Why Make This Recipe
Creamy Tomato Garlic Pasta is a comforting and tasty dish that is easy to prepare. With fresh ingredients like ripe tomatoes and fragrant garlic, this pasta offers a delightful blend of flavors. It’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion. The creamy sauce wraps around the pasta, making every bite rich and satisfying.
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
This dish is best enjoyed warm. Serve it in bowls or on plates, topped with fresh basil. You can also add a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese for extra flavor. Pair it with a simple green salad or garlic bread for a complete meal.
How to Store Creamy Tomato Garlic Pasta
If you have leftovers, you can store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The pasta will keep well for 2-3 days. When reheating, add a splash of water or cream to loosen the sauce, as it may thicken after being stored.
Tips to Make Creamy Tomato Garlic Pasta
- Use fresh, ripe tomatoes for the best flavor in the sauce.
- If you like a little spice, consider adding red pepper flakes when sautéing the garlic.
- For a lighter version, you can substitute half-and-half for the heavy cream.
Variation
You can add cooked chicken, shrimp, or vegetables like spinach or zucchini to make this dish heartier. Experiment with different herbs, such as oregano or thyme, for varied flavors.
FAQs
1. Can I use other types of pasta?
Yes, you can use any type of pasta you prefer, such as penne or linguine.
2. Is there a vegetarian version of this recipe?
Yes, this recipe is already vegetarian since it uses pasta, tomatoes, garlic, and cream.
3. Can I make this dish dairy-free?
To make it dairy-free, use coconut cream or a dairy-free cream substitute along with dairy-free pasta.
Creamy Tomato Garlic Pasta
Ingredients
Pasta and Sauce Ingredients
- 8 oz spaghetti or fettuccine
- 1 cup ripe tomatoes (diced) Use fresh, ripe tomatoes for the best flavor.
- 1 cup heavy cream For a lighter version, substitute half-and-half.
- 4 cloves fresh garlic (minced)
- 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
- 1/4 cup fresh basil (chopped) Can add 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.
- Toss cooked pasta in the sauce until evenly coated.
Serving
- Serve topped with fresh basil and optional grated Parmesan cheese.
