Perfectly Balanced Tomato Basil Pasta

In this article, we will explore a delicious recipe that promises to delight your taste buds - the perfectly balanced Tomato Basil Pasta. This classic dish is simple yet satisfying and can be prepared in just 30 minutes for four servings. If you're looking to create a meal that brings together all the essential flavors of summer with minimal effort, this pasta recipe is perfect.

Tomato-based dishes are among the most popular meals worldwide, loved by many thanks to their versatility and ease of preparation. Whether enjoyed as part of your daily routine or for a special dinner night, you can never go wrong with a tomato dish. The key ingredients include fresh tomatoes, aromatic basil leaves, garlic, olive oil, and pasta. For this recipe, we use cherry tomatoes and whole wheat penne, ensuring a balanced meal that is not only tasty but also healthier.

Ingredients

• 16 ounces (450g) of whole wheat penne pasta
• 3 cups of cherry tomatoes, halved
• 2 cloves of garlic, minced
• 1 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Parmesan cheese (optional)

Method

To start, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. While the pasta is boiling, heat up your olive oil in another pan over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté until it becomes golden brown.

Add the cherry tomatoes to the same pan and let them cook down slightly, breaking them with a spoon as they begin to soften. This process will help release the juices from the tomatoes and create a rich sauce base. While the tomatoes are cooking, drain your pasta when it is al dente (firm to the bite) and set aside.

Once the tomatoes have cooked down enough, remove the garlic cloves and discard them. Add the cooked cherry tomatoes back into the pan with their juices. Stir in the chopped basil leaves and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper to taste. If you prefer a more savory dish, add some grated Parmesan cheese for extra flavor.

Now it’s time to combine everything together! Toss your al dente pasta directly into the tomato sauce mixture using tongs or a large spoon. Let them heat through thoroughly while stirring gently so that each strand of pasta gets coated perfectly with the robust and flavorful tomato basil sauce.

Cooking Time & Servings

This recipe can be prepared in approximately 30 minutes, serving four people comfortably. It is ideal for those who want a quick yet hearty meal without compromising on quality or taste.

Tips and Variations

• Use different types of pasta: Feel free to experiment with other shapes like spirals or fusilli if you prefer. They add interesting texture contrasts within the dish.
• Increase spice levels: If you enjoy more heat, incorporate some crushed red pepper flakes into your tomato sauce for an extra kick!
• Substitute ingredients: You can replace cherry tomatoes with other types of tomatoes such as plum or even sun-dried ones. Just make sure they complement the overall flavor profile.

The key to making this dish successful lies in achieving a balance between sweet tomato sweetness and savory basil notes, balanced by earthy pasta that ties everything together. This classic combination makes Tomato Basil Pasta irresistible for both beginners and experienced cooks alike!

Conclusion

Achieving a perfectly balanced Tomato Basil Pasta is achievable with just a few simple steps! With its straightforward ingredients list, this dish offers endless possibilities for customization according to personal preferences. Whether enjoyed as part of your weekday dinner routine or shared during social gatherings, you can count on this recipe to please everyone around the table.