Creamy Tomato and Feta Pasta: A Simple, Flavorful Recipe
This recipe for creamy tomato and feta pasta is a quick, easy, and incredibly delicious weeknight meal. It's packed with fresh flavors and requires minimal ingredients, making it perfect for busy cooks. The combination of sweet tomatoes, salty feta, and a touch of cream creates a rich and satisfying pasta dish that's sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients You'll Need:
This recipe is easily adaptable to your preferred pasta shape and the amount you're cooking for. Feel free to adjust the quantities based on your needs.
- 1 pound pasta: Your favorite pasta shape will work – penne, rotini, farfalle, or even spaghetti are all excellent choices.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: A good quality olive oil will enhance the overall flavor.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: For a more intense garlic flavor, consider using 3-4 cloves.
- 28 ounces canned crushed tomatoes: Look for high-quality canned tomatoes for the best taste.
- 1/2 cup heavy cream: This adds creaminess and richness to the sauce. Half-and-half or even milk can be substituted for a lighter version.
- 4 ounces feta cheese, crumbled: Crumbling the feta yourself ensures a better texture and distribution throughout the pasta.
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper: To taste. Adjust to your preferred level of seasoning.
- Fresh basil: For garnish (optional, but highly recommended!).
Instructions:
Follow these simple steps to create this delightful pasta dish:
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Cook your pasta according to package directions until al dente. Reserve about 1/2 cup of pasta water before draining.
Step 2: Sauté the Garlic
While the pasta is cooking, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute, or until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic.
Step 3: Simmer the Sauce
Add the crushed tomatoes to the skillet and bring to a simmer. Reduce heat to low and let it simmer for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally. This allows the flavors to meld together.
Step 4: Create the Creamy Sauce
Stir in the heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Simmer for another 2-3 minutes, or until the sauce has slightly thickened.
Step 5: Combine and Serve
Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss to coat evenly with the sauce. Stir in the crumbled feta cheese until melted and creamy. If the sauce is too thick, add a little of the reserved pasta water to thin it out.
Step 6: Garnish and Enjoy
Serve immediately, garnished with fresh basil leaves. A sprinkle of extra feta cheese is always a welcome addition.
Tips and Variations:
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little heat.
- Add some veggies: Sauté some chopped onions, bell peppers, or spinach with the garlic for extra flavor and nutrients.
- Make it vegetarian: This recipe is already vegetarian, but you can easily make it vegan by substituting the feta cheese with a vegan feta alternative and using plant-based cream.
- Cheese variations: Experiment with different cheeses! Goat cheese or ricotta would also be delicious additions.
This creamy tomato and feta pasta is a perfect example of how a simple recipe can deliver incredible flavor. Enjoy!
