Why Make This Recipe
Creamy Tomato Garlic Pasta is a delightful dish that celebrates the rich flavors of fresh tomatoes and garlic, all wrapped in a creamy sauce. It’s simple to make, yet feels like a special dinner that you would get at a restaurant. Plus, it’s great for both a quick weeknight meal and impressing guests.
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 your Creamy Tomato Garlic Pasta hot right from the stove. You can garnish it with a sprinkle of fresh basil and some grated Parmesan cheese on top for extra flavor. Pair it with a simple side salad or garlic bread to make a complete meal.
How to Store Creamy Tomato Garlic Pasta
If you have leftovers, let the pasta cool down completely before storing. Keep it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, add a bit of cream or olive oil when warming it on the stove to bring back its creamy texture.
Tips to Make Creamy Tomato Garlic Pasta
- Use ripe tomatoes for the best flavor. If tomatoes are not in season, canned tomatoes can also work well.
- Adjust the amount of garlic according to your taste. More garlic adds a stronger flavor.
- For a little kick, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes while cooking the garlic.
Variation
You can customize this recipe by adding cooked chicken, shrimp, or vegetables like spinach or bell peppers to make it even heartier.
FAQs
1. Can I use a different type of pasta?
Yes, any pasta type works well with this sauce. Use your favorite!
2. Is there a dairy-free option for the sauce?
Yes! You can replace heavy cream with coconut milk or a dairy-free cream alternative.
3. How do I make the sauce thicker?
If you want a thicker sauce, let it simmer longer to reduce the cream, or add a bit of grated cheese while stirring.
Creamy Tomato Garlic Pasta
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A delightful dish celebrating fresh tomatoes and garlic in a creamy sauce, perfect for a quick dinner or impressing guests.
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.
- 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.
Notes
Use ripe tomatoes for the best flavor, and feel free to customize with proteins or veggies.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian