Tomato Basil Linguine
A vibrant and creamy tomato basil linguine that combines fresh tomatoes, fragrant basil, and melted cheese for a comforting yet elegant dish. Perfect for summer dinners or casual gatherings, its bold flavors and simple preparation make it a crowd-pleaser for pasta lovers and cheese enthusiasts alike.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a large serving bowl, combine the Brie or Camembert cheese, chopped tomatoes, chopped fresh basil, olive or vegetable oil, minced garlic, salt, and white pepper. Let stand at room temperature for up to 1 1/2 hours.
- Cook linguine according to package directions; drain.
- Toss the cooked linguine with the cheese mixture.
- Sprinkle with shredded Parmesan cheese.
- Serve immediately.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier sauce, consider adding a splash of heavy cream or a dollop of mascarpone cheese. If Brie or Camembert isn't available, you can use cream cheese or goat cheese for a different flavor. Fresh tomatoes can be substituted with canned tomatoes if out of season. Enhance the dish by adding crushed red pepper for some heat or incorporating sautéed vegetables for added nutrition.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Tomato Basil Linguine with a side of garlic bread or a crisp green salad to balance the richness of the cheese. A light white wine like Pinot Grigio pairs beautifully with this dish. For added protein, grilled chicken or shrimp can be mixed in. This dish also complements other Italian recipes, making it a versatile choice for any Italian-themed dinner.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of water or olive oil to maintain moisture. Avoid microwaving as it can alter the texture of the cheese and pasta. This dish is best enjoyed fresh, so consider making smaller batches.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Tomato Basil Linguine contains roughly 970 calories, with 72g protein, 135g carbohydrates, and 33g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (264% of the Daily Value), iron (222% of the Daily Value), and calcium (154% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1786mg 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 make this dish ahead of time?
While the dish is best enjoyed fresh, you can prep the cheese and tomato mixture in advance and store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours. Cook the linguine just before serving to ensure the pasta remains al dente and absorbs the flavors of the sauce.
What can I substitute for linguine?
If you don’t have linguine, fettuccine or even spaghetti can work well in this recipe. For a gluten-free option, try using gluten-free pasta or zucchini noodles, which will also add a fresh twist to the dish while keeping it within vegetarian recipes.
Can I use dried herbs instead of fresh basil?
While fresh basil provides the best flavor, you can substitute with dried basil in a pinch. Use about one-third of the amount since dried herbs are more concentrated. However, for the best taste and aroma, fresh herbs are always recommended, especially in a simple dish like this.
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).