Name: Creamy Tomato Pasta with Garlic & Herbs
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 35 min
Ingredients: 12 oz (340 g) pasta of your choice (penne, fusilli, or spaghetti); 2 tablespoons olive oil; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 1 small onion, finely chopped; 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes; 1 teaspoon dried oregano; 1 teaspoon dried basil; ½ teaspoon dried thyme; ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional); 1 cup heavy cream or full-fat coconut milk for dairy-free option; ½ cup grated Parmesan or vegan Parmesan alternative; Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste; ¼ cup fresh basil, chopped (for garnish); 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (optional)

Description

This creamy tomato pasta is a comforting, flavorful dish perfect for cozy evenings or casual dinners. Bursting with garlic, aromatic herbs, and a rich, velvety tomato cream sauce, it’s a versatile recipe that can be enjoyed on its own or paired with vegetables or protein. Inspired by classic Italian flavors, this pasta is easy to make, satisfying, and sure to become a family favorite.

Ingredients

Scale

12 oz (340 g) pasta of your choice (penne, fusilli, or spaghetti)
2 tablespoons olive oil
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 small onion, finely chopped
1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1 teaspoon dried basil
½ teaspoon dried thyme
½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
1 cup heavy cream or full-fat coconut milk for dairy-free option
½ cup grated Parmesan or vegan Parmesan alternative
Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
¼ cup fresh basil, chopped (for garnish)
2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (optional)

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Instructions

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain, reserving ½ cup of the pasta cooking water.
In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add garlic and onion, cooking until onions are translucent and garlic is fragrant, about 3–4 minutes.
Pour in crushed tomatoes and stir in oregano, basil, thyme, and red pepper flakes. Reduce heat and simmer for 10–12 minutes.
Stir in heavy cream (or coconut milk) and simmer for an additional 5 minutes. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Add cooked pasta to the sauce, tossing to coat. If sauce is too thick, add reserved pasta water gradually to reach desired consistency.
Mix in grated Parmesan until smooth and creamy.
Remove from heat and garnish with fresh basil and parsley. Serve immediately with extra Parmesan if desired.

Notes

For added depth, roast garlic before adding it to the sauce.
Add vegetables like spinach, zucchini, or mushrooms for extra flavor and nutrition.
Substitute half the cream with vegetable broth for a lighter version.
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days; reheat gently with a splash of water or milk.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes