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Southern Dishes

Silky Tomato Garlic Pasta Quick and Tasty Meal

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- 300g spaghetti or fettuccine - 4 ripe tomatoes, diced - 4 cloves garlic, minced - 3 tablespoons olive oil - 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes - Salt and pepper to taste - 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar - Fresh basil leaves - Grated Parmesan cheese (optional) The main ingredients make this pasta vibrant and flavorful. I love ripe tomatoes for their sweet taste. Fresh garlic adds a fragrant kick. You can choose between spaghetti or fettuccine for the pasta. Both work well in this dish. The essential seasonings bring depth to your meal. Olive oil gives a rich base for the sauce. Red pepper flakes add just the right amount of heat. Balsamic vinegar enhances the flavor with a tangy twist. Don't forget to season with salt and pepper to balance the dish. Garnishes make your pasta look and taste amazing. Fresh basil leaves bring a burst of color and flavor. If you want extra creaminess, sprinkle some grated Parmesan cheese on top. This easy combination of ingredients creates a quick and tasty meal. {{ingredient_image_1}} 1. First, fill a large pot with water and add salt. 2. Bring the water to a boil. This helps flavor the pasta. 3. Add your spaghetti or fettuccine. 4. Cook according to the package instructions until al dente. This usually takes about 8 to 10 minutes. 5. Save one cup of pasta water, then drain the pasta. Set it aside. 1. In a large skillet, heat three tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. 2. Add the minced garlic and one teaspoon of red pepper flakes. 3. Sauté for about 1-2 minutes. The garlic should smell good and turn a light gold. 4. Next, add the four diced tomatoes to the skillet. 5. Stir everything together and let it cook for about 5-7 minutes. The tomatoes will soften and release their juices. 1. Add the drained pasta to the skillet with the sauce. 2. Toss the pasta gently to mix it with the tomato mixture. 3. If the pasta looks dry, pour in some reserved pasta water. 4. Continue to toss until you achieve a silky consistency. 5. Finally, drizzle one tablespoon of balsamic vinegar over the dish. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Toss again to coat everything well. To make a silky sauce, reserve pasta water. This water is starchy and helps bind the sauce. When you mix in your cooked pasta, add some of this water. It helps create a smooth blend. If your sauce seems too thick, add a little more water. If it’s too thin, let it cook longer to thicken up. You can boost the taste with extra seasonings. Try adding herbs like oregano or thyme. For a bit more heat, toss in more red pepper flakes. If you want a tangy kick, use vinegar. Instead of balsamic, try red wine vinegar for a different flavor. This gives your dish a fresh twist. Sauté garlic gently to avoid burning. Start with medium heat and add olive oil. Add minced garlic when the oil is hot. Cook for just 1-2 minutes until golden and fragrant. Don’t rush this step! Timing is key. Add your tomatoes right after the garlic. This keeps the garlic flavor fresh and bright. Pro Tips Use Fresh Tomatoes: Fresh, ripe tomatoes will enhance the flavor of your sauce far more than canned varieties. Look for tomatoes that feel heavy for their size and have a rich color. Adjust the Spice: If you prefer a milder dish, reduce the amount of red pepper flakes. You can always add more at the table if desired. Reserve Pasta Water: Always save some pasta water before draining. This starchy water is perfect for adjusting the consistency of your sauce and helps it adhere better to the pasta. Garnish for Flavor: Fresh basil not only adds a pop of color but also intensifies the dish's flavor. Don't skip this step for an aromatic finish! {{image_2}} You can add protein to make this dish heartier. Chicken works well. Just cook it first, then add it to the sauce. Shrimp also makes a great choice. Cook the shrimp until pink, then toss it in. If you prefer a vegetarian option, try chickpeas or lentils. Both add great texture and protein. Tofu is another good choice. Just sauté it until golden, then mix it in. Adding vegetables can boost flavor and nutrition. Spinach is an easy option. Toss it in at the end until it wilts. Bell peppers add color and crunch, too. Just sauté them with the garlic. Seasonal veggies are fantastic. In summer, use zucchini or eggplant. In winter, think about roasted carrots or Brussels sprouts. Fresh seasonal ingredients make the dish bright and tasty. If you need gluten-free options, there are many choices. Brown rice pasta works well and has a nice flavor. Quinoa pasta is another good option. It’s high in protein and gluten-free. You might also try whole grain pasta. This adds fiber and nutrients. For something different, look for vegetable-based pasta, like spinach or beet. These add color and a unique taste to your meal. To keep your Silky Tomato Garlic Pasta fresh, follow these steps: - Refrigeration: Place leftovers in the fridge right away. This keeps harmful bacteria away. - Containers: Use airtight containers to prevent moisture loss. Glass or plastic containers work well. When you're ready to enjoy your pasta again, here’s how to reheat it: - Methods: You can use a microwave or a skillet. Both work great for warming pasta. - Silkiness: To maintain that silky sauce, add a splash of reserved pasta water while reheating. This keeps it creamy and smooth. If you want to save your pasta for later, freezing is a good choice: - Freezing: Place the cooled pasta in airtight freezer bags. Remove as much air as possible. - Thawing and Reheating: Thaw overnight in the fridge. Reheat in a skillet with a little water or oil to keep it silky. You can use canned tomatoes if you lack fresh ones. Look for whole or diced canned tomatoes. They give a great flavor. Another option is tomato paste or sauce. Use about 2-3 tablespoons of paste for a rich taste. Mix it with some water to reach the right consistency. Yes, you can make this dish vegan easily. Omit the Parmesan cheese for a tasty option. For protein, consider adding chickpeas or lentils. They boost flavor and nutrition. You could also use vegan cheese to keep that creamy texture. This pasta lasts for about 3-5 days in the fridge. Store it in an airtight container to keep it fresh. Watch for signs of spoilage, like off smells or mold. If it smells funny or looks odd, throw it away. This blog post covered all you need to create a tasty Silky Tomato Garlic Pasta. We discussed key ingredients, cooking methods, and helpful tips. Remember to use reserved pasta water for the best sauce. You can add proteins and veggies to fit your taste. Store and reheat leftovers wisely to keep them fresh. Enjoy making this dish your own, and don’t hesitate to experiment with flavors and ingredients. Cooking is fun, so let your creativity shine in the kitchen!

