Creamy Tomato Garlic Pasta is a delightful dish that beautifully combines the fresh flavors of ripe tomatoes and aromatic garlic with the richness of cream. Its vibrant red sauce is not only mouthwatering but also looks stunning on any dining table. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party, celebrating a special occasion, or simply enjoying a cozy night in, this pasta will surely impress your guests with its enticing aroma and hearty taste.
When you take a bite, you’ll experience a wonderful balance of creaminess and savory goodness that dances on your palate. This article will guide you through easy preparation steps, essential ingredients, and serving tips that make this dish a delightful choice for any meal. Get ready to tantalize your taste buds and impress those around you with this creamy pasta sensation!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Fresh Ingredients: Utilizing ripe tomatoes and fresh basil enhances the flavor.
- Ease of Preparation: This dish is simple to make, perfect for busy evenings.
- Nutrition: Packed with tomatoes, it’s full of vitamins and antioxidants.
- Versatility: You can easily customize it by adding proteins or vegetables.
- Presentation: The vibrant colors make it a visual masterpiece on your plate.
This dish is a winner for all ages and occasions!
Preparation and Cooking Time
- Total time: 30 minutes
- Preparation time: 10 minutes
- Cooking time: 20 minutes
Note that times may vary.
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 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
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Cook the spaghetti or fettuccine 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 fragrant, about 1-2 minutes.
- Add the diced tomatoes to the skillet and cook for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they soften and release their juices.
- Pour in the heavy cream and stir well to combine. Let it simmer for another 5 minutes until slightly thickened.
- Toss the cooked pasta into the skillet, mixing it well with the sauce. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Remove from heat and stir in the chopped basil just before serving.
How to Serve
- Presentation: Serve in a large bowl or plate and garnish with extra basil.
- Accompaniments: Pair with garlic bread or a fresh salad for a complete meal.
- Portions: This recipe serves about 4, making it perfect for family dinners.
- Beverage Pairing: Enjoy with a glass of white wine or sparkling water for a refreshing touch.
This dish will surely become a favorite!
Additional Tips
- Flavor Enhancement: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for some heat.
- Customization: Toss in grilled chicken or sautéed vegetables for added nutrition.
- Serving Suggestions: Top with freshly grated Parmesan cheese for extra creaminess.
Recipe Variations
- Spicy Tomato Garlic Pasta: Add crushed red pepper for a kick, perfect for spice lovers.
- Vegetable-packed Version: Stir in spinach or zucchini for added texture and nutrients.
- Pesto Variation: Mix in a tablespoon of basil pesto for an extra burst of flavor.
Freezing and Storage
- Storage: Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Freezing: For best results, freeze the pasta in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.
Special Equipment
- Large pot for boiling pasta
- Skillet for sauce
- Cutting board and knife
- Mixing spoon
- Measuring cups
- Serving bowl
FAQ’s
Q1: Can I use frozen tomatoes instead of fresh?
A1: Yes, frozen tomatoes can work; just thaw them and drain excess water before cooking.
Q2: Is this dish suitable for a vegetarian diet?
A2: Absolutely! This recipe is vegetarian-friendly and packed with flavor.
Q3: Can I prep this dish in advance?
A3: You can prepare the sauce ahead of time and simply cook the pasta when you’re ready to serve.
Q4: How can I customize the flavor?
A4: Feel free to add herbs or spices that you enjoy, like oregano or thyme, to enhance the dish.
Q5: Can I use a different cooking method?
A5: Yes! You can bake the pasta with the creamy sauce in an oven-safe dish for a cheesy baked version.
Conclusion
Creamy Tomato Garlic Pasta is not only simple to prepare but also bursting with flavor and nutrition. Perfect for any occasion, this dish combines freshness and richness that will leave you and your guests satisfied. Get ready to indulge in this delicious meal and share the joy of cooking with those you love!
Creamy Tomato Garlic Pasta
Ingredients
Pasta Ingredients
- 8 oz spaghetti or fettuccine Use your preferred type of pasta.
Sauce Ingredients
- 1 cup ripe tomatoes (diced)
- 1 cup heavy cream For a rich and creamy sauce.
- 4 cloves fresh garlic (minced)
- 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil For sautéing.
- 1/4 cup fresh basil (chopped) Add at the end for freshness.
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
Preparation
- Cook the spaghetti or fettuccine according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Cooking
- In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1-2 minutes.
- Add the diced tomatoes to the skillet and cook for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they soften and release their juices.
- Pour in the heavy cream and stir well to combine. Let it simmer for another 5 minutes until slightly thickened.
- Toss the cooked pasta into the skillet, mixing it well with the sauce. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Remove from heat and stir in the chopped basil just before serving.
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