Makhani Masala Pasta - Creamy Indian Fusion Pasta

What is Makhani Masala Pasta

Makhani Masala Pasta is a fun Indian-Italian fusion dish. It is pasta coated in creamy tomato sauce with rich, silky texture and classic Indian flavors. It’s basically your favorite comfort-food pasta with a flavorful Indian makeover—creamy, saucy, mildly spicy, and totally crave-worthy. Perfect for anyone who loves trying familiar foods with a fun fusion twist...sophisticated and delicious.

This Indian Italian Fusion Pasta

• is vegan and can be made gluten-free ( choose GF pasta variety)
• is one-pot meal - either stove top or Instant Pot
• comes together in 20 minutes
• makes a comforting flavorful fusion pasta meal loved by all.

Ingredients

• Pasta - For this pasta recipe, I used bow tie -farfalle pasta. You can choose any shape of small pasta. To make this recipe gluten free, choose GF pasta variety. Adjust cooking time accordingly.
• Makhani Sauce Spices - To flavor the pasta, I have used few spices like garam masala, cardamom powder, red chili powder and kasuri methi for taste and fragrance.
• Veggies - For the sauce, we are using onion paste (sweet onion blended with water), tomato sauce, and minced garlic and ginger. I am also using 2 cups of frozen mixed vegetables. You can use any of your favorite vegetables
• Cashew Paste - For the creaminess, I am using cashew paste. Blend ½ cup of cashews with ½ cup water and make smooth paste. It adds earthy, nutty flavors and velvety rich texture. To make it nut free, use coconut milk or heavy cream.
• Optional Garnishes: Cream (use coconut cream for vegan) and fresh cilantro leaves.

Instructions

1. Cook the pasta according to the package directions until al dente. Reserve a little pasta water before draining.
2. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ginger and garlic and sauté for a minute until fragrant.
3. Next, add the onion-cashew paste. Cook for a few minutes, stirring often, until the raw smell disappears and the mixture becomes slightly thick.
4. Add the mixed vegetables and cook until they are tender but still have a little bite.
5. Add the tomato sauce and Indian spices. Stir well and let the sauce simmer for a few minutes. This gives the spices time to blend with the tomato base. Stir until the sauce becomes smooth and creamy.
6. Lower the heat and add the cooked pasta and toss everything together. If the sauce feels too thick, add a splash of reserved pasta water until it reaches your preferred consistency.
7. Taste and adjust the salt and spices. Garnish with cream, and cilantro. Serve hot.

Pasta and the sauce thickens as it cools down. Add warm water and mix well before serving.

Serving Suggestions

This pasta makes one pot complete meal all by itself. Typically pasta is served with a simple side green salad and crusty baguette on the side. That will be perfect pairing here too.

For more elaborate meal, you can serve this pasta with different side dishes. Air Fryer Garlic Toast or Italian Bruschetta is perfect appetizer/ side.

You can also use Vegan Olive Tapenade on toast. Air fryer roasted vegetables like Bombay Potatoes, asparagus, mushrooms or broccoli will make it nutrient rich healthy meal.

For more elaborate party food, here's a fusion menu. Serve this Indian masala pasta with Pineapple Jalapeno Flatbread Pizza or Naan Pizza. Add in Mushroom Risotto and Pasta Fresca. and  Serve it along with Guava Mocktail or Saffron Lemonade. Finish it off with Classic Eggless Tiramisu or Biscoff Tiramisu.

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Suitable for Picky Eaters

This by far is the most favorite pasta recipe for kids. I often make this recipe for potlucks, BBQs or picnics and get tons of compliments especially from kids every time.

Most kids love pasta. They feel special when you have some interesting meal especially for them. Plus it's a great way to include full serving of veggies in their meal.

Your kids will love this pasta in their lunch boxes. I often pack it in warm thermos so it stays moist and creamy.

When I’m looking for a restaurant quality meal in the comfort of my own home, I turn to this creamy farfalle pasta loaded with flavors. It’s quick to make and the sauce is SO incredibly delicious.