When it comes to quick, flavorful, and satisfying meals, few dishes can compete with the classic Tomato Basil Pasta.
This Italian-inspired recipe is a celebration of fresh ingredients and straightforward preparation, making it a perfect choice for weeknight dinners or casual gatherings. Whether you’re a seasoned home cook or a beginner in the kitchen, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your culinary repertoire.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Simple Ingredients: This dish relies on pantry staples and fresh produce you can easily find at any grocery store.
Quick Prep Time: From start to finish, you can have this pasta on the table in under 30 minutes.
Customizable: Add your favorite protein or vegetables for a unique twist.
Healthy and Wholesome: Packed with antioxidants from tomatoes and basil, this meal is both nourishing and delicious.
Ingredients
To make the ultimate Tomato Basil Pasta, you’ll need the following:
Pasta: 12 ounces of spaghetti, linguine, or your favorite pasta shape.
Olive Oil: 2 tablespoons of high-quality extra virgin olive oil.
Garlic: 4 cloves, finely minced.
Cherry Tomatoes: 2 cups, halved (you can also use diced Roma tomatoes).
Tomato Paste: 2 tablespoons for added depth of flavor.
Fresh Basil Leaves: 1 cup, loosely packed and torn.
Salt and Pepper: To taste.
Red Pepper Flakes: ½ teaspoon for a hint of spice (optional).
Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated, for serving.
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of the pasta cooking water before draining.
2. Sauté Garlic and Tomatoes
In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic.
Add the halved cherry tomatoes and cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they soften and release their juices. Stir in the tomato paste and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes to enhance the sauce’s flavor.
3. Combine Pasta and Sauce
Lower the heat to medium-low. Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss to coat it in the tomato mixture. Gradually add the reserved pasta water, a few tablespoons at a time, to achieve your desired sauce consistency.
4. Add Fresh Basil
Stir in the torn basil leaves and season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using). Cook for another 1-2 minutes until the basil wilts slightly.
5. Serve and Garnish
Plate the pasta and top with freshly grated Parmesan cheese. For an extra touch, drizzle a bit of olive oil over the top. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Tips for Success
Choose Ripe Tomatoes: The quality of your tomatoes will make or break this dish. Opt for sweet, ripe cherry or Roma tomatoes.
Don’t Skip the Pasta Water: The starchy cooking water helps emulsify the sauce and ensures it clings beautifully to the pasta.
Use Fresh Basil: Dried basil won’t deliver the same vibrant flavor as fresh leaves.
Experiment with Add-Ins: Grilled chicken, shrimp, or sautéed mushrooms can elevate this dish even further.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I use canned tomatoes instead of fresh ones? Absolutely! While fresh tomatoes are ideal for their bright flavor, you can use high-quality canned tomatoes like San Marzano if fresh ones aren’t available. Simply crush the canned tomatoes before adding them to the skillet.
2. What type of pasta works best for this recipe? This recipe is incredibly versatile. While spaghetti or linguine is traditional, you can use penne, fusilli, or even gluten-free pasta based on your preference.
3. Can I make this dish vegan? Yes! To make it vegan, omit the Parmesan cheese or substitute it with a vegan alternative like nutritional yeast or a dairy-free Parmesan.
4. How can I store leftovers? Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of water to loosen the sauce if needed.
5. Is this dish kid-friendly? Definitely! The mild flavors and fun pasta shapes make it a hit with kids. You can omit the red pepper flakes to keep it entirely kid-friendly.
6. What can I serve alongside Tomato Basil Pasta? Pair this dish with a crisp green salad, garlic bread, or roasted vegetables for a complete meal. A glass of chilled white wine or sparkling water with lemon also complements the flavors beautifully.
7. Can I make the sauce ahead of time? Yes! The tomato and basil sauce can be prepared up to 2 days in advance. Store it in the refrigerator and reheat it gently before tossing it with freshly cooked pasta.
Nutrition Information (Per Serving)
Calories: 320
Protein: 9g
Carbohydrates: 50g
Fat: 10g
Fiber: 4g
Conclusion
Tomato Basil Pasta is proof that simple ingredients, when combined thoughtfully, can create culinary magic. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or looking for a quick meal after a busy day, this recipe is your go-to solution. It’s fresh, flavorful, and endlessly versatile—a dish you’ll return to time and time again. Try it today and savor the taste of Italy from the comfort of your home!
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