Creamy Spicy Tomato Pasta

Method

1. Step 1

   Heat oil or butter in a big pan over medium heat. Add onion, celery, and carrot. Cook until soft. Add a pinch of salt. If it looks dry, add a splash of water to help them cook.

2. Step 2

   Add the garlic, chili, and a sprig of fresh basil. Stir and cook for 1 minute until you can smell them.

3. Step 3

   In a separate pot, boil water with plenty of salt. Cook your pasta until tender. Save the pasta water!

4. Step 4

   Push vegetables to the side. Add tomato paste and cook for 2 minutes until dark red. Pour in the canned tomatoes and extra basil. Add a tiny bit of salt and pepper (remember, pasta water has salt too).

5. Step 5

   When the sauce bubbles, add a splash of warm pasta water. Stir well. This helps the sauce stick to the pasta.

6. Step 6

   Put the cooked pasta into the sauce pan. Pour in the double cream and stir until the sauce turns a nice reddish-orange color.

7. Step 7

   Taste it. Add more salt or pepper if needed. Take out the basil sprig, top with cheese, and enjoy!