Linguini With Tomato, Cream And Basil Sauce
Linguini with a rich tomato, cream, and basil sauce offers a comforting, flavorful meal perfect for pasta lovers and family dinners alike.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add chopped onions and cook until soft and transparent.
- Add minced garlic and cook for 2 minutes.
- Strain the canned tomatoes by rubbing the sides of a strainer with a spoon to release the juice, then add the tomatoes to the skillet.
- Add basil, oregano, and dried parsley to the skillet.
- Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer until some liquid has evaporated, about 10 minutes.
- Cook linguini according to package instructions until al dente.
- Stir heavy cream and butter into the sauce, season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Drain the linguini and toss with the sauce.
- Serve topped with Parmesan cheese.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using homemade or high-quality canned tomatoes. Fresh basil can also enhance the taste, so feel free to substitute dried basil with fresh if available. If you're looking for a lighter option, half-and-half can replace heavy cream. For a bit of heat, add red pepper flakes to the sauce. Pair this dish with a side of garlic bread for a complete meal.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the linguini warm, garnished with freshly grated Parmesan cheese and a sprinkle of fresh basil for added flavor. This dish pairs beautifully with a crisp green salad or steamed vegetables. For a heartier meal, consider serving it alongside roasted chicken or a glass of white wine. Explore more Italian recipes to complement this dish.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover linguini with tomato, cream, and basil sauce can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of cream or water to loosen the sauce. Alternatively, you can microwave it in short intervals, stirring frequently.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Linguini With Tomato, Cream And Basil Sauce contains roughly 1823 calories, with 27g protein, 151g carbohydrates, and 145g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (305% of the Daily Value), iron (222% of the Daily Value), and calcium (154% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin C. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2069mg per serving (90% 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 make this recipe in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the sauce ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Just cook the linguini fresh when you're ready to serve to ensure the pasta remains al dente.
What can I substitute for heavy cream?
If you're looking for a lighter option, you can substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or a plant-based cream alternative. Keep in mind that this may slightly alter the richness of the sauce.
Is there a vegetarian option for this dish?
Absolutely! This dish is inherently vegetarian. Just ensure that the Parmesan cheese is made without animal rennet if you're following a strict vegetarian diet. You can also add vegetables like spinach or mushrooms for extra nutrition.
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).