Blended with garlic, white wine, butter, cream, Parmesan, and a touch of lemon, this saffron cream sauce turns any pasta into a silky, restaurant-worthy dish Swipe to make them!
WHY YOU'LL LOVE THIS RECIPE
Steeping the saffron first brings out its floral, earthy aroma, and combining it with butter, wine, and cream gives you a sauce that's both comforting and luxurious
INGREDIENTS FOR THE SAUCE
– Saffron threads
– Boiling water
– Olive oil
– Garlic
– White wine
– Butter
– Heavy cream
– Parmesan cheese
– Lemon juice
– Pasta
Place saffron threads in a small ramekin and pour ¼ cup boiling water over them. Let steep while you prepare everything else.
STEP 1: BLOOM THE SAFFRON
STEP 2: COOK THE PASTA
Boil pasta in salted water until al dente. Reserve 1 cup pasta water before draining.
STEP 3: SAUTÉ THE GARLIC
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the garlic and cook gently for 1–2 minutes.
STEP 4: DEGLAZE WITH WHITE WINE
Lower heat slightly.
Pour in the white wine and let it simmer 1–2 minutes until reduced by half
STEP 5: EMULSIFY WITH BUTTER
Add butter in three additions, whisking constantly so it melts into a smooth, glossy sauce.
STEP 6: ADD SAFFRON
Pour in the saffron threads along with the steeping liquid. Simmer for 2 minutes to infuse the sauce with color and flavor.
STEP 7: ADD CREAM & PARMESAN
Stir in the cream and bring to a gentle simmer.
Add Parmesan and lemon juice. Let the sauce bubble gently until slightly thickened.
STEP 8: TOSS WITH PASTA
Add cooked pasta directly into the sauce.
Toss well to coat, simmering 1–2 minutes. Serve immediately with extra Parmesan and a sprinkle of lemon zest if desired.
PRO TIPS
- Bloom the saffron properly for a deep golden hue
- Thin the sauce with pasta water if needed
- Add sliced chicken for creamy saffron chicken pasta
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