Creamy Tomato Garlic Pasta: The Perfect Weeknight Delight
Imagine a bowl of pasta coated in a rich, creamy sauce bursting with the freshness of ripe tomatoes and the warmth of garlic. Each bite is a little hug for your taste buds, making Creamy Tomato Garlic Pasta an ideal dish for those busy weeknights when you crave comfort but don’t want to spend hours in the kitchen. This recipe strikes a delightful balance between indulgence and nutrition, keeping your wallet and well-being in mind.
Cooking is all about heart and soul, and this dish embodies that sentiment beautifully. It takes just a few simple ingredients, most of which you probably already have on hand, creating a meal that wraps you in cozy nostalgia without the fuss.
Serving Versatility
One of the best things about Creamy Tomato Garlic Pasta is its versatility. Serve it over a fluffy bed of rice for a gluten-free option, swap in zoodles (zucchini noodles) for a low-carb twist, or tuck it into a warm wrap for a satisfying lunch. Whether your family prefers classic pasta, hearty grains, or lighter options, this dish can easily adapt to what you have on hand.
Full Recipe Section
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.
- Prep time: 10 minutes
- Cook time: 15 minutes
- Total time: 25 minutes
- Servings: 4
- Calories: Approximately 500 per serving
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick preparation: In just 25 minutes, you have a delicious meal ready to go.
- Budget-friendly ingredients: Simple pantry staples come together beautifully.
- Big, cozy flavor: It’s comfort food that feels good.
- Nutritional value: Fresh tomatoes and basil add health benefits to your dish.
- Customizability: Make it your own with protein, veggies, or different herbs.
Cultural or Cooking Technique Note
This dish draws inspiration from Italian cuisine, where fresh ingredients shine through simple techniques. By simmering garlic and tomatoes together, you create a fragrant base that turns ordinary pasta into something special.
Serving Suggestions
- Over Rice: Try it on a bed of fluffy rice for a gluten-free option that soaks up every bit of that creamy sauce.
- With Noodles: Swap in whole wheat or gluten-free pasta for a healthier twist.
- In a Wrap: Perfect for meal prep, load it into a tortilla for a satisfying lunch.
- Solo: Serve it as a side dish with grilled chicken or fish for a complete meal.
Pro Tips for Success
- Season with love: Adjust the seasoning to your taste; don’t be afraid to add more salt or pepper.
- Control the heat: Keep the garlic over medium heat to avoid burning. You want it golden, not brown.
- Chop evenly: Cut your tomatoes into similar sizes for even cooking, ensuring every bite is balanced.
Storage & Reheating
To store leftovers, place your pasta in an airtight container and keep it in the fridge for up to 3 days. For longer storage, it freezes well for up to 2 months. When reheating, do so on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of milk or cream to revive that creamy texture without losing any flavor.
Closing Paragraph
I encourage you to whip up this Creamy Tomato Garlic Pasta soon. It’s a simple, heartfelt dish that’s perfect for your busy life, and I’d love to hear how you make it your own! Share your thoughts, rate the recipe, or drop a comment below.
🎀 Final Thoughts
Cooking is all about bringing people together, and I hope this dish helps you create warm memories with those you love. From my kitchen in Asheville to yours, happy cooking, my friends!
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Creamy Tomato Garlic Pasta
Ingredients
Method
- 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.