Why Make This Recipe

Creamy Tomato Garlic Pasta is a delightful dish that combines fresh tomatoes, garlic, and creamy goodness. It’s simple to make and packed with flavor, making it a perfect choice for a quick weeknight dinner or a cozy weekend meal. This recipe is not only delicious but also uses ingredients that are easy to find, making it accessible for everyone.

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 this hearty pasta dish warm. You can garnish it with fresh basil leaves and, if desired, a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese. Pair it with a side salad or garlic bread for a full meal experience.

How to Store Creamy Tomato Garlic Pasta

If you have leftovers, store the pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for about 3 days. Reheat it on the stove or in the microwave before serving again. Note that the pasta may absorb some sauce, so you might want to add a splash of cream or broth when reheating.

Tips to Make Creamy Tomato Garlic Pasta

Use ripe tomatoes for the best flavor. You can also use canned diced tomatoes if fresh ones are not available.
Don’t rush the garlic; cook it slowly to enhance its flavor without burning it.
For extra richness, consider adding a little grated cheese into the sauce when mixing it with the pasta.

Variation

You can customize this recipe by adding vegetables like spinach or mushrooms. For protein, grilled chicken or shrimp can be a great addition.

FAQs

1. Can I use other types of pasta?
Yes, you can use any pasta shape you like, such as penne, rigatoni, or even gluten-free pasta.

2. Is there a vegan version of this dish?
Absolutely! You can substitute heavy cream with coconut cream or a cashew cream and use vegan pasta.

3. How spicy is this dish?
This recipe is not spicy as written. However, you can add red pepper flakes during the cooking process for a kick of heat.