Tomato Basil Pasta
A vibrant, flavorful tomato basil pasta featuring fresh ingredients and simple preparation, perfect for a quick, satisfying Italian-inspired meal suited for any occasion.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Boil the tomatoes for about 1 minute, then remove the skins and chop them. Place the chopped tomatoes in a bowl.
- Peel and chop 4 or 5 cloves of garlic. Dice the fresh basil. Cook the pasta until al dente.
- Place 1/2 cup of oil in the cooked pasta and stir to coat.
- In a skillet, heat 1/2 cup of oil until hot. Add the chopped tomatoes and garlic, and cook for about 2 minutes.
- Add the diced basil to the sauce, then the cheese. Cook until the cheese is melted.
- Combine the sauce with the cooked pasta. Add 2 teaspoons of butter and stir until melted and well incorporated.
Tips & Substitutions
To enhance flavor, consider using heirloom tomatoes for a richer taste. If you don't have fresh basil, dried basil can be substituted, but use only one-third of the amount as dried herbs are more concentrated. For a creamier sauce, add a splash of heavy cream or a dollop of ricotta cheese. This dish is also great with a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for a bit of heat.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Tomato Basil Pasta garnished with additional fresh basil and grated Parmesan cheese for an extra touch. A side salad with a light vinaigrette pairs beautifully, as does garlic bread for a hearty meal. This dish complements Italian recipes and can be enjoyed as a main course or a side dish.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, add a splash of olive oil or a bit of water to the pasta to prevent it from drying out, and warm it in a skillet over medium heat until heated through. Microwaving is also an option; just cover the dish to retain moisture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Tomato Basil Pasta contains roughly 2313 calories, with 10g protein, 28g carbohydrates, and 245g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (155% of the Daily Value), calcium (54% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (43% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium. It also contributes 12g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
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 pasta dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the sauce in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just cook the pasta fresh before serving to ensure it doesn't become mushy. Combine the two right before serving for the best texture and flavor.
What type of pasta works best for this recipe?
While the recipe calls for any type of pasta, shorter shapes like penne or fusilli work well as they hold the sauce better. You can also use whole wheat or gluten-free pasta for a healthier or dietary-friendly option.
Can I add protein to this dish?
Absolutely! Grilled chicken, shrimp, or sautéed mushrooms can be excellent additions to make the meal heartier. For a vegetarian option, consider adding chickpeas or tofu for added protein while keeping it within vegetarian recipes.
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).