Fettucini With Tomato And Basil Sauce
Fettucini with fresh tomato and basil sauce offers a vibrant, aromatic Italian-inspired dish perfect for quick weeknight dinners or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Put garlic, olive oil, tomatoes, salt, and pepper in a saucepan. Cook for 5 minutes.
- Add basil leaves to the sauce.
- Cook for 5 minutes more to let flavors meld.
- Cook fettucini as directed on the package.
- Drain the fettucini and toss with the tomato basil sauce.
- Top with grated Parmesan cheese before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
To enhance the flavor of your sauce, consider using heirloom tomatoes for a richer taste. If fresh basil is unavailable, dried basil can be used, but reduce the amount to one-third. For a spicier kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes. This dish is also delicious with a sprinkle of lemon zest for added brightness.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the fettucini with tomato and basil sauce hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese for extra flavor. This dish pairs beautifully with Baked Italian Bread for a complete meal. For a refreshing side, consider a simple arugula salad dressed with olive oil and lemon. A crisp white wine complements the dish perfectly.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, gently warm the pasta and sauce in a saucepan over low heat, adding a splash of water or olive oil if needed to loosen the sauce. Avoid microwaving to prevent the pasta from becoming mushy.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Fettucini With Tomato And Basil Sauce contains roughly 1112 calories, with 6g protein, 6g carbohydrates, and 121g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (46% of the Daily Value), vitamin C (36% of the Daily Value), and iron (32% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein and potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1797mg per serving (78% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use other types of pasta for this recipe?
Absolutely! While fettucini is traditional, you can substitute with spaghetti, penne, or any pasta you prefer. Just adjust the cooking time according to the pasta shape you choose to ensure it's cooked perfectly.
Is this dish suitable for vegans?
Yes, the fettucini with tomato and basil sauce is naturally vegan. To keep it vegan, simply omit the Parmesan cheese or use a plant-based alternative. This makes it a great option for anyone following vegetarian recipes or a vegan diet.
Can I make the sauce ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the tomato and basil sauce ahead of time. Allow it to cool and store it in the refrigerator for up to three days. When ready to serve, reheat the sauce gently while cooking fresh fettucini for a quick and delicious meal.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).