Pasta with Artichoke and Cilantro Sauce

Pasta with a creamy artichoke and cilantro sauce is a fresh, vibrant dish that brings together the unique flavors of artichokes and the herbal brightness of cilantro. The rich, smooth sauce coats the pasta perfectly, creating a dish that feels indulgent yet light. Whether you're looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a more refined meal to share with guests, this recipe offers a balance of creamy textures and fresh, bold flavors. Let’s walk through how to prepare this delicious pasta step by step.

Ingredients

For this pasta dish with artichoke and cilantro sauce, you will need:

• 300g of pasta (spaghetti, penne, or your favorite type)
• 1 can (400g) of artichoke hearts, drained
• 1 bunch of fresh cilantro, chopped
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• ½ cup vegetable broth
• ½ cup heavy cream or coconut milk for a dairy-free option
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Grated Parmesan cheese for garnish (optional)
• Extra cilantro for garnish

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Cook the Pasta

Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to the package instructions until it reaches an al dente texture. Once the pasta is done, reserve ½ cup of the pasta cooking water and drain the rest. Set the pasta aside while you prepare the sauce.

2. Sauté the Garlic and Onion

In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and chopped onion, cooking them for about 5-7 minutes until they become soft and fragrant. Stir occasionally to prevent burning. This will form the aromatic base of the sauce.

3. Prepare the Artichoke and Cilantro Sauce

Once the garlic and onion have softened, add the drained artichoke hearts to the skillet. Cook for another 5 minutes, allowing the artichokes to warm through and absorb the flavors. Add the vegetable broth and let the mixture simmer for a few minutes.

Transfer the artichoke, garlic, and onion mixture to a blender or food processor. Add the chopped cilantro and blend until smooth. If the mixture is too thick, you can add more broth or some of the reserved pasta water to achieve the desired consistency. The sauce should be creamy and smooth, with a vibrant green color from the cilantro.

4. Add the Cream and Lemon Juice

Return the blended sauce to the skillet. Stir in the heavy cream (or coconut milk for a dairy-free option) and lemon juice. Simmer the sauce for another 5 minutes to let the flavors meld together. Taste and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.

5. Combine the Pasta and Sauce

Add the cooked pasta to the skillet with the creamy artichoke and cilantro sauce. Toss the pasta gently to coat it evenly with the sauce. If the sauce is too thick, you can add a little of the reserved pasta water to thin it out. Stir until everything is well combined and heated through.

6. Garnish and Serve

Serve the pasta warm, garnished with extra chopped cilantro and a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese (if desired). The fresh cilantro adds a burst of color and flavor, enhancing the creamy artichoke sauce. For an extra touch, you can also add a few whole artichoke hearts on top of the pasta.

Tips for Perfect Pasta with Artichoke and Cilantro Sauce

• Blending the Sauce: Blend the sauce until completely smooth for a creamy texture, but if you prefer a chunkier sauce, you can pulse the ingredients instead of fully blending them.
• Using Fresh Artichokes: If you prefer, you can use fresh artichokes instead of canned. Steam or boil the artichokes until tender, then follow the same steps to prepare the sauce.
• Adjusting the Creaminess: If you like a lighter sauce, you can reduce the amount of cream or use a dairy-free alternative like coconut milk.

Variations and Additions

This pasta dish can be easily adapted to suit your taste preferences. Here are some ideas for variations:

• Add Protein: For a heartier meal, you can add grilled chicken, shrimp, or tofu to the dish.
• Include Vegetables: Roasted vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, or cherry tomatoes can add extra flavor and texture to the pasta.
• Spice it Up: If you enjoy a bit of heat, add red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the sauce for a spicy kick.

Serving Suggestions

Pasta with artichoke and cilantro sauce can be enjoyed on its own or paired with various side dishes:

• With Garlic Bread: Serve the pasta with warm garlic bread or a side of crusty bread to soak up the creamy sauce.
• With Salad: A light green salad with a lemon vinaigrette would complement the fresh flavors of the pasta.
• With Grilled Vegetables: Grilled or roasted vegetables make an excellent accompaniment, adding color and flavor to the meal.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Pasta with artichoke and cilantro sauce is a delicious blend of fresh, bold flavors and creamy textures. The rich artichoke sauce, combined with the herbal freshness of cilantro, creates a dish that’s both satisfying and light. It’s a versatile recipe that can be adapted with various proteins or vegetables, making it perfect for any occasion.

The simplicity of the ingredients means this dish can be prepared quickly, making it ideal for busy weeknights or when you need a flavorful meal in a short amount of time. Whether you’re serving it to family or guests, this pasta dish is sure to impress.

Final Thoughts

This creamy pasta with artichoke and cilantro sauce is a delightful and unique dish that combines the earthiness of artichokes with the fresh, zesty flavor of cilantro. The result is a smooth, velvety sauce that coats the pasta perfectly, creating a meal that’s both comforting and packed with flavor.

Whether you’re looking for a quick and easy weeknight dinner or a dish to serve at a gathering, this pasta recipe offers the perfect balance of flavor, texture, and freshness. Enjoy the bold, herbal notes of cilantro and the creamy richness of artichokes in every bite!