Indulge in the delightful flavors of Creamy Cherry Tomato Pasta with this easy-to-follow recipe. Bursting with fresh cherry tomatoes, garlic, and a velvety cream sauce, this dish is perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a cozy dinner at home or a gathering with friends.
Ingredients:
2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
3 cloves garlic, minced
1/2 cup heavy cream
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 teaspoon dried basil
Salt and pepper to taste
8 oz pasta (your choice)
Fresh basil for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
Cook the Pasta: Begin by cooking the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain well and set aside.
Sauté the Garlic and Tomatoes: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, being careful not to burn it. Add the halved cherry tomatoes to the skillet and cook until they begin to soften and release their juices.
Make the Creamy Sauce: Reduce the heat to low. Pour in the heavy cream and grated Parmesan cheese, stirring gently until the cheese is melted and the sauce begins to thicken. Add dried basil, salt, and pepper to taste. Continue to cook, stirring occasionally, until the sauce reaches a creamy consistency.
Combine Pasta and Sauce: Add the cooked and drained pasta directly into the skillet with the creamy tomato sauce. Toss everything together gently, ensuring that the pasta is evenly coated with the sauce.
Serve: Garnish the Creamy Cherry Tomato Pasta with fresh basil leaves for a burst of color and added flavor. Serve hot and enjoy the creamy goodness!
Serving Tips:
Garnish Creatively: Sprinkle freshly chopped basil or parsley on top of each serving to enhance the dish’s aroma and presentation.
Pair with Bread: Serve alongside crusty bread or garlic breadsticks to complement the creamy sauce and soak up any extra sauce on the plate.
Add a Side Salad: Accompany the pasta with a simple side salad dressed in balsamic vinaigrette or a light lemon dressing for a refreshing contrast.
Complete with Wine: Pair this dish with a light-bodied white wine such as Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc to balance the creaminess of the sauce with crisp acidity.
Serve Immediately: Creamy pasta dishes are best enjoyed immediately after cooking to preserve the texture and flavor of the sauce.
Storage Tips:
Refrigeration: Store any leftover Creamy Cherry Tomato Pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating: To reheat, gently warm the pasta in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of cream or milk to restore creaminess. Stir frequently to prevent sticking.
Freezing: While pasta dishes with cream sauce can be frozen, the texture may change slightly upon thawing. Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 1 month. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Freshen Up: Before serving leftovers, sprinkle a little freshly grated Parmesan cheese and a drizzle of olive oil to refresh the flavors.
Avoid Overcooking: When reheating, avoid overheating the pasta to maintain its al dente texture. Add a bit of reserved pasta cooking water or cream to loosen the sauce if needed.
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FAQs:
Can I use different types of pasta for this recipe?
Absolutely! You can use your favorite type of pasta such as penne, spaghetti, fettuccine, or even shells. Just adjust the cooking time according to the pasta type’s package instructions to ensure it’s cooked al dente.
How can I make this dish vegetarian-friendly?
This recipe is already vegetarian-friendly. However, if you’d like to add more protein, consider tossing in some sautéed mushrooms or adding a sprinkle of toasted pine nuts or walnuts for added texture and flavor.
Can I make this pasta dish ahead of time for a dinner party?
While it’s best enjoyed fresh, you can prepare the components ahead of time. Cook the pasta and prepare the creamy sauce separately. Before serving, reheat the sauce gently in a skillet, toss with freshly cooked pasta, and garnish. This ensures the pasta retains its creamy texture and flavors.
What can I serve with Creamy Cherry Tomato Pasta?
This dish pairs well with a variety of sides. Consider serving it with a simple green salad, garlic bread, or a side of roasted vegetables like asparagus or broccoli. For a complete meal, add a protein such as grilled chicken or shrimp on the side or mixed into the pasta.
Conclusion:
This Creamy Cherry Tomato Pasta recipe offers a perfect blend of simplicity and richness, making it a favorite among pasta enthusiasts. Whether you’re a novice cook or a seasoned chef, this dish promises to impress with its savory flavors and creamy texture. Try it today for a memorable dining experience that everyone will love!
📖 Recipe:
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Creamy Cherry Tomato Pasta
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Enjoy a creamy and flavorful dish with this Creamy Cherry Tomato Pasta recipe. It combines fresh cherry tomatoes, garlic, Parmesan cheese, and a rich cream sauce for a satisfying meal that’s easy to prepare.
Ingredients
2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
3 cloves garlic, minced
1/2 cup heavy cream
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 teaspoon dried basil
Salt and pepper to taste
8 oz pasta (your choice)
Fresh basil for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Cook the pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant.
- Add halved cherry tomatoes to the skillet and cook until softened.
- Reduce heat to low. Stir in heavy cream and Parmesan cheese until melted and creamy.
- Add dried basil, salt, and pepper. Cook until the sauce thickens slightly.
- Add cooked pasta to the skillet and toss to coat evenly with the sauce.
- Garnish with fresh basil if desired. Serve hot and enjoy!
Notes
For a lighter version, use half-and-half or milk instead of heavy cream.
Customize by adding grilled chicken or shrimp for protein.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4 servings
