Fresh Tomato Basil Pasta Sauce
Fresh tomato basil pasta sauce combines ripe tomatoes and fragrant basil with a buttery, garlicky base, perfect for a quick, flavorful vegetarian meal or topping.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Melt butter or margarine in a medium, noncorrosive skillet.
- Add minced garlic and chopped tomatoes; cook for 5 minutes, or until tomatoes are softened.
- Add dry white vermouth and cook on high heat until slightly thickened, about 4 minutes.
- Add chicken broth and continue to cook on high heat for 2 minutes longer, or until sauce thickens slightly.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, use unsalted butter and consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes for a hint of heat. If you don't have dry white vermouth, a splash of white wine or even a bit of lemon juice can work as a substitute. Fresh tomatoes are key, but canned tomatoes can be used in a pinch. Pair this sauce with your favorite pasta, like Berardi Pasta, for a delightful meal.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this fresh tomato basil sauce over al dente pasta for a satisfying dish. It pairs wonderfully with grated Parmesan cheese on top and a sprinkle of fresh basil for garnish. Consider a side salad or garlic bread to complement the meal. This sauce also goes well with chicken recipes like Pollo Papale for a heartier option.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, simply warm it on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally. If the sauce thickens too much, add a splash of chicken broth or water to loosen it again. It can also be frozen for up to three months.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Fresh Tomato Basil Pasta Sauce contains roughly 552 calories, with 20g protein, 77g carbohydrates, and 25g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (108% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (87% of the Daily Value), and calcium (55% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 971mg per serving (42% 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 dried basil instead of fresh?
While you can use dried basil in a pinch, fresh basil provides a brighter, more vibrant flavor that enhances the sauce. If using dried, reduce the amount to about 1 tablespoon, as it's more concentrated.
What type of pasta works best with this sauce?
This sauce is versatile and pairs well with various pasta shapes. Spaghetti or penne are great options, but you can also try it with ravioli, such as Ravioli With Vegetables, for a delicious twist.
Can I make this sauce ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the sauce ahead of time. Just allow it to cool completely before storing in the refrigerator. Reheat gently on the stove before serving to enjoy its fresh flavors.
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).