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Creamy Tomato Garlic Pasta
Creamy Tomato Garlic Pasta is one of those deliciously comforting dishes that can elevate any evening meal. I first stumbled upon this recipe on a busy weeknight when I needed something quick, yet flavorful. With just a handful of ingredients, it transforms simple spaghetti or fettuccine into a rich, creamy dish that’s bursting with the fresh flavors of ripe tomatoes and aromatic garlic. This pasta is not only easy to whip up but also kid-approved, making it the perfect choice for family dinners or even a laid-back weekend gathering with friends.
What Makes This Recipe Special
This Creamy Tomato Garlic Pasta stands out for several reasons. Firstly, it’s wonderfully quick to prepare—ideal for those hectic weeknights when you don’t want to spend hours in the kitchen. Secondly, it’s budget-friendly. With just a few staple ingredients, you can create a restaurant-worthy dish without breaking the bank. Finally, it’s both comforting and satisfying. The creamy sauce clings to each strand of pasta, making every bite a delightful experience.
"This Creamy Tomato Garlic Pasta became an instant hit with my family. It’s now a regular on our dinner table!" – A satisfied home cook
Step-by-Step Guide to Cooking It
Preparing Creamy Tomato Garlic Pasta is as straightforward as it gets. You’ll start by boiling the pasta, then create a luscious sauce enriched with ripe tomatoes and garlic. Here’s a brief overview of the process:
- Boil salted water and cook your pasta to al dente.
- Sauté garlic until golden and add diced tomatoes.
- Stir in heavy cream and let the flavors meld.
- Toss in the cooked pasta, and you’re nearly ready to serve!
Now you have an idea of what to expect, let’s dive into the ingredients needed.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gather these essentials for your Creamy Tomato Garlic Pasta:
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- 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
Feel free to substitute gluten-free pasta or plant-based cream for a healthier or dietary-friendly alternative!
Step-by-Step Directions
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Boil the Pasta: In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil and cook the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
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Sauté Garlic: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté until it turns golden brown.
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Add Tomatoes: Toss in the diced tomatoes along with salt and pepper. Let this mixture simmer for about 5 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
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Incorporate Cream: Lower the heat, then stir in the heavy cream. Mix it well until it’s smooth and all ingredients are fully combined.
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Combine with Pasta: Toss the cooked pasta into the skillet, ensuring it’s evenly coated with the luscious sauce.
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Garnish and Serve: Serve the pasta topped with fresh basil and, if desired, a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese.
Best Way to Serve
For an impressive presentation, serve your Creamy Tomato Garlic Pasta in bowls garnished with fresh basil. A sprinkle of Parmesan adds a lovely touch of flavor. Pair it with a crisp salad or garlic bread for a complete meal that’s sure to impress.
Storage Tips
To keep your Creamy Tomato Garlic Pasta fresh, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of cream or water to revive the sauce’s consistency. While this dish is best enjoyed fresh, it can be frozen if stored properly for up to a month.
Pro Chef Tips
Here are some insider tips to enhance your cooking experience:
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Whenever possible, use fresh garlic and ripe tomatoes for the best flavor.
- Don’t Overcook the Pasta: Aim for al dente; the pasta will continue to cook when mixed with the sauce.
- Add a Splash of Wine: A little white wine while sautéing the garlic can add depth to the flavors.
- Mix Up Herbs: While basil is a classic pairing, try adding a pinch of oregano or thyme for a different flavor profile.
Creative Twists
Looking to switch things up? Consider these variations:
- Creamy Spinach and Ricotta: Add fresh spinach and a dollop of ricotta for a creamy green twist.
- Sun-Dried Tomato: Swap fresh tomatoes with sun-dried tomatoes for a deeper, more intense flavor.
- Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to spice things up a bit.
Your Questions Answered
What is the prep time for Creamy Tomato Garlic Pasta?
The prep time is about 10-15 minutes, and the cooking time is approximately 15 minutes, making it a quick meal overall.
Can I use canned tomatoes instead of fresh?
Absolutely! Canned tomatoes can be a great substitute, especially when fresh tomatoes aren’t in season.
How do I reheat the pasta without drying it out?
Reheat gently on the stovetop, adding a splash of cream or water to keep it creamy and avoid drying it out.
With this delightful recipe, you’ll find that creamy, comforting pasta isn’t just for special occasions— it’s easy enough to enjoy every week! Happy cooking!
Print
Creamy Tomato Garlic Pasta
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A quick and comforting creamy pasta dish enriched with ripe tomatoes and aromatic garlic, perfect for busy weeknights.
Ingredients
Scale
- 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
- In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil and cook the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté until it turns golden brown.
- Toss in the diced tomatoes along with salt and pepper. Let this mixture simmer for about 5 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
- Lower the heat, then stir in the heavy cream. Mix it well until it’s smooth and all ingredients are fully combined.
- Toss the cooked pasta into the skillet, ensuring it’s evenly coated with the luscious sauce.
- Serve the pasta topped with fresh basil and a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Notes
Fresh ingredients yield the best flavor. Don’t overcook the pasta as it will continue to cook when mixed with the sauce.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 400mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 15g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
Keywords: creamy pasta, tomato garlic pasta, quick dinner, family meal, easy recipe