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Looking for a quick dinner that’s packed with flavor? My Silky Tomato Garlic Pasta is just the meal you need! Featuring fresh tomatoes, savory garlic, and silky pasta, it’s a delight to make and eat. With just a few easy steps, you can have a tasty plate ready in no time. Join me as we dive into this delicious recipe that will impress your taste buds and save you time in the kitchen!

Why I Love This Recipe

  1. Fresh Ingredients: The use of ripe tomatoes and fresh basil gives this dish a vibrant flavor that is hard to resist.
  2. Quick & Easy: With a total cooking time of just 25 minutes, this recipe is perfect for a delicious weeknight dinner.
  3. Customizable: You can easily adjust the spice level or add in other vegetables, making it versatile for any palate.
  4. Silky Sauce: The combination of pasta water and balsamic vinegar creates a luscious, silky sauce that clings beautifully to the pasta.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

– 300g spaghetti or fettuccine

– 4 ripe tomatoes, diced

– 4 cloves garlic, minced

Essential Seasonings

– 3 tablespoons olive oil

– 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes

– Salt and pepper to taste

– 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar

Garnishes

– Fresh basil leaves

– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)

The main ingredients make this pasta vibrant and flavorful. I love ripe tomatoes for their sweet taste. Fresh garlic adds a fragrant kick. You can choose between spaghetti or fettuccine for the pasta. Both work well in this dish.

The essential seasonings bring depth to your meal. Olive oil gives a rich base for the sauce. Red pepper flakes add just the right amount of heat. Balsamic vinegar enhances the flavor with a tangy twist. Don’t forget to season with salt and pepper to balance the dish.

Garnishes make your pasta look and taste amazing. Fresh basil leaves bring a burst of color and flavor. If you want extra creaminess, sprinkle some grated Parmesan cheese on top. This easy combination of ingredients creates a quick and tasty meal.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Cooking the Pasta

1. First, fill a large pot with water and add salt.

2. Bring the water to a boil. This helps flavor the pasta.

3. Add your spaghetti or fettuccine.

4. Cook according to the package instructions until al dente. This usually takes about 8 to 10 minutes.

5. Save one cup of pasta water, then drain the pasta. Set it aside.

Making the Sauce

1. In a large skillet, heat three tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat.

2. Add the minced garlic and one teaspoon of red pepper flakes.

3. Sauté for about 1-2 minutes. The garlic should smell good and turn a light gold.

4. Next, add the four diced tomatoes to the skillet.

5. Stir everything together and let it cook for about 5-7 minutes. The tomatoes will soften and release their juices.

Combining the Pasta and Sauce

1. Add the drained pasta to the skillet with the sauce.

2. Toss the pasta gently to mix it with the tomato mixture.

3. If the pasta looks dry, pour in some reserved pasta water.

4. Continue to toss until you achieve a silky consistency.

5. Finally, drizzle one tablespoon of balsamic vinegar over the dish. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Toss again to coat everything well.

