Description
This Creamy Fresh Tomato Garlic Pasta is a quick and comforting dish that combines the freshness of ripe tomatoes with the richness of heavy cream and Parmesan cheese, all tossed with perfectly cooked spaghetti and aromatic garlic. Ideal for a flavorful weeknight dinner, it delivers a creamy, garlicky tomato sauce with fresh basil notes.
Ingredients
Scale
For the Pasta and Sauce
- 8 oz (225 g) spaghetti or pasta of your choice
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 lb (450 g) fresh tomatoes, chopped
- 1/2 cup (120 ml) heavy cream
- 1/4 cup (25 g) grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/4 cup (10 g) fresh basil leaves, chopped
- Additional grated Parmesan cheese for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Cook the pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Reserve about 1 cup of pasta water, then drain the pasta and set aside.
- Prepare the sauce: In a large skillet over medium heat, add the olive oil. Once heated, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.
- Add tomatoes: Add the chopped fresh tomatoes to the skillet with the garlic. Cook for 5-7 minutes until the tomatoes start to break down and form a sauce, stirring occasionally.
- Make it creamy: Reduce the heat to low and slowly stir in the heavy cream. Allow the mixture to simmer for another 2 minutes to blend flavors.
- Incorporate cheese: Add the grated Parmesan cheese, stirring until it melts and the sauce becomes smooth and creamy. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Combine pasta and sauce: Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss to coat, adding a bit of reserved pasta water if the sauce is too thick. Stir in the chopped fresh basil leaves to finish.
- Serve: Divide the creamy fresh tomato garlic pasta among serving plates. Garnish with additional Parmesan cheese if desired, and serve immediately.
Notes
- Use fresh, ripe tomatoes for the best flavor and vibrant sauce color.
- Reserve pasta water to adjust sauce consistency and help it cling to the noodles.
- For a lighter option, substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or a cream alternative, but note the sauce may be less rich.
- Add crushed red pepper flakes with the garlic for a spicy kick.
- To make it vegetarian, ensure Parmesan cheese is free of animal rennet.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
