My Secret Shame, Your Next Obsession: Rigatoni with Peanut Butter Sauce (Yes, Really!)

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Flavour Rebellion or Genius? Confessions of a Peanut Butter Pasta Addict

This recipe was first shared in August 2020 and has been fully revised and republished with new photos and tips.

Alright, confession time. I’m about to drop a culinary bombshell that might make you question my sanity, but hear me out. For years, I’ve been secretly, unabashedly, obsessed with… Rigatoni with Peanut Butter Sauce. Yes, you read that right. Peanut butter. On pasta. And no, I haven't lost a bet. Or my mind. (Mostly.) I know what you’re thinking: "Did they run out of tomato sauce? Is this a desperate college student meal?" To all that, I say: Potentially, maybe, and emphatically YES! But here's the kicker: it's also unbelievably delicious. Before you judge me for this slightly unhinged creation, let me tell you why this is about to become your new quick dinner recipe obsession.

The Unlikely Love Story: Peanut Butter Meets Pasta

My journey to this culinary revelation started, as many questionable decisions do, with a severe lack of time and an abundance of peanut butter. Desperation, the mother of invention, led to the question: "What if I just... put peanut butter on that?" The result? A creamy, savoury, slightly nutty concoction that hits every right note. It's comforting, fulfilling, and surprisingly sophisticated for something that sounds like a dare.

Speed Demon Status 

From pantry to plate in under 15 minutes. This is the ultimate simple weeknight meal for when you're too tired to even think about cooking. It’s faster than delivery and requires minimal effort.

Budget-Friendly Brilliance Flavour Bomb Surprise

Pasta and peanut butter are staples. This is a practically a student friendly recipe given its cost-effectiveness. Your wallet will thank you.

Flavour Bomb Surprise 

When the rich, savoury notes of the peanut butter are thinned with that liquid gold starchy pasta water - and lime zest, it transforms. The velvety sauce clings to every groove of the rigatoni, delivering a satisfying, complex hug with every bite.

⭐️ Prep Time: 5 minutes
⏱ Cook Time: 15 minutes
🍴 Serves: 4

The Recipe: Rigatoni with My "Don't Knock It 'Til Ya Try It" Sauce

What you'll need: (The Essentials):

250g dried rigatoni

salt

2 tbsp olive oil

2 onions, peeled and finely chopped

2 cloves garlic, peeled and crushed

1 tbsp grated lemon rind

4 tbsp smooth peanut butter

175 ml  milk

freshly ground black pepper

4 tbsp freshly chopped mixed herbs, such as parsley, basil or tarragon

The Shenanigans (Instructions)

1. Cook pasta in plenty of salted boiling water as directed by package instructions.

2. Meanwhile, gently fry the onion, garlic and lemon rind in the the olive oil in a large non-stick pan.

3. Gradually stir in the peanut butter and milk and bring to boil, adding a little more milk if sauce becomes too thick.

4. Drain the pasta and return to pan with sauce.  Toss together well and season with pepper.  Serve sprinkled with freshly chopped herbs.

5. Sprinkle some extra chopped peanuts on top for some extra crunch (if desired)

Tips from a Peanut Butter Pasta Enthusiast

To elevate the absurdity, try adding protein like cooked chicken or tofu for a robust, high calorie meal prep option. Stir in some steamed broccoli or spinach for colour, and a final dash of chili oil really cuts through the richness, elevating the flavour profile.

A dish that defies expectations and delivers on taste, speed, and affordability. If you're looking for an easy pasta dish that’s a little bit out there but surprisingly delicious, I implore you: give this Rigatoni with Peanut Butter Sauce a try. You might just discover your new favorite bizarre addiction.