Creamy Tomato Garlic Pasta
A delightful dish that combines the rich flavors of garlic with creamy tomatoes and fresh basil, ready in under 30 minutes.
Ingredients
Pasta Ingredients
- 8 oz Penne or fettuccine pasta Alternative: Any pasta shape you prefer
- 2 Tbsp Extra virgin olive oil For sautéing the garlic
- 4 cloves Fresh garlic (minced) Adds rich flavor; use roasted garlic for a milder taste
- 28 oz Canned diced tomatoes (with juice) Choose quality for best results
- 1 cup Heavy cream For a rich, creamy texture
- 1 cup Grated Parmesan cheese Can substitute with Pecorino Romano
- to taste Salt and black pepper Essential for flavor enhancement
- 1 handful Fresh basil (torn) Adds freshness and aroma
- 2 cups Fresh spinach Optional but recommended for color and nutrition
- 1 tsp Red pepper flakes (optional) Adds mild heat; adjust to preference
Instructions
Cooking the Pasta
- Boil a large pot of salted water. Add pasta and cook until al dente, about 8–10 minutes. Drain and set aside.
Sautéing Garlic
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for about 1–2 minutes until fragrant, being careful not to burn.
Making the Sauce
- Pour in canned diced tomatoes with their juice, stirring to combine. Simmer for about 5 minutes.
- Slowly add heavy cream while stirring continuously, allowing it to blend into the sauce. Let simmer on low for another 3–5 minutes.
- Season with salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using). Stir in fresh spinach until wilted, then add grated Parmesan cheese and mix well.
Tossing the Pasta
- Toss cooked pasta in the sauce until fully coated. Serve warm, garnished with fresh basil.
Notes
Use fresh garlic for the best flavor; avoid pre-minced garlic if possible. Simmer the sauce long enough to deepen the flavors, but don’t overcook spinach. Reserve some pasta water to adjust the sauce consistency if needed. Mix in your favorite veggies like bell peppers or mushrooms for added nutrition. Feel free to experiment with herbs such as thyme or oregano to complement the dish. For a protein boost, consider adding grilled chicken or shrimp. Avoid common mistakes like overcooking the pasta or not draining it properly.