Tips & Tricks

Achieving a Silky Sauce

To make a silky sauce, reserve pasta water. This water is starchy and helps bind the sauce. When you mix in your cooked pasta, add some of this water. It helps create a smooth blend. If your sauce seems too thick, add a little more water. If it’s too thin, let it cook longer to thicken up.

Flavor Enhancements

You can boost the taste with extra seasonings. Try adding herbs like oregano or thyme. For a bit more heat, toss in more red pepper flakes. If you want a tangy kick, use vinegar. Instead of balsamic, try red wine vinegar for a different flavor. This gives your dish a fresh twist.

Cooking Techniques

Sauté garlic gently to avoid burning. Start with medium heat and add olive oil. Add minced garlic when the oil is hot. Cook for just 1-2 minutes until golden and fragrant. Don’t rush this step! Timing is key. Add your tomatoes right after the garlic. This keeps the garlic flavor fresh and bright.

Pro Tips

  1. Use Fresh Tomatoes: Fresh, ripe tomatoes will enhance the flavor of your sauce far more than canned varieties. Look for tomatoes that feel heavy for their size and have a rich color.
  2. Adjust the Spice: If you prefer a milder dish, reduce the amount of red pepper flakes. You can always add more at the table if desired.
  3. Reserve Pasta Water: Always save some pasta water before draining. This starchy water is perfect for adjusting the consistency of your sauce and helps it adhere better to the pasta.
  4. Garnish for Flavor: Fresh basil not only adds a pop of color but also intensifies the dish’s flavor. Don’t skip this step for an aromatic finish!

Variations

Protein Additions

You can add protein to make this dish heartier. Chicken works well. Just cook it first, then add it to the sauce. Shrimp also makes a great choice. Cook the shrimp until pink, then toss it in.

If you prefer a vegetarian option, try chickpeas or lentils. Both add great texture and protein. Tofu is another good choice. Just sauté it until golden, then mix it in.

Vegetable Additions

Adding vegetables can boost flavor and nutrition. Spinach is an easy option. Toss it in at the end until it wilts. Bell peppers add color and crunch, too. Just sauté them with the garlic.

Seasonal veggies are fantastic. In summer, use zucchini or eggplant. In winter, think about roasted carrots or Brussels sprouts. Fresh seasonal ingredients make the dish bright and tasty.

Pasta Alternatives

If you need gluten-free options, there are many choices. Brown rice pasta works well and has a nice flavor. Quinoa pasta is another good option. It’s high in protein and gluten-free.

You might also try whole grain pasta. This adds fiber and nutrients. For something different, look for vegetable-based pasta, like spinach or beet. These add color and a unique taste to your meal.

Storage Info

Storing Leftovers

To keep your Silky Tomato Garlic Pasta fresh, follow these steps:

– Refrigeration: Place leftovers in the fridge right away. This keeps harmful bacteria away.

– Containers: Use airtight containers to prevent moisture loss. Glass or plastic containers work well.

Reheating Tips

When you’re ready to enjoy your pasta again, here’s how to reheat it:

– Methods: You can use a microwave or a skillet. Both work great for warming pasta.

– Silkiness: To maintain that silky sauce, add a splash of reserved pasta water while reheating. This keeps it creamy and smooth.

Freezing Options

If you want to save your pasta for later, freezing is a good choice:

– Freezing: Place the cooled pasta in airtight freezer bags. Remove as much air as possible.

– Thawing and Reheating: Thaw overnight in the fridge. Reheat in a skillet with a little water or oil to keep it silky.

FAQs

What can I substitute for fresh tomatoes?

You can use canned tomatoes if you lack fresh ones. Look for whole or diced canned tomatoes. They give a great flavor.

