Creamy Tomato Garlic Pasta: Quick Comfort for Busy Nights

Busy nights call for quick and comforting meals. One such dish that hits the spot is Creamy Tomato Garlic Pasta. This delightful recipe combines the sweetness of ripe tomatoes, the richness of cream, and the bold flavor of garlic. Perfect for a weeknight dinner, this pasta is not only easy to make but also incredibly satisfying.

Why make this recipe

Why choose Creamy Tomato Garlic Pasta? This recipe is a superstar for several reasons. It requires simple ingredients that you likely already have at home. It comes together in just 30 minutes, making it an excellent choice for those hectic evenings. The creamy, tangy sauce paired with your favorite pasta shape is sure to please everyone at the dinner table. Plus, you can customize it with various herbs and add-ins to suit your taste!

How to prepare Creamy Tomato Garlic Pasta

Ingredients:

• 12 ounces Spaghetti or Fettuccine (Choose your favorite pasta shape)
• 4 medium Ripe Tomatoes (Fresh or canned diced tomatoes work)
• 1 cup Heavy Cream (Use Greek yogurt or coconut milk for a lighter variant)
• 4 cloves Fresh Garlic (Minced)
• 2 tablespoons Olive Oil (Extra virgin)
• 1 cup Basil (Fresh, or dried if fresh is unavailable)
• to taste Salt
• to taste Pepper
• 1/2 cup Parmesan Cheese (Grated)
• to taste Extra Basil Leaves (Fresh)

Steps:

Before we dive into the cooking instructions, don’t forget to add

tag for visual guidance!

Cooking Instructions

1. Cook the Pasta: Start by boiling a large pot of salted water. Add your spaghetti or fettuccine and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

2. Prepare the Sauce: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute, until fragrant.

3. Add Tomatoes: If using fresh tomatoes, chop them and add to the skillet. Cook for about 5–7 minutes until they soften. If you’re using canned tomatoes, just add them directly.

4. Make it Creamy: Stir in the heavy cream (or alternative) and let it simmer for a few minutes. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

5. Combine Pasta and Sauce: Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss everything together until the pasta is well coated in the sauce. Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese and chopped basil.

6. Final Touches: Adjust the seasoning if needed, and let it heat through for another minute or two.

How to serve Creamy Tomato Garlic Pasta

Serve your Creamy Tomato Garlic Pasta hot. You can garnish with additional parmesan and fresh basil leaves for a lovely finishing touch. Pair it with a simple side salad or garlic bread for a complete meal.

How to store Creamy Tomato Garlic Pasta

If you have leftovers, let the pasta cool completely. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of water or cream to bring back the sauce’s creaminess.

Tips to make Creamy Tomato Garlic Pasta perfectly

• Use fresh, ripe tomatoes for the best flavor, but canned tomatoes work well too.
• Don’t skip the garlic – it adds a delicious depth to the sauce.
• Taste and adjust the seasoning as you go to personalize the flavor.
• Reserve a bit of pasta water before draining; it can be added to the sauce to adjust the consistency if needed.

Variations

Feel free to customize your Creamy Tomato Garlic Pasta! You can add cooked chicken, shrimp, or even vegetables like spinach or zucchini for extra nutrition. For a spicier kick, consider adding red pepper flakes.

FAQ

1. Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes! You can use any pasta shape you prefer, such as penne or rigatoni.

2. What can I substitute for heavy cream?

You can use Greek yogurt, coconut milk, or a light cream for a healthier option.

3. How can I make this dish vegan?

To make it vegan, use coconut milk and skip the parmesan cheese or use a vegan cheese alternative.

Enjoy your comforting bowl of Creamy Tomato Garlic Pasta! It’s sure to become a family favorite.

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