Quick & Easy Tomato Basil Pasta Recipe

Looking for a quick and easy tomato basil pasta dish? This versatile recipe is perfect for busy weeknights when you need something delicious yet simple to prepare at home. With minimal ingredients and straightforward preparation steps, this tomato basil pasta provides the perfect blend of flavors that satisfy any craving.

Ingredients

• 400g (14 oz) of spaghetti or your preferred pasta shape
• 5 large ripe tomatoes
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped finely
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Salt to taste
• Freshly ground black pepper
• Optional: Parmesan cheese or Pecorino for topping

Preparation Time & Servings

Cooking time: Approx 30 minutes including pasta cooking time. Number of servings: 4-6 people.

Steps to Make Tomato Basil Pasta

1. Boil the Pasta: Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil, add your chosen pasta, and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain well once done and set aside.
2. Cook Tomatoes: While the pasta is boiling, core and seed the tomatoes then chop them into small pieces suitable for blending or pureeing. Place these in a saucepan with minced garlic and 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat to cook until soft but not too mushy.
3. Mix Everything Together: Once the tomato mixture has thickened slightly, remove it from heat and mix everything together with your drained pasta. Add salt, pepper, and fresh basil for extra flavor. Taste test and adjust seasoning as needed.
4. Topping (Optional): Sprinkle some grated Parmesan or Pecorino over the dish to add a touch of richness and nuttiness if desired.

Why Choose This Recipe?

This tomato basil pasta is not only quick but also packed with flavor. The simplicity of this dish allows you to enjoy it without spending hours in the kitchen preparing complex meals. It’s ideal for those nights when you just want something comforting yet healthy.

Nutritional Information

• Calories: Approximately 375 kcal per serving (excluding optional toppings)
• Fat: ~10g
• Sodium: ~460mg
• Potassium: ~1,800mg
• Protein: ~12g

Tips for Making It Even Better:

1. Use Fresh Ingredients: Whenever possible, opt for fresh tomatoes and basil leaves instead of canned ones to get the best flavor.
2. Add More Sauce: For a richer sauce, simmer the tomatoes longer until they become more concentrated. You can also add some red pepper flakes if you like your pasta with a bit of heat.
3. Vary the Pasta Shape: Experiment with different shapes besides spaghetti – try fusilli, penne, or farfalle for added texture and presentation variety.

Presentation Ideas

To make this dish look even more appetizing on your table, consider garnishing it with a few extra basil leaves right before serving. Additionally, some freshly grated Parmesan cheese adds both color and flavor contrast to the dish.

Conclusion

Whether you're looking for an easy dinner option or want something special enough to impress guests, this quick tomato basil pasta recipe ticks all the boxes. Its simplicity belies its deliciousness, making it a go-to choice in any home kitchen. Enjoy your meal!