Recipe: Penne with Spicy Cauliflower Sauce (using tomatoes and cream)

PENNE WITH SPICY CAULIFLOWER SAUCE

3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
2 cloves garlic, peeled
1 dried red chile pepper, more to taste
1 head cauliflower, trimmed and cut into walnut-size florets
1 (8 ounce) can peeled whole tomatoes and their juice
1 cup chicken stock or broth
1 pound uncooked penne
1 cup heavy (whipping) cream

Fill a large pot (for cooking the pasta) with water and season lightly with salt. Place over high heat and bring to a boil. When water comes to a boil, add penne and cook until al dente, about 8 minutes. Drain.

Meanwhile, place a large saute pan over medium heat. Heat olive oil until it shimmers, and add garlic and chile pepper. Cook for 1 minute.

Add cauliflower, season generously with salt, and toss to coat with oil. Saute for 5 minutes.

Add tomatoes to the cauliflower, crushing them in your fist as you add them. Simmer for 10 minutes.

Add chicken stock and continue simmering for 10 more minutes.

Add cream to cauliflower mixture and bring to a simmer.

Add drained pasta to cauliflower in pan. Toss well and adjust seasoning. Serve hot.

Makes 4 servings
Source: Top One Hundred Pasta Sauces by Diane Seed