Another option is tomato paste or sauce. Use about 2-3 tablespoons of paste for a rich taste. Mix it with some water to reach the right consistency.

Can I make this pasta dish vegan?

Yes, you can make this dish vegan easily. Omit the Parmesan cheese for a tasty option.

For protein, consider adding chickpeas or lentils. They boost flavor and nutrition. You could also use vegan cheese to keep that creamy texture.

How long does Silky Tomato Garlic Pasta last in the fridge?

This pasta lasts for about 3-5 days in the fridge. Store it in an airtight container to keep it fresh.

Watch for signs of spoilage, like off smells or mold. If it smells funny or looks odd, throw it away.

This blog post covered all you need to create a tasty Silky Tomato Garlic Pasta. We discussed key ingredients, cooking methods, and helpful tips. Remember to use reserved pasta water for the best sauce. You can add proteins and veggies to fit your taste. Store and reheat leftovers wisely to keep them fresh. Enjoy making this dish your own, and don’t hesitate to experiment with flavors and ingredients. Cooking is fun, so let your creativity shine in the kitche

- 300g spaghetti or fettuccine - 4 ripe tomatoes, diced - 4 cloves garlic, minced - 3 tablespoons olive oil - 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes - Salt and pepper to taste - 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar - Fresh basil leaves - Grated Parmesan cheese (optional) The main ingredients make this pasta vibrant and flavorful. I love ripe tomatoes for their sweet taste. Fresh garlic adds a fragrant kick. You can choose between spaghetti or fettuccine for the pasta. Both work well in this dish. The essential seasonings bring depth to your meal. Olive oil gives a rich base for the sauce. Red pepper flakes add just the right amount of heat. Balsamic vinegar enhances the flavor with a tangy twist. Don't forget to season with salt and pepper to balance the dish. Garnishes make your pasta look and taste amazing. Fresh basil leaves bring a burst of color and flavor. If you want extra creaminess, sprinkle some grated Parmesan cheese on top. This easy combination of ingredients creates a quick and tasty meal. {{ingredient_image_1}} 1. First, fill a large pot with water and add salt. 2. Bring the water to a boil. This helps flavor the pasta. 3. Add your spaghetti or fettuccine. 4. Cook according to the package instructions until al dente. This usually takes about 8 to 10 minutes. 5. Save one cup of pasta water, then drain the pasta. Set it aside. 1. In a large skillet, heat three tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. 2. Add the minced garlic and one teaspoon of red pepper flakes. 3. Sauté for about 1-2 minutes. The garlic should smell good and turn a light gold. 4. Next, add the four diced tomatoes to the skillet. 5. Stir everything together and let it cook for about 5-7 minutes. The tomatoes will soften and release their juices. 1. Add the drained pasta to the skillet with the sauce. 2. Toss the pasta gently to mix it with the tomato mixture. 3. If the pasta looks dry, pour in some reserved pasta water. 4. Continue to toss until you achieve a silky consistency. 5. Finally, drizzle one tablespoon of balsamic vinegar over the dish. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Toss again to coat everything well. To make a silky sauce, reserve pasta water. This water is starchy and helps bind the sauce. When you mix in your cooked pasta, add some of this water. It helps create a smooth blend. If your sauce seems too thick, add a little more water. If it’s too thin, let it cook longer to thicken up. You can boost the taste with extra seasonings. Try adding herbs like oregano or thyme. For a bit more heat, toss in more red pepper flakes. If you want a tangy kick, use vinegar. Instead of balsamic, try red wine vinegar for a different flavor. This gives your dish a fresh twist. Sauté garlic gently to avoid burning. Start with medium heat and add olive oil. Add minced garlic when the oil is hot. Cook for just 1-2 minutes until golden and fragrant. Don’t rush this step! Timing is key. Add your tomatoes right after the garlic. This keeps the garlic flavor fresh and bright. Pro Tips Use Fresh Tomatoes: Fresh, ripe tomatoes will enhance the flavor of your sauce far more than canned varieties. Look for tomatoes that feel heavy for their size and have a rich color. Adjust the Spice: If you prefer a milder dish, reduce the amount of red pepper flakes. You can always add more at the table if desired. Reserve Pasta Water: Always save some pasta water before draining. This starchy water is perfect for adjusting the consistency of your sauce and helps it adhere better to the pasta. Garnish for Flavor: Fresh basil not only adds a pop of color but also intensifies the dish's flavor. Don't skip this step for an aromatic finish! {{image_2}} You can add protein to make this dish heartier. Chicken works well. Just cook it first, then add it to the sauce. Shrimp also makes a great choice. Cook the shrimp until pink, then toss it in. If you prefer a vegetarian option, try chickpeas or lentils. Both add great texture and protein. Tofu is another good choice. Just sauté it until golden, then mix it in. Adding vegetables can boost flavor and nutrition. Spinach is an easy option. Toss it in at the end until it wilts. Bell peppers add color and crunch, too. Just sauté them with the garlic. Seasonal veggies are fantastic. In summer, use zucchini or eggplant. In winter, think about roasted carrots or Brussels sprouts. Fresh seasonal ingredients make the dish bright and tasty. If you need gluten-free options, there are many choices. Brown rice pasta works well and has a nice flavor. Quinoa pasta is another good option. It’s high in protein and gluten-free. You might also try whole grain pasta. This adds fiber and nutrients. For something different, look for vegetable-based pasta, like spinach or beet. These add color and a unique taste to your meal. To keep your Silky Tomato Garlic Pasta fresh, follow these steps: - Refrigeration: Place leftovers in the fridge right away. This keeps harmful bacteria away. - Containers: Use airtight containers to prevent moisture loss. Glass or plastic containers work well. When you're ready to enjoy your pasta again, here’s how to reheat it: - Methods: You can use a microwave or a skillet. Both work great for warming pasta. - Silkiness: To maintain that silky sauce, add a splash of reserved pasta water while reheating. This keeps it creamy and smooth. If you want to save your pasta for later, freezing is a good choice: - Freezing: Place the cooled pasta in airtight freezer bags. Remove as much air as possible. - Thawing and Reheating: Thaw overnight in the fridge. Reheat in a skillet with a little water or oil to keep it silky. You can use canned tomatoes if you lack fresh ones. Look for whole or diced canned tomatoes. They give a great flavor. Another option is tomato paste or sauce. Use about 2-3 tablespoons of paste for a rich taste. Mix it with some water to reach the right consistency. Yes, you can make this dish vegan easily. Omit the Parmesan cheese for a tasty option. For protein, consider adding chickpeas or lentils. They boost flavor and nutrition. You could also use vegan cheese to keep that creamy texture. This pasta lasts for about 3-5 days in the fridge. Store it in an airtight container to keep it fresh. Watch for signs of spoilage, like off smells or mold. If it smells funny or looks odd, throw it away. This blog post covered all you need to create a tasty Silky Tomato Garlic Pasta. We discussed key ingredients, cooking methods, and helpful tips. Remember to use reserved pasta water for the best sauce. You can add proteins and veggies to fit your taste. Store and reheat leftovers wisely to keep them fresh. Enjoy making this dish your own, and don’t hesitate to experiment with flavors and ingredients. Cooking is fun, so let your creativity shine in the kitchen!

