Ingredients
Equipment
Method
Cook the Pasta
- Bring a large pot of salted water (about 8 cups water with 1 tsp salt) to a rolling boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package directions until al dente. Before draining, reserve 1 to 1.5 cups of the starchy pasta water. Drain the pasta and set aside.
Prepare the Corn and Tomato Base
- While the pasta is cooking, heat the olive oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the diced shallots and sauté for 3-4 minutes until softened and translucent.
- Add the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.
- Stir in the corn kernels. Increase the heat slightly to medium-high and cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the corn begins to lightly blister and caramelize.
- Add the cherry tomatoes to the skillet. Cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the tomatoes soften and some begin to burst, releasing their juices.
Create the Creamy Sauce
- Pour in the vegetable broth (or white wine) and scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan. Let it simmer for 1-2 minutes until slightly reduced.
- Reduce the heat to medium-low. Stir in the heavy cream and the softened cream cheese cubes. Whisk continuously until the cream cheese is fully melted and incorporated, creating a smooth, creamy sauce.
- Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese, 1/2 tsp salt, and 1/4 tsp black pepper. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
Combine and Serve
- Add the cooked and drained pasta to the skillet with the sauce. Toss to coat evenly. If the sauce is too thick, add reserved pasta water, 1/4 cup at a time, until it reaches your desired consistency.
- Remove from heat. Stir in the fresh lemon juice and chopped basil.
- Serve immediately, garnished with extra fresh basil and a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese.
Notes
For a touch of spice, add a pinch of red pepper flakes with the garlic. Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop, adding a splash of milk or broth if the sauce has thickened too much.
