Ingredients
Base Ingredients
- 3 garlic cloves (minced)
- 1 white onion (finely diced)
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1/2 tsp chilli flakes (adjust to spice tolerance)
Sauce Ingredients
- 150 g Boursin cheese (1 packet)
- 75 g sundried tomatoes (optional)
- 1 tbsp sundried tomato oil (optional, substitute olive oil if preferred)
- 300 ml chicken stock
- 1 tsp balsamic vinegar
- 1/2 tsp sugar
Pasta Ingredients
- 250 g spaghetti
- 1 tbsp parmesan (grated) plus extra for garnish
- 1 tbsp olive oil (for frying)
Instructions
- Prepare the aromatics: Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large pan or saucepan over medium heat. Add the finely diced onion and minced garlic, cooking for several minutes until softened and fragrant. Stir in paprika, dried oregano, and chili flakes to release their flavors.
- Blend the sauce base: In a blender, combine the Boursin cheese, sundried tomatoes, sundried tomato oil (or olive oil alternative), and 300 ml chicken stock. Blend until you achieve a smooth, creamy sauce.
- Combine sauce in pan: Pour the blended Boursin sauce into the pan with the sautéed aromatics. Add an additional 400 ml of water or stock, then stir in balsamic vinegar and sugar to balance the flavors.
- Cook the pasta: Submerge the spaghetti fully in the sauce mixture, cover the pan with a lid, and simmer for 10 minutes or according to pasta package instructions. Stir frequently to prevent sticking. Remove the lid during the last two minutes to allow the sauce to thicken to desired consistency. Add more water if needed to keep pasta from sticking before it is fully cooked.
- Finish and serve: Once pasta is cooked al dente and the sauce is luscious and thick, stir in the grated parmesan cheese. Divide the pasta into 2-3 bowls, garnish with extra parmesan and a sprinkle of chili flakes, then serve immediately.
Notes
- You can omit sundried tomatoes and their oil for a milder version.
- Adjust chili flakes based on your preferred spice level.
- Using chicken stock adds depth of flavor; vegetable stock can be substituted for a vegetarian option if replacing Boursin with a plant-based spread.
- Stir frequently while simmering to prevent pasta sticking or burning on the pan’s base.
- For extra creaminess, add a splash of cream or milk at the end if desired.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: European
