Creamy Tomato Garlic Pasta
A delightful blend of tomatoes, garlic, and cream, this pasta dish is perfect for weeknight dinners or romantic meals.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 8 oz Pasta (penne, fettuccine, or spaghetti) Cook according to package instructions until al dente.
- 14 oz Crushed tomatoes (or tomato sauce)
- 1 cup Heavy cream Can substitute with half-and-half or coconut milk.
- ½ cup Grated Parmesan cheese
Aromatics & Vegetables
- 2 tbsp Olive oil For sautéing.
- 1 medium Onion, thinly sliced Can use shallots as a substitute.
- 4 cloves Garlic, minced Cook until fragrant, about 30 seconds.
Seasoning
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- ½ tsp Red pepper flakes Adjust based on desired spice level.
- ½ tsp Salt
- ¼ tsp Black pepper
Optional Finishing Ingredients
- ¼ cup Fresh basil or parsley, chopped Garnish just before serving.
Instructions
Preparation
- In a large pan, heat olive oil over medium heat.
- Add the sliced onion and sauté for about 3-4 minutes until translucent.
- Stir in minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.
Cooking the Sauce
- Pour in crushed tomatoes, Italian seasoning, red pepper flakes, salt, and black pepper.
- Cook for 5-7 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken slightly.
- Reduce heat to low, stir in heavy cream and grated Parmesan cheese, and cook for an additional 3-4 minutes.
Pasta Preparation
- While the sauce simmers, cook the pasta according to package instructions.
- Drain pasta and reserve a little pasta water.
Combining
- Add cooked pasta to the creamy sauce and toss gently to coat.
- If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of reserved pasta water.
Serving
- Garnish with chopped fresh basil or parsley just before serving.
- Serve in large bowls or individual plates.
Notes
For extra flavor, consider a splash of balsamic vinegar. Customize with sautéed vegetables or serve with extra cheese and fresh herbs on the side.