Easy & Creamy Fresh Tomato Garlic Pasta

Indulge in a delightful fusion of fresh tomatoes and aromatic garlic, enveloped in a luscious, creamy sauce that clings perfectly to your choice of pasta. This recipe is a testament to simplicity and flavor, making it an ideal choice for both weeknight dinners and special occasions.

Why This Recipe Is Appealing

This dish harmoniously blends the natural sweetness of ripe tomatoes with the robust flavor of garlic, all balanced by a rich, creamy sauce. The use of fresh ingredients ensures a vibrant taste, while the straightforward preparation makes it accessible to cooks of all levels. Its versatility allows for various adaptations, catering to diverse palates and dietary preferences.

Ingredients

• 8 ounces (225 grams) pasta (such as spaghetti, fettuccine, or penne)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1 tablespoon tomato paste
• 1 teaspoon chili flakes (optional, for added heat)
• 1 cup heavy cream
• ½ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• Fresh basil leaves, chopped, for garnish

Step-by-Step Directions

1. Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta cooking water before draining.​
2. Sauté Garlic and Tomatoes: In a large skillet over medium heat, warm the olive oil. Add the minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute. Add the halved cherry tomatoes and cook, stirring occasionally, until they soften and release their juices, approximately 5-7 minutes.​
3. Incorporate Tomato Paste and Seasonings: Stir in the tomato paste and chili flakes, cooking for another 2 minutes to meld the flavors.​Allrecipes+1Salt and Lavender+1
4. Add Cream and Cheese: Pour in the heavy cream, stirring to combine. Let the mixture simmer gently for 3-4 minutes until slightly thickened. Add the grated Parmesan cheese, stirring until melted and the sauce is smooth. Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.​
5. Combine Pasta and Sauce: Add the cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing to coat evenly. If the sauce is too thick, gradually add some of the reserved pasta water to achieve the desired consistency.​
6. Garnish and Serve: Remove from heat and garnish with chopped fresh basil. Serve immediately, accompanied by additional Parmesan cheese if desired.​

Possible Variations

• Protein Addition: Incorporate grilled chicken, sautéed shrimp, or crispy bacon for added protein.​
• Vegetable Enhancements: Introduce vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, or zucchini for extra nutrients and flavor.​
• Herbal Twist: Substitute basil with other fresh herbs such as parsley or oregano to alter the flavor profile.​Epicurious+5Rachel Cooks+5Southern Living+5

Servings and Timing

• Servings: This recipe yields 4 servings.​Rachel Cooks+2Allrecipes+2Allrecipes+2
• Preparation Time: Approximately 10 minutes.​Salt and Lavender+1The Burnt Butter Table+1
• Cooking Time: Around 20 minutes.​Salt and Lavender+1Maja’s Recipes+1
• Total Time: Approximately 30 minutes.​

Storage and Reheating Instructions

• Storage: Place leftovers in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days.​
• Reheating: Gently reheat on the stovetop over medium-low heat, adding a splash of milk or cream to restore the sauce’s creaminess. Alternatively, microwave individual portions until warmed through.​Dishing Out Health+1Rachel Cooks+1

Frequently Asked Questions

How can I prevent the cream sauce from curdling?

To prevent curdling, ensure that the cream is at room temperature before adding it to the pan, and avoid boiling the sauce after adding the cream. Maintaining a gentle simmer will help keep the sauce smooth.​

Can I use milk instead of heavy cream?

Substituting milk for heavy cream will result in a thinner sauce and may lack the richness that cream provides. If opting for milk, consider adding a roux (a mixture of butter and flour) to help thicken the sauce.​Rachel Cooks

What type of pasta works best with this sauce?

Long pasta like spaghetti or fettuccine works well, but short pasta such as penne or rigatoni, which can hold the sauce in their ridges, are also excellent choices.​

Is it necessary to use fresh tomatoes?

While fresh cherry tomatoes offer a vibrant flavor, canned diced tomatoes can be used as a substitute, especially when fresh tomatoes are out of season.​

How can I make this dish vegetarian?

This recipe is already vegetarian. To make it vegan, substitute the heavy cream with a plant-based alternative and use nutritional yeast in place of Parmesan cheese.​

Can I prepare the sauce in advance?

Yes, the sauce can be prepared up to 2 days in advance. Store it in the refrigerator and reheat gently before tossing with freshly cooked pasta.​

What can I use instead of Parmesan cheese?

Pecorino Romano or Grana Padano are good alternatives to Parmesan. For a non-dairy option, consider using nutritional yeast.​

How do I adjust the spiciness of the dish?

To increase spiciness, add more chili flakes or a dash of hot sauce. To reduce heat, omit the chili flakes entirely.​

Can I freeze leftovers?

Cream-based sauces can sometimes separate upon freezing and reheating. If you choose to freeze leftovers, do so in an airtight container for up to one month and reheat gently, stirring to recombine the sauce.​

What side dishes pair well with this pasta?

A crisp green salad with a light vinaigrette or garlic bread complements this creamy pasta dish nicely.​

Conclusion

This Easy & Creamy Fresh Tomato Garlic Pasta is a celebration of simple ingredients coming together to create a comforting and flavorful meal. Its adaptability allows you to tailor it to your preferences, making it a versatile addition to your culinary repertoire. Enjoy the harmony of fresh tomatoes and garlic in a creamy embrace that is sure to satisfy and impress.

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