Creamy Tomato Pasta
Highlighted under: Ready-in-Minutes Recipes
Savor the rich and velvety goodness of this Creamy Tomato Pasta recipe, perfect for a cozy weeknight dinner or a special occasion. Made with fresh tomatoes, garlic, and a hint of basil, this dish delivers a delightful blend of flavors and textures. It's a quick and easy meal that's sure to become a family favorite, and it pairs beautifully with your favorite garlic bread or a crisp salad.
This delightful recipe was inspired by my love for comforting pasta dishes. Each bite of creamy tomato goodness brings me back to cozy family dinners.
A Perfect Blend of Flavors
Creamy Tomato Pasta is a delightful dish that brings together the sweetness of fresh tomatoes, the aromatic presence of garlic, and the richness of heavy cream. This combination creates a delectable sauce that clings beautifully to your pasta, ensuring every bite is full of flavor. Whether you are a novice in the kitchen or an experienced cook, this recipe is designed to provide satisfying results with minimal effort.
The balance of acidity from the tomatoes and the creaminess of the sauce gives this dish its signature taste. Incorporating fresh basil adds a hint of herbal freshness, elevating the overall dining experience. It’s a testament to how simple ingredients can yield extraordinary meals that everyone will love.
Quick and Easy Weeknight Dinner
In today’s fast-paced life, finding time to prepare a nutritious and delicious dinner can be challenging. Thankfully, this Creamy Tomato Pasta recipe is not only quick to make but also incredibly satisfying. With just a few basic ingredients and about 30 minutes, you can whip up a meal that feels indulgent yet doesn’t break the bank.
This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights when you crave something comforting after a long day. The best part? It’s adaptable! You can easily add ingredients like chicken, shrimp, or seasonal vegetables for added protein and nutrition.
Perfect Pairings
Creamy Tomato Pasta pairs wonderfully with a variety of side dishes that enhance its flavors. A crusty garlic bread is always a winning choice, allowing you to soak up the creamy sauce. Additionally, a light and refreshing salad can provide a crisp contrast to the creamy texture of the pasta, balancing out your meal beautifully.
For drinks, consider a glass of white wine, such as a Sauvignon Blanc, which complements the dish’s richness without overwhelming the flavors. For a non-alcoholic option, a sparkling water with a splash of lemon can refresh your palate between bites.
Ingredients
Ingredients for Creamy Tomato Pasta
- 400g pasta of your choice
- 500g fresh tomatoes, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 onion, diced
- 200ml heavy cream
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil leaves for garnish
Enjoy your fresh ingredients!
Cooking Steps
Cook the Pasta
In a large pot of boiling salted water, cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Prepare the Sauce
In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and minced garlic, cooking until fragrant and translucent.
Add Tomatoes
Stir in the chopped fresh tomatoes, cooking until they begin to break down and soften.
Add Cream
Pour in the heavy cream and stir to combine. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Combine Pasta and Sauce
Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss to coat well in the creamy tomato sauce.
Garnish and Serve
Serve hot, garnished with fresh basil leaves.
Enjoy your creamy tomato pasta!
Recipe Tips
To enhance the flavor of your Creamy Tomato Pasta, consider using San Marzano tomatoes, known for their sweetness and low acidity. If fresh tomatoes aren't in season, high-quality canned tomatoes can be a worthy substitute. Additionally, feel free to adjust the amount of garlic based on your personal preference for a more pronounced flavor.
For those who enjoy a bit of heat, a pinch of red pepper flakes can add a delightful kick to your sauce. Experimenting with different herbs like thyme or oregano can also provide a unique twist to the traditional basil garnish.
Storing and Reheating
If you have leftovers, storing Creamy Tomato Pasta is simple. Allow the dish to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be refrigerated for up to 3 days. When you're ready to enjoy it again, reheat on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of water or cream to maintain the sauce's creamy consistency.
While reheating, be sure to stir the pasta frequently to prevent sticking. For added freshness, consider garnishing with freshly chopped basil just before serving to bring back that vibrant flavor.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use canned tomatoes instead of fresh?
Yes, canned tomatoes can also work well, just make sure to choose high-quality ones for the best flavor.
→ How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove.
Creamy Tomato Pasta
Savor the rich and velvety goodness of this Creamy Tomato Pasta recipe, perfect for a cozy weeknight dinner or a special occasion. Made with fresh tomatoes, garlic, and a hint of basil, this dish delivers a delightful blend of flavors and textures. It's a quick and easy meal that's sure to become a family favorite, and it pairs beautifully with your favorite garlic bread or a crisp salad.
Created by: Emma
Recipe Type: Ready-in-Minutes Recipes
Skill Level: Easy
Final Quantity: 4 servings
What You'll Need
Ingredients for Creamy Tomato Pasta
- 400g pasta of your choice
- 500g fresh tomatoes, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 onion, diced
- 200ml heavy cream
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil leaves for garnish
How-To Steps
In a large pot of boiling salted water, cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and minced garlic, cooking until fragrant and translucent.
Stir in the chopped fresh tomatoes, cooking until they begin to break down and soften.
Pour in the heavy cream and stir to combine. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss to coat well in the creamy tomato sauce.
Serve hot, garnished with fresh basil leaves.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 450
- Protein: 12g
- Fat: 25g
- Carbohydrates: 45g