomato paste and stir.

COOK your pasta.

ADD half and half, bring to a simmer. Simmer lightly over low heat for 5 minutes.

ADD 1/2 tsp salt; couple of grinds of pepper; cheese.

SIMMER a further minute or two adding some pasta cooking water if needed. Taste for seasoning.

ADD pasta to sauce in skillet, toss well.

SERVE onto warmed plates.

PASS grated Parmesan at table.

ARTICHOKE HEARTS IN CREAM BLUSH SAUCE