“Cooking is like love. It should be entered into with abandon or not at all.” – Harriet Van Horne. This quote captures the joy of making tomato basil pasta. It’s a celebration of fresh ingredients and flavors, a favorite in our kitchens.
This dish combines ripe cherry tomatoes and fragrant basil. It’s simple yet satisfying. Plus, it’s quick to make, ready in under 20 minutes. It’s perfect for busy nights or family gatherings.
Let’s explore the world of tomato basil pasta together. It’s not just food; it’s a way to nourish our bodies and warm our hearts. We’ll learn to make it, savoring the love in every bite.
Introduction to Tomato Basil Pasta
Tomato Basil Pasta is a classic Italian dish. It’s known for its rich flavors and bright colors. This quick recipe shows the beauty of Italian cooking with just a few ingredients.
It’s a favorite in many homes, loved for its flexibility. You can use fresh or canned tomatoes, and it’s always tasty. The mix of tangy tomatoes and fragrant basil is perfect for adding your own twist.
This dish brings back happy memories, from family dinners to cozy nights in. It’s easy to make in under thirty minutes, without losing flavor. Many recipes start with Tomato Basil Pasta, inviting us to make it our own.
| Nutritional Information (per serving) | Value |
|---|---|
| Calories | 472 kcal |
| Carbohydrates | 37 g |
| Protein | 17 g |
| Fat | 27 g |
| Saturated Fat | 12 g |
| Cholesterol | 70 mg |
| Sodium | 868 mg |
| Fiber | 2 g |
| Sugar | 4 g |
| Calcium | 181 mg |
Why Tomato Basil Pasta is a Favorite
Tomato Basil Pasta is loved for its easy making and fresh taste. It cooks in just 21 minutes, perfect for busy nights. It’s a quick, tasty meal that everyone enjoys.
This dish has a 5 out of 39 vote rating, showing it’s a hit with cooks. It uses olive oil, garlic, cherry tomatoes, and basil. This makes it a great choice for those who love vegetarian pasta.
Tomato Basil Pasta is also loved for its flexibility. You can add chicken, shrimp, or tofu to make it your own. Adding heavy cream or ricotta makes it creamier. This makes it a dish that everyone can enjoy, no matter their taste.
Families love this recipe because it’s good for both kids and adults. The bright colors and rich flavors make mealtime fun. Plus, using fresh basil adds to the dish’s amazing taste. If you don’t have fresh basil, dried works too.
In short, Tomato Basil Pasta is a favorite in many homes. Its ease, flexibility, and family appeal make it a go-to dish. It always brings a comforting, delicious meal to the table.
Ingredients for Our Easy Pasta Dish
To make a tasty homemade tomato basil pasta, we need the right ingredients. Fresh produce makes the dish even better. Here’s what we’ll need:
- 200 grams of Angel Hair Pasta (or your favorite pasta like spaghetti or penne)
- 3 ½ cups of ripe cherry tomatoes
- 1 cup of fresh basil leaves
- 1 tablespoon of minced garlic
- 3 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil
- 1 tablespoon of butter
- 1 tablespoon of salt
- Optional: Fresh mozzarella or Bocconcini
- Optional: Chili flakes for added heat
Fresh cherry tomatoes add a sweet, juicy taste. The basil gives it a classic Italian flavor. Choose Angel Hair pasta for its lightness, but any pasta will do. Let the sauce thicken for a creamy texture.
Here’s a nutritional breakdown per serving of our homemade tomato basil pasta:
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 329 kcal |
| Carbohydrates | 44 g |
| Protein | 9 g |
| Fat | 13 g |
| Saturated Fat | 2 g |
| Sodium | 1762 mg |
| Potassium | 413 mg |
| Fiber | 3 g |
| Sugar | 5 g |
| Vitamin A | 954 IU |
| Vitamin C | 31 mg |
| Calcium | 44 mg |
| Iron | 2 mg |
Tomato Basil Pasta: The Easy Pasta Recipe
We’re excited to share our easy pasta recipe for Tomato Basil Pasta. It turns any busy evening into a gourmet meal. This recipe is ready in about 20 minutes, making it a quick 30-minute pasta meal.
To make this dish, we need the following ingredients:
- 12 ounces of spaghetti noodles
- 2 tablespoons of olive oil
- 5 cloves of garlic, minced
- 2 pounds of diced Roma tomatoes or cherry tomatoes
- 1 cup of fresh basil leaves
- 1/4 cup of grated Parmesan cheese, plus more for serving
Here’s a step-by-step guide:
- Boil a large pot of salted water and cook the spaghetti until al dente.
- In a separate skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté until fragrant but not burned.
- Add the diced tomatoes to the skillet and cook until they burst, about 12-15 minutes. This makes a rich sauce.
- Once the tomatoes burst, stir in the fresh basil and mix well.
- Drain the spaghetti and toss it with the tomato sauce until well-coated.
- Serve immediately, topped with freshly grated Parmesan cheese.
