Type of pasta 

You can use any medium Pasta shape or Spaghetti. Here are some great options:

• Orecchiette
• Orzo
• Conchiglie
• Whole wheat Pasta
• Chickpea Pasta
• Spaghetti or Linguine
• Farfalle
• Fusilli  

All of the above work well and they hold more of that creamy sauce because of their shape.  Ravioli or Tortellini also work well with creamy sauces.

Top Tips and FAQs 

Boil the Pasta less then the pack suggests I like to boil the pasta for 2 minutes less as it will continue to cook in the sauce. Grate Cheese  Pre grated Cheeses usually have a coating on them which stops them from clumping together in the bag but it also stops them from melting as effectively. As you can see from the ingredient pics, I do use it sometimes if I am in a rush. Use Pasta Water  Pasta Water helps the sauce to emulsify which makes it cling to the pasta better. I only use a ladleful of reserved pasta water and not a cup of pasta cooking water in this recipe. Cheese  Use your favourite hard Cheese here.

What can I use if I don’t have Harissa?

You can use any Spicy Pepper Paste, Tomato paste, Gochuchang, Chipotle Paste, Sambal Olek, Sun-dried tomato paste or Roast Red Pepper Paste.

The difference between normal Harissa and Rose Harissa

Rose Harissa contains Rose Petals. It does not taste like Rose essence or extract and isn’t in any way overpowering. It has a subtle aroma and is so delicious! I don't always use it but when I can get my hands on it, I will choose it over other Harissa Pastes any time.

What to do with leftover Harissa Paste?

Harissa Paste can be added to a number of recipes in place of tomato puree. You can also add it to Shakshuka, Menemen with Feta - Turkish Scrambled Eggs or Gigli pasta with Chickpeas.

Is Rose Harissa Paste Gluten Free?

Yes Rose Harissa is gluten free.

Serving Suggestions

This divine spicy and creamy harissa pasta is  a complete meal in itself but can be served with sides.  It makes for an ideal weeknight dinner, or a quick sunday night meal.  Why not try it with crusty bread, garlic bread a green salad or a salad with Kalamata olives scattered throughout.

Variations

Onions - You can use diced Shallots, White or Red Onions. Nuts - Add a couple of tablespoon of toasted nuts like Pine Nuts. Cumin Seeds - Add a pinch of Cumin Seeds at the beginning and saute with the onions to add another layer of flavour. Harissa Paste - You can use Rose Harissa, Smoked Harissa or a standard Harissa. You can also use any hot chili paste, sundried tomato paste, You can also use a Harissa Powder instead. If you do that, reduce the quantity by ½. Pasta Shapes – You can use any shape Pasta that you like – See options above.  Make Harissa Pasta Bake – Layer the Pasta and Cheese into a dish and bake with more cheese added on top.  Add Protein – Stir in your favourite cooked protein at the end, such as Chicken, Ground Beef or Lamb, Prawns. Veggies – Add Red Bell Peppers, Aubergines, Courgettes, Mushrooms, Sweetcorn, Broccoli or Leafy Greens such as Spinach, Chard or Kale. Fresh Herbs - Serve with some fresh Basil or Thyme. Seeds and Nuts – Feel free to stir in toasted seeds/nuts. Seasonings – Add spices or seasonings of your choice. Sauces – Stir in some Hot Sauce or Chilli Oil at the end. Lemon –  Add Lemon Juice or the zest of a Lemon. Make it Gluten Free - Use Gluten free pasta such as Pea Pasta or Chickpea Pasta. Make it Vegan - To make Vegan Harissa Pasta, use a Vegan Cream or Cashew Cream by soaking and blending cashews. Cream - Use 2 tablespoon creme fraiche instead to give it a slightly sour tang. You can also use creamy Mascarpone instead or a spoonful of Greek Yoghurt. If using Yoghurt or Creme Fraiche, stir them in at the very end. Oil - You can reduce the quantity of oil if you prefer.

Easy, Creamy & Spicy Harissa Pasta - Make Ahead

It is a good idea to make Harissa pasta ahead as it stores well. It can be made up to 5 days ahead and enjoyed throughout the week.

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Pasta keeps well in a sealed airtight container in the fridge for 5 days. To reheat, add a splash of water before reheating on the hob or in the microwave.

How to freeze 

Freeze in an airtight container for up to 3 months.  Defrost in the fridge overnight and reheat gently in the microwave or stove top.