Pairing: Creamy Pasta Dishes

Creamy pasta dishes, like Alfredo, Carbonara, or Fettuccine, are rich, indulgent meals with a velvety texture. The creaminess from butter, cream, and cheese creates a luxurious mouthfeel, making them ideal for pairing with wines that balance the richness without overwhelming the palate. Wines with good acidity, such as a Chardonnay or Pinot Grigio, help cut through the fat, while adding complementary flavors that enhance the dish. The right wine pairing will elevate the meal, bringing out the flavors of the sauce and providing a refreshing contrast to its creamy texture.

Recipe

Ingredients

  • Pasta (Fettuccine, Spaghetti, or Penne): Serves as the foundation of the dish, soaking up the creamy sauce.
  • Heavy Cream: Provides richness and the signature creamy texture of the sauce.
  • Parmesan Cheese: Adds savory umami flavors and depth to the dish.
  • Butter: Enhances the creaminess and adds richness.
  • Garlic: Offers a mild, aromatic base to balance the richness of the cream.
  • Fresh Herbs (like parsley): Brightens the dish and adds a fresh contrast to the heavy sauce.

Instructions

  1. Cook the pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the fettuccine and cook until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water, then drain the pasta.
  2. Make the sauce: In a large pan, melt butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and cook for 1 minute, until fragrant. Stir in the heavy cream and bring to a simmer.
  3. Add the cheese: Lower the heat and gradually whisk in grated Parmesan until melted and the sauce is smooth. Add a splash of pasta water to achieve the desired consistency.
  4. Combine: Toss the cooked pasta in the sauce, coating it thoroughly. Season with salt and pepper, and garnish with fresh parsley.
  5. Serve: Serve hot with extra Parmesan on the side.

Serve With

Chardonnay, Pinot Grigio

Learn More About the Best Pairings

Chardonnay

Chardonnay is one of the most popular and widely planted white wine grape varieties in the world.

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Pinot Grigio

Also known as Pinot Gris, is a versatile white wine made from grapes that are actually pinkish-grey in color.

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Samplers

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