Paneer Tikka Pasta

East meets West in the most delicious way. What happens when your favourite Indian paneer tikka takes a cheesy Italian holiday? You get a bold, creamy, and utterly irresistible Paneer Tikka Pasta, a fusion dish that’s a hit with kids, teens, and adults alike. This recipe combines smoky spiced paneer with silky tomato sauce and pasta, creating a perfect weeknight meal or party showstopper. It's got the zing of Indian spices and the comfort of a pasta bowl, best of both worlds!

Ingredients:

For Paneer Tikka:

Paneer – 200 gm, cubed

Hung curd – 2 tbsp

Ginger-garlic paste – 1 tsp

Shalimar's Chef Spices Kashmiri red chilli powder – ½ tsp

Shalimar's Chef Spices Garam masala powder– ½ tsp

Shalimar's Chef Spices Turmeric powder– a pinch

Salt – to taste

Lemon juice – 1 tsp

Shalimar's Sunflower Oil – 1 tbsp

For Pasta:

Pasta (penne or fusilli) – 2 cups, boiled

Onion – 1 medium, chopped

Tomato puree – 1 cup

Garlic – 2 cloves, minced

Mixed herbs (oregano, thyme) – 1 tsp

Chilli flakes – optional

Cream – 2 tbsp

Cheese (grated) – 2 tbsp

Salt to taste

Shalimar's Chef Spices black pepper powder to taste

Butter or Shalimar's Sunflower oil – 1 tbsp

Method:

Marinate & Cook Paneer Tikka:

Mix curd, spices, lemon juice, and oil into a smooth marinade.

Add paneer cubes and coat well. Let it rest for 15–20 minutes.

Pan-fry or grill till golden and slightly charred. Keep aside.

Make the Pasta Base:

Heat butter/oil in a pan. Add minced garlic and chopped onion. Sauté until soft.

Pour in the tomato puree. Cook until thickened and oil separates.

Season with salt, pepper, herbs, and (if desired) chilli flakes.

Stir in cream and cheese for a rich finish.

Combine:

Toss in boiled pasta and cooked paneer tikka.

Mix well to coat. Cook on low heat for 2–3 minutes so everything blends beautifully.

Garnish with coriander or fresh basil. Serve hot!

Serving Tip:

Serve with garlic bread or a crunchy salad. For kids, you can skip chilli flakes and add some bell peppers or corn for extra colour and nutrition.