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Creamy Tomato Garlic Pasta: A Deliciously Easy Recipe for Dinner

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Enjoy a creamy tomato garlic pasta that blends rich heavy cream with vibrant garlic and tomatoes. This quick and satisfying dish is perfect for weeknight dinners or cozy weekends, delivering a delightful flavor experience in just 30 minutes.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 8 ounces of pasta (spaghetti, fettuccine, or your choice)
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 can (14 ounces) crushed tomatoes
  • 1 teaspoon dried basil
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus more for serving
  • Fresh basil leaves for garnish (optional)

Instructions

  1. Fill a large pot with water and add a generous pinch of salt. Bring to a rolling boil over high heat.
  2. Add the pasta to the boiling water and cook according to package instructions until al dente, about 8-10 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
  3. Before draining, reserve about 1 cup of the pasta cooking water.
  4. Drain the pasta in a colander and set aside. Do not rinse.
  5. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.
  6. Pour in crushed tomatoes, stir in dried basil, oregano, and red pepper flakes (if using). Season with salt and pepper. Let simmer for 5-7 minutes.
  7. Reduce heat to low and slowly pour in heavy cream. Stir well and cook for another 3-5 minutes until heated through and slightly thickened.
  8. Stir in grated Parmesan cheese until melted. If the sauce is too thick, add reserved pasta water to reach desired consistency.
  9. Add drained pasta to the skillet and toss gently to coat with the sauce. Adjust consistency with more reserved pasta water if needed.
  10. Taste the pasta and adjust seasoning with more salt, pepper, or cheese if desired.
  11. Twirl pasta onto plates or into bowls, ensuring each serving has sauce.
  12. Top with additional grated Parmesan cheese and fresh basil leaves.
  13. Serve immediately while hot and creamy, paired with a side salad or crusty bread.

Notes

  • For added protein, consider including grilled chicken, shrimp, or sautéed mushrooms.
  • Incorporate vegetables like spinach, zucchini, or bell peppers for extra nutrition.
  • For a vegan version, substitute heavy cream with coconut cream or cashew cream and use nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan.
  • Adjust the heat level by adding more red pepper flakes or hot sauce.

Find it online: https://anasrecipes.com/creamy-tomato-garlic-pasta/