We’ve always been fans of our Cream Tomatoes Recipe, a simple yet irresistible dish that transforms ripe tomatoes into a velvety delight. It’s perfect for cozy dinners or quick weeknight meals, blending fresh flavors with creamy richness that everyone loves.
This classic favorite draws from everyday ingredients, yet it packs a punch of comfort and taste. We’ll show you how to whip it up effortlessly, making it a go-to in your kitchen too.
Ingredients
In our Cream Tomatoes Recipe, we start with the freshest ingredients to create a creamy, flavorful dish that highlights ripe tomatoes as the star. Below, we’ve organized the ingredients in the order they’re used, with prep notes for precision and ease.
- Tomatoes: 4 large ripe tomatoes (such as Roma or beefsteak), chopped into 1-inch cubes for quick cooking and to release their natural juices early in the process.
- Onion: 1 medium yellow onion, finely diced to build a flavorful base as the first item we sauté.
- Garlic: 3 cloves, minced to add aromatic depth right after the onion.
- Olive Oil: 2 tablespoons, for sautéing the onion and garlic to ensure even browning without sticking.
- Heavy Cream: 1 cup, added towards the end to achieve that rich, velvety creaminess that defines this recipe.
- Fresh Basil: ¼ cup, roughly torn, to stir in just before serving for a burst of herby freshness.
- Salt and Black Pepper: 1 teaspoon salt and ½ teaspoon black pepper, to taste, seasoned throughout for balanced flavor.
- Optional Add-ins: ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese, if desired, for an extra layer of nutty creaminess when finishing the dish.
Required Equipment
To bring our Cream Tomatoes Recipe to life with ease and precision, we need a few essential tools that ensure smooth preparation and optimal results. Gathering these items beforehand helps us transition seamlessly from measuring ingredients to cooking.
Tools Needed
For our Cream Tomatoes Recipe, here’s a detailed list of the key tools we’ll use, organized by preparation stage. We’ve bolded main tools for emphasis and italicized important tips to guide you effectively:
- Cutting Board: A sturdy, non-slip cutting board is crucial for safely chopping tomatoes, onions, and garlic. We recommend a large one to minimize mess.
- Chef’s Knife: Use a sharp chef’s knife for precise dicing and mincing—it’s essential for handling fresh produce efficiently. Keep it honed to avoid accidents and ensure clean cuts.
- Skillet or Saucepan: A medium-sized skillet or saucepan (at least 10 inches) is ideal for sautéing and simmering the creamy mixture. Opt for non-stick if you’re concerned about sticking.
- Wooden Spoon: This versatile tool is perfect for stirring ingredients without scratching your cookware. We find it best for blending flavors as the sauce thickens.
- Measuring Cups and Spoons: Accurate measurements are key, so use a set of measuring cups and spoons for ingredients like olive oil and seasonings. This ensures our recipe’s balance of flavors.
- Garlic Press (Optional): If you’re mincing garlic, a garlic press speeds up the process and releases more flavor. It’s a handy tool for quick prep in our routine cooking.
By using these tools, we can prepare our Cream Tomatoes Recipe confidently and achieve that perfect creamy texture every time.
Instructions
Now that we have gathered our fresh ingredients and essential tools, we guide you through preparing our creamy Cream Tomatoes recipe with straightforward steps for a rich, velvety dish bursting with tomato flavor.
Prep
First, we start by preparing the vegetables to ensure everything is ready for cooking. Begin with the four large ripe tomatoes: wash them under cold water, pat dry with a clean towel, and core each one before dicing into 1-inch cubes for even cooking. Next, peel and finely chop the medium yellow onion into small pieces, aiming for about 1 cup to build a flavorful base. Mince 2-3 cloves of garlic using a sharp knife or garlic press, creating a fragrant paste that will enhance the dish’s aroma.
For the herbs and seasonings, tear a handful of fresh basil leaves into smaller pieces, reserving a few whole leaves for garnish to add a burst of peppery freshness. Measure out 2 tablespoons of olive oil for sautéing, 1 cup of heavy cream for the creamy texture, and prepare salt and black pepper to taste. If using the optional grated Parmesan cheese (about ¼ cup), grate it finely now to melt smoothly into the mixture. This preparation sets the stage for a dish with vibrant colors and irresistible scents.
Cook
Once prepped, we move to cooking to develop deep flavors. Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a medium-sized skillet over medium heat until it shimmers, then add the chopped onion and cook for 3-5 minutes, stirring with a wooden spoon until it turns translucent and releases a sweet aroma. Introduce the minced garlic and cook for another 1 minute, being careful not to brown it, as this prevents bitterness and keeps the garlic’s nutty essence intact.
Add the diced tomatoes to the skillet and cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they soften and release their juices, creating a bubbly mixture that fills the kitchen with a fresh, tangy scent. For added creaminess, pour in 1 cup of heavy cream and stir well, letting the sauce simmer for 2-3 minutes until it thickens to a luxurious, velvety consistency that coats the back of the spoon.
