Go Back
harissa pasta1

Harissa Pasta

Dmitri Magi
Try my Harissa Pasta! Quick and easy, it features tender chicken, cherry tomatoes, and a luscious harissa-infused sauce balanced with creamy Philadelphia and double cream. Perfect for weeknight dinners, it’s comfort food with a bold kick. Let’s make it!
Calories: 565 | Protein: 35g | Carbs: 45g | Fat: 20g
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Course Main Course
Cuisine Italian
Servings 2
Calories 565 kcal

Equipment

  • Large pot for boiling pasta
  • Frying pan or skillet
  • Wooden spoon or spatula
  • Knife and cutting board
  • Measuring spoons and cups

Ingredients
  

  • For the Pasta:
  • 150 g pasta
  • 1 diced red onion
  • 250 g chicken breast diced
  • 50 g cherry tomatoes halved
  • 70 g Philadelphia Lightest
  • 1 tbsp tomato puree
  • 1 tbsp reduced-fat double cream
  • 20 g harissa paste
  • Handful of spinach
  • 2 crushed garlic cloves
  • 1 tsp paprika
  • 1 tsp Italian herbs
  • For Toppings:
  • Grated Parmesan
  • Chopped parsley

Instructions
 

  • Step 1: Cook the Pasta. Boil the pasta in salted water or add a stock cube for extra flavor. Cook until al dente, then reserve 100ml of the pasta water before draining.
  • Step 2: Sauté the Onions and Garlic. Heat a frying pan over medium heat with low-calorie cooking spray. Sauté the diced red onion until softened, about 3-4 minutes. Add the crushed garlic and fry for 30 seconds.
  • Step 3: Cook the Chicken. Add the diced chicken to the pan and cook until browned on all sides, about 5-6 minutes.
  • Step 4: Build the Sauce. Add the paprika, Italian herbs, harissa paste, and tomato puree to the pan. Stir well and cook for 1-2 minutes to release the flavors. Add the cherry tomatoes and 100ml of reserved pasta water. Let the mixture simmer until the water reduces slightly.
  • Step 5: Make it Creamy. Stir in the Philadelphia and double cream, mixing until smooth and creamy. Allow the sauce to simmer gently while the pasta finishes cooking.
  • Step 6: Combine Everything. Add the cooked pasta and spinach to the sauce. Stir well to coat the pasta evenly and allow the spinach to wilt.
  • Step 7: Serve. Plate the pasta and top with grated Parmesan and chopped parsley for a fresh and cheesy finish.

Notes

  • Don’t Overcook the Pasta: Al dente pasta holds up better in the sauce and adds a perfect bite.
  • Adjust the Heat: Harissa can be spicy, so add less if you prefer a milder flavor.
  • Save the Pasta Water: The starchy water helps create a silky, cohesive sauce.