Introduction
Welcome to a delightful experience in cooking that captures the essence of Italian comfort food! This Easy and Creamy Tomato Garlic Pasta is a dish that combines simplicity with mouthwatering flavors. Imagine twirling al dente pasta around your fork, enveloped in a rich, creamy tomato sauce infused with aromatic garlic and a hint of basil. Perfect for a cozy weeknight dinner or a simple gathering with friends, this recipe is bound to become a family favorite!
Ingredients
- 8 ounces of pasta (spaghetti or fettuccine works well)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (14 ounces) crushed tomatoes
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- ½ cup heavy cream
- Fresh basil leaves for garnish
- Grated Parmesan cheese for serving
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Yield: 4 servings
Directions and Instructions
- Start by cooking the pasta according to the package directions until it reaches al dente perfection. Once cooked, drain the pasta and set it aside.
- In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat until it shimmers gently.
- Add the minced garlic to the skillet and sauté for about 1 minute, allowing the garlic to release its fragrant aroma without turning brown.
- Stir in the crushed tomatoes along with the dried basil, oregano, and red pepper flakes (if you want a little kick!). Season with salt and pepper to your liking.
- Let the sauce simmer for about 10 minutes, giving the flavors time to meld into a harmonious blend.
- Reduce the heat and stir in the heavy cream, mixing until the sauce becomes luxuriously creamy.
- Toss the cooked pasta into the skillet, ensuring every strand is beautifully coated with the rich sauce.
- Serve immediately, garnished with fresh basil leaves and a generous sprinkling of grated Parmesan cheese to elevate the flavors!
Notes or Tips
For an extra pop of flavor, consider adding a splash of balsamic vinegar to the sauce just before serving. If you enjoy a touch of sweetness, a pinch of sugar can also balance the acidity of the tomatoes. Feel free to customize the herbs based on what you have on hand—fresh herbs would be wonderful if you’re feeling fancy!
Cooking Techniques
This recipe uses classic Italian techniques, emphasizing the importance of sautéing garlic to bring out its sweetness without burning it. Simmering the sauce allows the ingredients to truly marry, creating a depth of flavor that is simply irresistible. Tossing the pasta with the sauce in the skillet helps to incorporate every bite with that creamy concoction, making sure no pasta is left behind!
FAQ
Can I use a different type of pasta? Absolutely! Feel free to swap in your favorite pasta shape—just adjust the cooking time as needed.
How can I make this dish vegetarian or vegan? To keep it vegetarian, simply omit the cheese or use a vegetarian cheese alternative. For a vegan option, consider substituting the heavy cream with coconut milk or a plant-based cream.
Conclusion
There you have it—a simple, quick, and utterly delicious Easy and Creamy Tomato Garlic Pasta that will have everyone asking for seconds! Whether you’re entertaining guests or enjoying a quiet night in, this dish brings warmth and satisfaction to the table. So grab your favorite pasta and let the cooking adventure begin—your taste buds will thank you!