Assemble
To finish, we assemble the dish for the perfect balance of flavors and textures. Stir in the torn basil leaves and season with salt and black pepper to taste, allowing the herbs to wilt gently for 1 minute and infuse a bright, herbaceous note. If desired, sprinkle in the ¼ cup of grated Parmesan cheese and mix until it melts, adding a salty, nutty depth that elevates the creaminess.
For serving, transfer the mixture to bowls and garnish with the reserved whole basil leaves for a pop of color and freshness. This step ensures our Cream Tomatoes dish is not only visually appealing but also delivers a comforting, silky mouthfeel that pairs wonderfully with crusty bread or pasta.
Make-Ahead Instructions
As we guide you through our Cream Tomatoes Recipe, making parts of it ahead of time can enhance flavors and simplify your cooking routine. This approach allows the rich, creamy tomato sauce to develop even more depth, turning a quick weeknight meal into something truly effortless and delicious.
Prepping Ingredients in Advance
We recommend preparing the vegetables and other components up to 24 hours before cooking to save time without compromising freshness:
- Wash and dice the tomatoes: Start by washing four large ripe tomatoes under cold water, then dice them into even 1-inch pieces. Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator to maintain their juicy texture.
- Chop the onion and mince the garlic: Dice one medium yellow onion into fine pieces and mince two cloves of garlic. Place them in separate sealed bags or containers in the fridge, as this prevents the garlic’s pungent aroma from overpowering other ingredients.
- Measure seasonings: Combine 1 teaspoon of salt, ½ teaspoon of black pepper, and any optional add-ins like grated Parmesan cheese in a small bowl or jar. This keeps everything ready for quick assembly.
Cooking and Storing the Sauce
For a more advanced make-ahead option, we suggest cooking the sauce base ahead and reheating it when needed. This method lets the creamy flavors meld, resulting in a velvety, aromatic dish that’s even more satisfying.
Follow these steps to prepare and store:
- Sauté the base: In a medium-sized skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, stirring with a wooden spoon until the onion turns golden and fragrant, about 3-5 minutes.
- Add tomatoes and cream: Incorporate the diced tomatoes, then pour in 1 cup of heavy cream. Simmer the mixture for 10-15 minutes until it thickens into a rich, smooth sauce. Stir in fresh basil leaves for a burst of herbaceous brightness.
- Cool and store: Let the sauce cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container. Refrigerate for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 2 months to preserve its creamy consistency and vibrant flavors.
Reheating and Serving Tips
When you’re ready to enjoy your Cream Tomatoes, we make reheating straightforward to ensure the dish retains its comforting appeal:
- From the refrigerator: Warm the sauce in a skillet over low heat for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally until it’s heated through and creamy again. Add a splash of water or cream if it thickens too much.
- From the freezer: Thaw overnight in the refrigerator, then reheat as above. For the best results, refresh with fresh basil and a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese just before serving to enhance the sauce’s savory notes.
| Storage Method | Duration | Best Practices |
|---|---|---|
| Refrigeration | Up to 3 days | Keep in an airtight container to maintain freshness and prevent odor absorption. |
| Freezing | Up to 2 months | Use freezer-safe bags or containers; label with the date for easy tracking. |
Conclusion
We’ve enjoyed guiding you through this Cream Tomatoes Recipe and hope it’s become a go-to in your kitchen. It’s that perfect blend of ease and flavor we all crave for everyday meals.
Remember we’re here to inspire more tasty creations so dive in and savor every bite.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Cream Tomatoes Recipe?
The Cream Tomatoes Recipe is a simple, comforting dish that transforms ripe tomatoes into a creamy delight. It’s perfect for cozy dinners or quick weeknight meals, combining fresh flavors with rich creaminess. This easy guide helps you make it a staple in your kitchen, ideal for serving with bread or pasta.
What ingredients are needed for Cream Tomatoes?
You’ll need four large ripe tomatoes, a medium yellow onion, minced garlic, olive oil, heavy cream, fresh basil, salt, black pepper, and optional grated Parmesan cheese. These are organized by use for convenience, ensuring a flavorful, creamy sauce.
What equipment is required for the recipe?
Essential tools include a sturdy cutting board, sharp chef’s knife, medium-sized skillet or saucepan, wooden spoon, and measuring cups and spoons. An optional garlic press can help. They’re listed by preparation stage to make cooking straightforward and efficient.
How do I prepare and cook Cream Tomatoes?
Start by washing and dicing tomatoes, chopping onion, and mincing garlic. Sauté onion and garlic in olive oil, add tomatoes and heavy cream, then simmer until velvety. Stir in fresh basil and optional Parmesan for flavor. Serve with crusty bread or pasta for a comforting meal.
Can I make Cream Tomatoes ahead of time?
Yes, prep ingredients like dicing tomatoes and chopping onions up to 24 hours in advance. Cook the sauce base ahead and store in the fridge or freezer. This saves time and enhances flavors, making it easy for busy days.
How should I store and reheat the Cream Tomatoes sauce?
Store the sauce in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days or freeze for up to 3 months to maintain freshness. Reheat gently on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally, and add a splash of cream if needed to restore creaminess.