Tomato Cream Pasta Sauce
A rich and creamy tomato pasta sauce with fresh basil and garlic, perfect for a quick, flavorful meal that pairs beautifully with vermicelli or your favorite pasta.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook ingredients in a pan for 12 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Stir in whipping cream at the end and simmer for an additional 10 minutes.
- Serve the sauce over cooked vermicelli or your choice of pasta.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes or a splash of white wine while cooking the tomatoes. If fresh tomatoes are not available, canned whole tomatoes can be a great substitute. You can also swap out the whipping cream for a lighter option like half-and-half or a non-dairy cream for a vegan version. Fresh basil can be replaced with dried herbs if necessary, but adjust the amount accordingly.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this Tomato Cream Pasta Sauce over cooked vermicelli or your favorite pasta for a delightful meal. It pairs beautifully with Fried Zucchini(Italian Squash) for a delicious side dish. A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette can complement the richness of the sauce. For a finishing touch, sprinkle freshly grated Parmesan cheese on top before serving and enjoy with crusty bread.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover Tomato Cream Pasta Sauce can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, gently warm it on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally. If the sauce thickens, you can add a splash of water or additional cream to reach your desired consistency. It can also be frozen for up to 3 months; thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Tomato Cream Pasta Sauce contains roughly 785 calories, with 5g protein, 5g carbohydrates, and 84g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (69% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin D. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1789mg per serving (78% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use different types of pasta with this sauce?
Absolutely! While vermicelli is a great choice, this Tomato Cream Pasta Sauce works well with any pasta type, such as penne, fettuccine, or even whole wheat options. Just ensure to adjust the cooking time for the pasta according to the package instructions for the best results.
Is it possible to make this sauce in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the sauce in advance and store it in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Just remember to add the whipping cream right before serving to maintain its creamy texture. You can make it ahead of time for easy meal prep, especially if you're hosting a gathering or want quick dinners during the week.
What can I add to make this sauce more hearty?
To make the Tomato Cream Pasta Sauce heartier, consider adding cooked protein such as grilled chicken, shrimp, or sautéed mushrooms. You could also mix in some cooked vegetables like spinach or zucchini for a nutritious boost. This makes the dish even more filling and satisfying, perfect for a family dinner.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).