TOMATO GARLIC PASTA QUICK EASY

Sometimes, all you need is a big bowl of comfort, and that comfort should taste like sun-ripened tomatoes, fragrant garlic, and perfectly cooked pasta. This Tomato Garlic Pasta recipe is your answer to a quick, satisfying, and utterly delicious meal. Get ready to twirl your fork into a bowl of pure pasta perfection – I promise you’ll be making this again and again!

The Heart of the Dish: Ingredients

Before we dive into the cooking process, let’s gather our ingredients. Remember, using high-quality ingredients will elevate the flavor of your Tomato Garlic Pasta to the next level. Don’t worry, I’ll also share some tips on substitutions if you’re missing something!

Pasta

• 1 pound pasta (spaghetti, linguine, penne, or your favorite shape)

Tomato Sauce

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 6 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 (28 ounce) can crushed tomatoes
• 1 (15 ounce) can tomato sauce
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a little heat)
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil, for garnish
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese, for garnish

Optional Add-ins

• 1/2 cup dry white wine (for deglazing the pan, adds depth of flavor)
• 1/2 cup chopped onion (sautéed with the garlic)
• Cooked chicken, shrimp, or sausage (for a protein boost)
• Fresh spinach or kale (stirred in during the last few minutes of cooking)

Step-by-Step Instructions to Pasta Perfection

Now, let’s get cooking! This recipe is incredibly easy, even for beginner cooks. Just follow these simple steps, and you’ll have a restaurant-worthy Tomato Garlic Pasta on the table in no time. I’m here to guide you through each step!

Getting Started

1. Cook the pasta according to package directions. Be sure to salt the pasta water generously – this is your only chance to season the pasta itself! Cook until al dente (slightly firm to the bite), then drain, reserving about 1 cup of the pasta water.
2. While the pasta is cooking, prepare the sauce.

Making the Tomato Garlic Sauce

1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet or pot over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook, stirring frequently, until fragrant, about 1-2 minutes. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as it will become bitter.
2. If using onion, add it to the skillet with the garlic and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
3. If using white wine, pour it into the skillet and scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan (this is called deglazing). Let the wine simmer for a minute or two until it reduces slightly.
4. Add the crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, oregano, and red pepper flakes (if using). Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
5. Bring the sauce to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low and cook for at least 15 minutes, or up to 30 minutes, stirring occasionally. The longer it simmers, the more the flavors will meld together.

Combining Pasta and Sauce

1. Add the cooked pasta to the skillet with the tomato garlic sauce. Toss to coat the pasta evenly.
2. If the sauce is too thick, add a little of the reserved pasta water until it reaches your desired consistency. The pasta water is starchy and will help the sauce cling to the pasta.
3. If adding any optional ingredients like cooked chicken, shrimp, sausage, spinach, or kale, stir them in now and cook until heated through.

Serving and Enjoying

1. Serve immediately, garnished with fresh basil and grated Parmesan cheese.
2. A side of crusty bread is perfect for soaking up the delicious sauce!

Tips and Tricks for the Best Tomato Garlic Pasta

Want to take your Tomato Garlic Pasta to the next level? Here are a few of my favorite tips and tricks:

• Don’t overcook the garlic: Burnt garlic can ruin the entire dish. Keep a close eye on it and cook it over medium heat until fragrant, but not brown.
• Use good-quality tomatoes: The flavor of the tomatoes is crucial to the success of this recipe. Look for canned crushed tomatoes that are labeled “San Marzano” for the best flavor.
• Salt the pasta water: This is your only chance to season the pasta itself, so don’t skimp on the salt!
• Reserve pasta water: The starchy pasta water is a secret weapon for creating a creamy, emulsified sauce.
• Taste and adjust the seasoning: Before serving, taste the sauce and adjust the salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes to your liking.
• Add a touch of sweetness: If the sauce is too acidic, you can add a pinch of sugar to balance the flavors.

Variations to Make It Your Own

The beauty of this Tomato Garlic Pasta recipe is that it’s so versatile. Feel free to experiment with different ingredients and flavors to create your own signature dish. Here are a few ideas to get you started:

• Spicy Tomato Garlic Pasta: Add extra red pepper flakes or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the sauce for a fiery kick.
• Creamy Tomato Garlic Pasta: Stir in a splash of heavy cream or half-and-half at the end for a richer, creamier sauce.
• Tomato Garlic Pasta with Vegetables: Add your favorite vegetables to the sauce, such as zucchini, bell peppers, mushrooms, or eggplant.
• Tomato Garlic Pasta with Seafood: Add cooked shrimp, scallops, or mussels to the sauce for a delicious seafood pasta dish. Consider making the Creamy Garlic Shrimp Pasta next time for something different.
• Vegan Tomato Garlic Pasta: Use vegan Parmesan cheese and vegetable broth instead of wine (if using).

Serving Suggestions and Pairings

This Tomato Garlic Pasta is delicious on its own, but it’s even better when paired with the right side dishes. Here are a few of my favorite serving suggestions:

• Garlic Bread: A classic pairing! Spaghetti Garlic Bread Bowls Ultimate would also be a fun twist!
• Side Salad: A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette is a refreshing counterpoint to the rich pasta.
• Roasted Vegetables: Roasted asparagus, broccoli, or Brussels sprouts are delicious and healthy accompaniments.
• Meatballs: Serve with homemade or store-bought meatballs for a heartier meal.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

If you have any leftover Tomato Garlic Pasta, you can store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, simply microwave until heated through, or warm it up in a skillet over medium heat. You may need to add a splash of water to the sauce to prevent it from drying out.

Why This Recipe Works

This Tomato Garlic Pasta recipe is a winner because it’s:

• Quick and Easy: Ready in under 30 minutes, perfect for busy weeknights.
• Flavorful: Simple ingredients combine to create a surprisingly delicious and satisfying meal.
• Versatile: Easily adaptable to your preferences and dietary needs.
• Budget-Friendly: Made with pantry staples, so it won’t break the bank.

If you’re looking for other easy pasta recipes, you might also enjoy Creamy Garlic Pasta or even Garlic Parmesan Pasta Heaven! You could even try making Garlic Bread Spaghetti Bowls for a fun family dinner. Or, for something with chicken, Romano Chicken Lemon Garlic Pasta is a great choice.

Final Thoughts: Your New Go-To Pasta Dish

There you have it – a simple, satisfying, and utterly delicious Tomato Garlic Pasta recipe that’s sure to become a weeknight staple. I hope you enjoy making and eating this dish as much as I do! Don’t be afraid to experiment with different variations and make it your own. Happy cooking!