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Creamy Tomato Garlic Pasta
Creamy Tomato Garlic Pasta is a delightful escape into the world of comfort food. This dish, brimming with rich flavors and creamy goodness, quickly becomes a weeknight favorite, especially when you’re in need of a deliciously satisfying meal. After a long day, nothing beats twirling spaghetti or fettuccine around your fork, coating every bite in a luscious sauce made from ripe tomatoes, heavy cream, and garlic. With only a handful of ingredients, this recipe is not just simple but wonderfully indulgent, making it a perfect addition to your culinary repertoire.
What Makes This Recipe Special
What sets Creamy Tomato Garlic Pasta apart is its perfect blend of simplicity and sophistication. This dish is particularly beloved for its quick preparation time—perfect for those busy weeknights—and its ability to please even the pickiest of eaters. Not only is it budget-friendly, but its ingredients are also typically pantry staples, making it an easy choice when you’re not sure what to cook.
"This Creamy Tomato Garlic Pasta is an absolute game-changer for busy weeknights! It takes mere minutes and tastes like you spent hours in the kitchen." – Happy Home Cook
Step-by-Step Guide to Cooking It
Preparing Creamy Tomato Garlic Pasta is straightforward and enjoyable. Gather your ingredients, and you’re set for a culinary adventure. Expect a vibrant, aromatic dish in about 30 minutes, thanks to the quick cooking process that brings out the freshness of the tomatoes and the richness of the cream.
What You’ll Need
- 8 oz spaghetti or fettuccine (Feel free to swap with any pasta of your choice.)
- 1 cup ripe tomatoes (diced) (Tomatoes on the vine work beautifully.)
- 1 cup heavy cream (For a lighter version, you can use half-and-half.)
- 4 cloves fresh garlic (minced) (Depending on your taste, you can adjust the garlic.)
- 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil (A good quality oil will enhance the flavor.)
- 1/4 cup fresh basil (chopped) (Basil can also be swapped with parsley for a different flavor.)
- Salt and pepper to taste (Don’t be shy with seasoning!)
Step-by-Step Directions
- Boil salted water in a large pot. Cook the pasta according to 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.
- Add the diced tomatoes, salt, and pepper. Allow the mixture to simmer for about 5 minutes until the tomatoes start to soften.
- Lower the heat, then stir in the heavy cream until you achieve a well-blended sauce.
- Toss the cooked pasta in the sauce, ensuring it’s evenly coated.
- Serve topped with fresh basil and optionally, some grated Parmesan cheese.
Tips for Serving
Elevate your Creamy Tomato Garlic Pasta by serving it in a large, family-style bowl. A sprinkling of freshly chopped basil not only enhances the flavor but adds a pop of color that makes the dish visually appealing. Consider pairing it with a simple side salad drizzled with balsamic vinaigrette, crusty garlic bread, or roasted vegetables for a more complete meal. For an added touch, a glass of crisp white wine complements the flavors beautifully!
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Best Way to Store Creamy Tomato Garlic Pasta
To store the leftovers, allow the pasta to cool down completely. Transfer it to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. If you want to keep it longer, consider freezing it; however, the texture of the cream may change upon reheating. When ready to serve, reheat gently on low heat, adding a splash of cream or water to help loosen the sauce if it thickens.
Pro Chef Tips
- Use fresh tomatoes for the best flavor; canned tomatoes can work in a pinch but won’t provide the same fresh taste.
- Don’t overcook the garlic. Burnt garlic can turn bitter and ruin the dish. Watch it closely while sautéing.
- Finish with a squeeze of lemon for an unexpected brightness that complements the richness of the dish.
Creative Twists
You can customize this dish to suit your palate by adding extra ingredients. Consider mixing in sautéed spinach or kale for added nutrition, or tossing in cooked shrimp or grilled chicken for protein. A sprinkle of red pepper flakes adds a delightful kick, while a handful of olives introduces a Mediterranean flair.
Your questions answered
What is the prep time for this recipe?
Preparation takes about 10 minutes, while cooking takes around 20 minutes, making the total time approximately 30 minutes.
Can I substitute heavy cream?
Yes! Half-and-half can be used for a lighter version, or for a dairy-free alternative, consider unsweetened coconut cream or a cashew cream.
How long can I store leftovers?
Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For optimal quality, consume them as soon as possible.
Indulging in a bowl of Creamy Tomato Garlic Pasta not only satisfies cravings but also promotes a sense of warmth and comfort—perfect for any occasion. Enjoy your cooking!
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Creamy Tomato Garlic Pasta
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A delightful escape into the world of comfort food, this dish combines rich flavors of ripe tomatoes, heavy cream, and garlic for a satisfying weeknight meal.
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
- Boil salted water in a large pot. Cook the pasta according to 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.
- Add the diced tomatoes, salt, and pepper. Allow the mixture to simmer for about 5 minutes until the tomatoes start to soften.
- Lower the heat, then stir in the heavy cream until you achieve a well-blended sauce.
- Toss the cooked pasta in the sauce, ensuring it’s evenly coated.
- Serve topped with fresh basil and optionally, some grated Parmesan cheese.
Notes
For a lighter version, you can use half-and-half. Add extra ingredients like sautéed spinach or grilled chicken for customization.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 400
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 500mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 50g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 12g
- Cholesterol: 60mg
Keywords: creamy pasta, tomato garlic pasta, quick dinner, weeknight meal, vegetarian pasta
