Creamy Pasta
Creamy pasta is the ultimate comfort food, combining rich flavors with a luscious texture that melts in your mouth. Whether you’re enjoying a cozy night in or hosting a dinner party, this dish is sure to impress. With its creamy sauce, fresh ingredients, and easy preparation, creamy pasta is a delightful addition to your culinary repertoire.
Ingredients
400g fettuccine, 200ml heavy cream, 100g grated Parmesan cheese, 2 cloves garlic (minced), 200g cherry tomatoes (halved), 2 tablespoons olive oil, salt and pepper to taste, fresh basil for garnish.
Servings and Cooking Time
This recipe serves 4 people. Preparation time is approximately 10 minutes, and cooking time is around 15 minutes.
Nutritional Value
Each serving (1/4 of the recipe) contains approximately 450 calories, 25g of fat, 40g of carbohydrates, and 12g of protein. This is based on standard ingredients used in the recipe.
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
- Boil a large pot of salted water and cook the fettuccine according to package instructions until al dente.
- While pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add minced garlic to the skillet and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute.
- Stir in the cherry tomatoes and cook until they begin to soften, about 3-4 minutes.
- Reduce heat and pour in the heavy cream, stirring to combine.
- Add grated Parmesan cheese, stirring until melted and smooth.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Drain the pasta and add it directly to the skillet with the sauce.
- Toss everything together until the pasta is well coated in the creamy sauce.
- Serve immediately, garnished with fresh basil leaves.
Alternative Ingredients
You can substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or a plant-based cream for a lighter or dairy-free option. Additionally, swap Parmesan for nutritional yeast for a vegan alternative.
Serving and Pairings
This creamy pasta pairs beautifully with a side salad or garlic bread. For a protein boost, consider adding grilled chicken or shrimp.
Storage and Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently on the stove with a splash of milk or cream to restore the sauce’s consistency. This dish is not recommended for freezing due to the cream sauce.
Cooking Mistakes
- Overcooking the pasta can lead to a mushy texture.
- Not seasoning the water can result in bland pasta.
- Adding cheese too quickly may cause clumping instead of a smooth sauce.
- Using low-fat cream can affect the richness of the sauce.
- Forgetting to reserve pasta water can limit sauce consistency.
Helpful Tips
- Always taste the sauce before serving to adjust seasoning.
- Use freshly grated cheese for better flavor.
- Experiment with different herbs for added flavor.
- For a spicier kick, add red pepper flakes.
FAQs
Can I use other types of pasta?
Yes, you can use any pasta shape you prefer, such as penne or spaghetti. Adjust cooking times as needed based on the pasta type.
Is this recipe suitable for vegetarians?
Absolutely! This creamy pasta is vegetarian-friendly, as it contains no meat. Just ensure the cheese is rennet-free for strict vegetarians.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
While the pasta is best enjoyed fresh, you can prepare the sauce ahead of time and store it in the fridge. Cook the pasta just before serving.
What can I add for extra flavor?
Consider adding sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or sun-dried tomatoes to enhance the dish’s flavor and nutritional value.
How can I make it lighter?
You can use light cream or a combination of Greek yogurt and milk for a lighter sauce without sacrificing flavor.
Conclusion
Creamy pasta is not just a meal; it’s an experience that brings comfort and joy. With its rich flavors and simple preparation, it’s perfect for any occasion. Enjoy this dish with family and friends, and don’t forget to customize it to your taste!
Creamy Pasta
Ingredients
- 400 g fettuccine
- 200 ml heavy cream
- 100 g grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 200 g cherry tomatoes halved
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil for garnish
Instructions
- Boil a large pot of salted water and cook the fettuccine according to package instructions until al dente.
- While pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add minced garlic to the skillet and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute.
- Stir in the cherry tomatoes and cook until they begin to soften, about 3-4 minutes.
- Reduce heat and pour in the heavy cream, stirring to combine.
- Add grated Parmesan cheese, stirring until melted and smooth.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Drain the pasta and add it directly to the skillet with the sauce.
- Toss everything together until the pasta is well coated in the creamy sauce.
- Serve immediately, garnished with fresh basil leaves.
