Garlic Tomato Pasta is a dish that dances on your taste buds like a jubilant ballerina. Imagine the rich aroma of sautéed garlic mingling with juicy tomatoes, creating a symphony of flavors that sing, “Eat me!” This meal is a delightful concoction that screams comfort food while still being elegant enough to impress even the pickiest of dinner guests. easy taco pasta dish Parmesan pasta soup recipe. For more inspiration, check out this Italian ground chicken soup recipe.
Picture this: you walk into your kitchen after a long day, and the smell of garlic wafts through the air, wrapping around you like a warm hug. Garlic Tomato Pasta is perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a cozy night in or an impromptu dinner party. spicy chicken poppers Trust me; once you take that first bite, you’ll be dreaming about it long after the plate is empty.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This Garlic Tomato Pasta recipe boasts incredible flavor without requiring hours in the kitchen
- It’s visually stunning with vibrant colors from fresh ingredients
- Perfect for busy weeknights yet elegant enough for entertaining guests
- Plus, it’s easy to customize based on what you have at home!
The last time I made Garlic Tomato Pasta, my friend declared it “life-changing” as he devoured his second helping. It’s safe to say that this dish has earned its place in our regular rotation. For more inspiration, check out this Thanksgiving appetizers recipe.
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
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Pasta: Choose your favorite shape; spaghetti or penne works beautifully for holding onto that luscious sauce.
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Fresh Tomatoes: Use ripe, juicy tomatoes for optimal flavor; cherry tomatoes add a nice sweetness.
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Garlic: Fresh cloves are key here; they provide an aromatic punch that dried garlic just can’t match.
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Olive Oil: A good quality extra virgin olive oil enhances flavor and adds richness to the sauce.
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Basil: Fresh basil leaves elevate the dish with their aromatic fragrance and vibrant color.
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Parmesan Cheese: Grated Parmesan adds savory depth and creaminess; don’t skip this step!
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Salt and Pepper: Essential seasonings to bring all those flavors together; adjust according to taste.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it Together
Cook the Pasta: Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add your chosen pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. The pasta should be firm yet tender.
Sauté the Garlic: While the pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute—be careful not to burn it!
Add Tomatoes and Seasoning: Toss in chopped fresh tomatoes along with salt and pepper. Cook everything together for about 5-7 minutes until the tomatoes soften and release their juices into a delicious sauce.
Combine Pasta and Sauce: Drain the cooked pasta but reserve some cooking water. Add the pasta to the skillet with tomato sauce. Toss everything together, adding reserved water as needed for a silky texture.
Add Fresh Basil and Cheese: Stir in freshly torn basil leaves and grated Parmesan cheese right before serving. The heat will slightly wilt the basil while melting the cheese into creamy perfection.
Serve Immediately!: Plate your Garlic Tomato Pasta while it’s hot—garnish with extra basil and cheese if you’re feeling fancy!
This vibrant dish is not only quick but also packed with flavor that will leave everyone asking for seconds!
You Must Know
- Garlic tomato pasta is not just a dish; it’s a culinary hug for your taste buds
- The rich aroma of sautéing garlic and tomatoes fills your kitchen, making it feel like a cozy Italian bistro
- Simple yet sophisticated, this recipe is perfect for weeknight dinners or impressing guests
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by boiling salted water for pasta, then sauté garlic in olive oil while the pasta cooks to save time and maximize flavor.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap in different veggies or add protein like chicken or shrimp for an extra boost. chicken wild rice soup Herbs like basil also work wonders in this dish.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge and reheat gently on the stove with a splash of olive oil to keep it moist.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- For the best garlic tomato pasta, use fresh ingredients for vibrant flavors
- Always taste before serving to adjust seasonings
- Don’t forget to reserve some pasta water for a creamier sauce!
Cooking garlic tomato pasta always reminds me of family gatherings. I once made this dish for my cousin’s birthday, and everyone couldn’t stop raving about it!
FAQ
Can I use dried herbs instead of fresh?
Yes, but use about one-third of the amount since dried herbs are more concentrated.
How can I make this dish vegetarian?
Simply omit any meat and add extra vegetables or protein-rich beans for a hearty meal.
What type of pasta works best?
Spaghetti or penne are great choices, but feel free to use your favorite pasta shape!
Garlic Tomato Pasta
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Garlic Tomato Pasta is a vibrant and flavorful dish that combines sautéed garlic with juicy tomatoes, creating a comforting yet elegant meal perfect for any occasion. This quick recipe allows you to enjoy restaurant-quality flavors at home without hours in the kitchen. With fresh ingredients and simple preparation, this Garlic Tomato Pasta will have everyone coming back for seconds.
Ingredients
- 8 oz pasta (spaghetti or penne)
- 2 cups fresh tomatoes (chopped)
- 4 cloves garlic (minced)
- 3 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
- 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves (torn)
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the pasta by boiling salted water in a large pot. Cook according to package instructions until al dente.
- In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Sauté minced garlic for about 1 minute until fragrant, taking care not to burn it.
- Add chopped tomatoes, salt, and pepper. Cook for 5-7 minutes until tomatoes soften and create a sauce.
- Drain pasta, reserving some cooking water. Combine pasta with the tomato sauce in the skillet, adding reserved water as needed for desired consistency.
- Stir in fresh basil and grated Parmesan just before serving.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Sautéing
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 plate (300g)
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 320mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 60g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 14g
- Cholesterol: 10mg
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