Creamy Tomato and Cheese Pasta

This pasta dish combines the freshness of tomatoes with a luscious creaminess, all while being simple to prepare—perfect for a lazy lunch!

Ingredients

• 200g pasta (your choice, like spaghetti or penne)
• 2 medium tomatoes, diced
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon homemade butter
• ½ cup milk
• ½ cup cream
• 100g cheese (like mozzarella or cheddar), grated
• 1 teaspoon chili flakes (adjust based on your spice preference)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh basil (optional, for garnish)

Instructions

1. Cook the Pasta:

   • Boil a pot of salted water and cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve ½ cup of the pasta cooking water and then drain the pasta.

2. Sauté Vegetables:

   • In a large skillet, melt the homemade butter over medium heat. Add the onions and sauté until they are translucent.
   • Add the garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.

3. Prepare the Tomato Sauce:

   • Add the diced tomatoes to the skillet and cook until they start to soften (about 3-4 minutes).
   • Pour in the milk and cream, stirring well to combine. Let it simmer for about 2-3 minutes to thicken slightly.

4. Combine Pasta and Sauce:

   • Add the drained pasta to the skillet. Toss well to coat the pasta in the creamy tomato sauce. If the sauce is too thick, add a little of the reserved pasta cooking water until you've reached your desired consistency.
   • Mix in the grated cheese, allowing it to melt into the sauce, and season with chili flakes, salt, and pepper to taste.

5. Serve:

   • Once everything is incorporated and heated through, plate the pasta. Garnish with fresh basil if desired and enjoy your lazy Italian lunch!

Flavor Profile

This dish balances the natural sweetness of tomatoes with the creaminess of milk and cheese, creating a comforting and satisfying meal. The touch of chili flakes adds a slight kick without overwhelming the overall sweetness, making it a delightful option for your lunch.

Let me know if you'd like any modifications or additional details! Happy cooking!