Creamy Tomato Garlic Pasta
why make this recipe
Creamy Tomato Garlic Pasta is a comforting and delicious dish that can be made in no time. It combines the rich flavors of fresh tomatoes and garlic with a creamy sauce that makes every bite delightful. Perfect for a family dinner or a quick meal, this pasta is both satisfying and easy to prepare.
how to make Creamy Tomato Garlic Pasta
Ingredients:
- 8 oz spaghetti or fettuccine
- 1 cup ripe tomatoes (diced)
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 4 cloves fresh garlic (minced)
- 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
- 1/4 cup fresh basil (chopped)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Directions:
- Boil salted water in a large pot and cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Sauté minced garlic until golden brown.
- Add diced tomatoes, salt, and pepper. Simmer for about 5 minutes.
- Lower the heat and stir in heavy cream until well blended.
- Toss cooked pasta in the sauce until evenly coated.
- Serve topped with fresh basil and optional grated Parmesan cheese.
how to serve Creamy Tomato Garlic Pasta
Serve the Creamy Tomato Garlic Pasta hot, garnished with fresh basil leaves. You can also add grated Parmesan cheese on top for extra flavor. This dish pairs wonderfully with a simple green salad or some garlic bread on the side.
how to store Creamy Tomato Garlic Pasta
If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The pasta is best enjoyed within 2-3 days. To reheat, you can place it in a skillet on low heat and add a splash of milk or water to help loosen the sauce.
tips to make Creamy Tomato Garlic Pasta
- Use fresh, ripe tomatoes for the best flavor. If they’re out of season, canned diced tomatoes can also work well.
- Feel free to adjust the amount of garlic depending on your taste preference.
- For a bit of heat, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes while sautéing the garlic.
- To make it more nutritious, you can add cooked vegetables like spinach or bell peppers to the pasta.
variation
You can swap out the heavy cream for a lighter option, such as half-and-half or a plant-based cream alternative for a different twist. Adding cooked chicken or shrimp can make this dish heartier.
FAQs
1. Can I use a different type of pasta?
Yes, you can use any pasta you prefer! Penne, rigatoni, or even gluten-free pasta will work well.
2. How can I make this dish vegetarian?
This recipe is already vegetarian since it contains no meat. Just ensure that any cheese you use is vegetarian-friendly.
3. What can I substitute for heavy cream?
If you want a lighter option, you can use half-and-half, whole milk, or a non-dairy cream alternative.
4. Is it okay to freeze this pasta?
Freezing is not recommended due to the cream content. The sauce may separate upon thawing. It’s best enjoyed fresh!
Creamy Tomato Garlic Pasta
Ingredients
Pasta
- 8 oz spaghetti or fettuccine Any pasta can be used.
Sauce Ingredients
- 1 cup ripe tomatoes (diced) Use fresh, ripe tomatoes for the best flavor.
- 1 cup heavy cream Can be substituted with half-and-half or plant-based cream.
- 4 cloves fresh garlic (minced) Adjust according to taste preference.
- 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil For sautéing garlic.
- 1/4 cup fresh basil (chopped) For garnish.
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
Cooking the Pasta
- Boil salted water in a large pot and cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Making the Sauce
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Sauté minced garlic until golden brown.
- Add diced tomatoes, salt, and pepper. Simmer for about 5 minutes.
- Lower the heat and stir in heavy cream until well blended.
Combining
- Toss cooked pasta in the sauce until evenly coated.
- Serve topped with fresh basil and optional grated Parmesan cheese.
