Creamy Tomato Garlic Pasta is a delightful dish that combines rich flavors and comforting textures, making it a favorite among pasta lovers. This dish features a luscious sauce of tomatoes and cream infused with aromatic garlic, beautifully coating al dente pasta. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a cozy gathering with friends, this recipe is an easy way to impress with minimal effort. Let’s dive into the details of making this scrumptious meal!
Recipe Information
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Servings: 4
- Difficulty Level: Easy
Nutrition Information
- Calories per serving: 550
- Protein: 12g
- Carbohydrates: 60g
- Fat: 30g
- Fiber: 3g
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 300mg
Why Make This Creamy Tomato Garlic Pasta
This Creamy Tomato Garlic Pasta stands out for its simplicity and flavor explosion. The combination of fresh ingredients creates a dish that’s not only fulfilling but also nourishing. The heavy cream adds a velvety softness, while the fresh tomatoes deliver a burst of brightness. Plus, with just a few ingredients, you can whip this up in under 30 minutes—ideal for busy evenings or spontaneous dinner guests. Whether enjoyed alone or paired with garlic bread and a crisp salad, this dish will surely satisfy your taste buds.
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:
Step 1: Preparation
Boil salted water in a large pot and cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Step 2: Sautéing Garlic
In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Sauté minced garlic until golden brown, assuring it becomes fragrant but doesn’t burn.
Step 3: Cooking Tomatoes
Add diced tomatoes, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Simmer for about 5 minutes until the tomatoes start to soften and their juices are released, creating a rich sauce.
Step 4: Mixing the Sauce
Lower the heat and stir in the heavy cream until well blended, forming a creamy mixture that envelops the tomatoes and garlic.
Step 5: Tossing the Pasta
Toss the cooked pasta in the sauce until everything is evenly coated. This is where the magic happens as the pasta absorbs the flavors.
Step 6: Finishing Touches
Serve the pasta topped with fresh basil and optional grated Parmesan cheese for an extra savory kick.
How to Serve Creamy Tomato Garlic Pasta
This pasta is best enjoyed fresh, but you can elevate it even further by pairing it with a side salad or garlic bread. For special occasions, consider serving it in a bowl garnished with extra basil and a drizzle of olive oil for a beautiful presentation.
How to Store Creamy Tomato Garlic Pasta
If you have any leftovers, they can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of cream or water to regain the creamy consistency.
Expert Tips for Perfect Creamy Tomato Garlic Pasta
- Use fresh, ripe tomatoes for the best flavor. If they’re out of season, canned San Marzano tomatoes can also work great!
- Feel free to add protein such as grilled chicken or shrimp for a heartier meal.
- Watch the garlic closely while sautéing; it can quickly turn from perfectly golden to burnt.
- For a vegetarian version, replace heavy cream with coconut cream or a cashew cream for a lighter choice.
Delicious Variations
- Add spinach or arugula for a nutrition boost and added color.
- Spice it up with red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños for a kick.
- Swap out the basil with parsley or thyme for a different herbaceous flavor.
Frequently Asked Questions
-
Can I use a different type of pasta?
Yes! Any pasta shape works, such as penne, rigatoni, or even gluten-free options. -
How can I make this dish vegan?
Substitute heavy cream with coconut cream or any plant-based cream, and choose pasta without eggs. -
Can I prepare the sauce in advance?
Absolutely! You can make the sauce a day ahead and simply reheat it when you are ready to serve. -
Is this recipe good for meal prep?
Yes, it stores well, making it an excellent choice for meal prep. Just store the sauce separately if possible. -
How do I enhance the flavor further?
Consider adding freshly cracked black pepper or a splash of white wine to the sauce for extra depth.
Conclusion
Creamy Tomato Garlic Pasta is a comforting and indulgent dish that’s easy to whip up any night of the week. With its rich flavors and simple preparation, it’s sure to become a staple in your meal rotation. Gather your ingredients and give this recipe a try—you won’t be disappointed! Embrace the joy of cooking and enjoy this delicious pasta with your loved ones.
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Creamy Tomato Garlic Pasta
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A delightful dish combining rich flavors with creamy tomatoes and garlic, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner.
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
Instructions
- 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 and fragrant.
- Add diced tomatoes, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Simmer for about 5 minutes until the tomatoes start to soften.
- Lower the heat and stir in the heavy cream until well blended.
- Toss the cooked pasta in the sauce until evenly coated.
- Serve topped with fresh basil and optional grated Parmesan cheese.
Notes
Use fresh tomatoes for best flavor; opt for canned San Marzano if out of season. Consider adding protein like grilled chicken or shrimp.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 550
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 300mg
- Fat: 30g
- Saturated Fat: 18g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 60g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 12g
- Cholesterol: 100mg