Silky Tomato Garlic Pasta

A delicious and easy pasta dish featuring fresh tomatoes and garlic.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Course Main Course
Cuisine Italian
Servings 4
Calories 400 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • 300 g spaghetti or fettuccine
  • 4 pieces ripe tomatoes, diced
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 3 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes
  • to taste salt and pepper
  • 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
  • for garnish fresh basil leaves
  • optional grated Parmesan cheese

Instructions
 

  • In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add the spaghetti or fettuccine and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water, then drain the pasta and set aside.
  • In a large skillet over medium heat, add the olive oil. Once hot, add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes, sautéing for about 1-2 minutes until fragrant and lightly golden.
  • Add the diced tomatoes to the skillet, stirring to combine. Cook for about 5-7 minutes until the tomatoes start to soften and release their juices.
  • Add the drained pasta to the skillet, tossing it gently with the tomato mixture. If the pasta appears dry, gradually add some reserved pasta water until you reach the desired silky consistency.
  • Drizzle the balsamic vinegar over the pasta, and season with salt and pepper to taste. Toss everything together until well coated.
  • Plate the pasta in individual bowls or a large serving dish. Garnish with fresh basil leaves and, if desired, a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese for extra richness.

Notes

Add more red pepper flakes for extra heat.
Keyword easy, garlic, pasta, quick, tomato

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