Delicious Tomato Basil Pasta

Tomato basil pasta is one of those versatile dishes that can be enjoyed at any time of the day and for all occasions. The combination of juicy tomatoes, fresh basil, and al dente pasta makes it a favorite among many. This recipe not only satisfies your taste buds but also provides you with essential nutrients from vegetables and whole grains found in pasta.

For this recipe, we will serve 4 servings. The cooking time for this dish is approximately 20 minutes. Let's dive into the preparation process!

Ingredients:

1 pound (450g) pasta (penne or fusilli)
3 ripe tomatoes, chopped
1 small onion, finely chopped
4 cloves garlic, minced
2 tablespoons olive oil
2 tablespoons fresh basil leaves, chopped (about 6 large leaves)
Sea salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
Grated Parmesan cheese for serving

Cooking Instructions:

Start by bringing a large pot of water to a boil. Salt the water generously as you would with pasta.
Meanwhile, heat olive oil in a frying pan over medium heat. Add the chopped onions and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Then add minced garlic and sauté for another minute or so until fragrant but not browned.
Add the chopped tomatoes to the pot and stir gently. Let them simmer on low heat while you prepare your pasta.
Once your pasta is cooked al dente, drain it well without rinsing. Reserve about a cup of cooking water.
Add the drained pasta back into the pot with the tomato sauce. Toss everything together to combine and heat through. If needed, add some reserved pasta water to thin out the sauce slightly for your desired consistency.
Stir in freshly chopped basil leaves. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary, adding salt, pepper, or more olive oil as preferred.

To serve, plate up the pasta on individual plates and sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese before serving hot. Enjoy this comforting meal paired with a fresh salad and a glass of red wine for a complete dining experience!

Tips & Variations:

Vary the Pasta Type: Feel free to experiment by using different types of pasta like spaghetti, bow ties, or even quinoa noodles.
Add More Vegetables: For a heartier version, consider adding some sautéed mushrooms or zucchini along with your tomatoes.
Cheesy Twist: Substitute Parmesan with mozzarella for extra creaminess.

This dish is not only perfect for busy weeknight dinners but also great for potlucks and casual gatherings. It’s easy to customize based on your dietary preferences, whether it's a low-carb option or adding more veggies for better nutrition. Plus, leftovers can be stored in the fridge for up to three days, making this recipe even more versatile!

Nutritional Information:

Per Serving (approximate values):

Calories: 450 kcal
Total Fat: 13g
Saturated Fat: 2.5g
Cholesterol: 0mg
Sodium: 350mg
Total Carbohydrates: 75g
Dietary Fiber: 9g
Sugars: 8g
Protein: 14g

Tomato basil pasta is more than just a meal; it's a delightful way to explore Italian flavors in your kitchen. Whether you're a seasoned cook or new to the culinary scene, this recipe will be an enjoyable and satisfying experience.

Conclusion:

Tomato basil pasta isn't merely about its taste—it's also about bringing together simple yet powerful ingredients that make it special. With this guide, you have all the tools needed to create a delicious and memorable meal at home. So go ahead, try out different variations, and enjoy creating your own version of this beloved dish!