This easy pasta recipe brings vibrant flavors and is nutritious. Each serving has about 432 calories, 60g of carbs, and 23g of protein. It’s a great mix of taste and nutrition for our busy lives.
| Nutritional Information (per serving) | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 432 kcal |
| Carbohydrates | 60 g |
| Protein | 23 g |
| Fat | 11 g |
| Saturated Fat | 3 g |
| Fiber | 4 g |
| Sodium | 241 mg |
| Vitamin A | 1865 IU |
| Vitamin C | 27 mg |
With our simple instructions and quick cooking time, we can enjoy this Tomato Basil Pasta. It’s perfect for busy weeknights or informal gatherings.
Cooking Method for Tomato Basil Pasta
Cooking tomato basil pasta right is key for great taste and texture. Start by cooking the pasta as the package says, aiming for al dente. Thin spaghetti or angel hair pasta usually takes 8 to 10 minutes.
While the pasta cooks, we make the sauce. Heat 4 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil in a skillet over medium. Add chopped onions and garlic and cook for 5 minutes. This makes the oil taste amazing.
Then, add a 28-ounce can of diced tomatoes and 1-2 tablespoons of balsamic vinegar. Let it simmer for 5 to 8 minutes. The tomatoes will burst, making a fresh sauce.
Mixing the pasta with the sauce is crucial. Save ½ to 1 cup of pasta water before draining. This water makes the sauce smoother. Add it to the skillet while tossing the pasta and sauce together.
Finish with ½ cup of chopped basil and ½ cup of grated parmesan cheese. This adds richness and freshness. Serve it right away for the best taste. Leftovers can be stored for a day or two, reheated with a bit of water or tomato juice.
Tips for Perfecting Your Tomato Basil Pasta
Our journey to enhance pasta flavors starts with fresh ingredients. Using ripe tomatoes, whether fresh or canned, makes a big difference. We suggest using 1kg of fresh tomatoes or 2 x 400g tins of quality chopped tomatoes. This way, we can adjust based on what’s available while keeping the flavor great.
Salting our pasta water is key. It prevents the pasta from tasting bland and boosts flavors during cooking. A tablespoon of salt for every liter of water is perfect for seasoning.
Texture is important in pasta dishes. We should cook the pasta until it’s al dente, which takes 8-10 minutes. Checking it often ensures it’s just right, with a nice firmness and chewiness.
Seasoning our sauce is crucial. Adding red pepper flakes for heat and garlic for depth can change the flavor. Since everyone likes different things, we can adjust the amounts to suit our taste.
Here are some helpful customization options we can consider:
- Omitting or substituting parmesan cheese with vegan alternatives for dietary restrictions.
- Incorporating fresh mozzarella for a creamier texture.
- Adding a protein on the side, such as grilled chicken or shrimp, to create a more satisfying meal.
With these tips, we can make a dish that suits our taste and dietary needs. Our recipe is simple and budget-friendly. It’s perfect for family dinners or when we have guests over.
| Customizations | Suggestions |
|---|---|
| Cheese Options | Parmesan, Vegan parmesan, Fresh mozzarella |
| Protein Additions | Grilled chicken, Shrimp, Tofu |
| Heat Level | Red pepper flakes, Fresh chili |
Serving Suggestions for Tomato Basil Pasta
When serving tomato basil pasta, we can make the meal better by adding side dishes and presentation tips. A crispy panini or a fresh garden salad can enhance the taste and texture. The pasta’s simplicity makes it easy to mix with different flavors.
To make the dish look good, garnish with fresh basil leaves and olive oil. This adds color and aroma. A sprinkle of Parmesan cheese on top adds a savory flavor.
Here are some pasta meal ideas that go well with tomato basil pasta:
- Crispy garlic bread or baguette
- Fresh arugula salad with lemon vinaigrette
- Roasted vegetables, such as zucchini and bell peppers
- Drink Pairings:
- Chilled white wine like Sauvignon Blanc
- Refreshing iced tea or lemonade
- Sparkling water with a slice of lemon
For a nice dining experience, use elegant dinnerware and add decorations that show the dish’s freshness. Seasonal fruits or herbs can make a great centerpiece.
Here’s a summary of the nutritional content of our dish for those watching their diet:
| Nutritional Component | Per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 556 kcal |
| Carbohydrates | 90 g |
| Protein | 18 g |
| Fat | 14 g |
| Fiber | 5 g |
| Sugar | 6 g |
| Vitamin A | 1268 IU |
| Vitamin C | 17 mg |
| Calcium | 102 mg |
| Iron | 2 mg |
With the right sides and garnishes, serving tomato basil pasta will impress your guests. It’s quick to make in 15 minutes, making for a satisfying meal without the hassle of long cooking times.
Variations and Enhancements
We can make our dish better by adding different proteins. Grilled chicken or shrimp are great choices. They add flavor and make our meal healthier.
Adding veggies like spinach, zucchini, or red peppers is also a good idea. They bring color and texture to our dish.
If fresh tomatoes are out of season, canned tomatoes work well too. We can also try different cheeses like mozzarella, feta, or pecorino. Each cheese gives a unique taste to our pasta.
A bit of balsamic vinegar or red pepper flakes can also enhance the flavor. These changes make our dish more enjoyable.
These variations let us tailor our tomato basil pasta to our liking. Whether we stick to the original or try new things, we’ll always have a tasty meal. Exploring these ideas makes our pasta more personal and fun to make.
