Homemade Tomato Basil Pasta

Looking for a delicious and easy-to-make pasta dish? Homemade Tomato Basil Pasta is the perfect choice for a weeknight meal or a special dinner party. This richly flavored sauce pairs beautifully with any type of pasta, making it versatile enough to suit your taste buds.

Ingredients

• 1 pound spaghetti or another long pasta shape
• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 (28-ounce) can crushed tomatoes
• 1 cup fresh basil leaves, torn into small pieces
• Salt and pepper to taste
• A handful of Parmesan cheese for garnish

Instructions

Start by boiling a large pot of salted water. Once the water is at a rolling boil, add your pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. While the pasta is cooking, heat up the olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.

Add the minced garlic to the skillet and sauté for about 1 minute or until fragrant but not browned. Do not let the garlic burn; it can quickly turn bitter if overcooked. Once the garlic is ready, pour in the crushed tomatoes and bring everything to a simmer. Let this mixture gently bubble while you finish up the pasta.

When the pasta is cooked through, drain it thoroughly but reserve about 1/2 cup of the pasta water before transferring it back into the pot. This starchy water will help thicken your sauce slightly as you combine it with the pasta. Add the simmering tomato mixture along with some salt and pepper to taste to the drained pasta.

Stir well, ensuring that every strand of pasta is coated in the rich tomato sauce. Taste and add more seasoning if needed. Fresh basil leaves are a key component for this recipe; they bring an essential freshness that elevates the flavors. Add them at the end while stirring gently so you don't bruise the delicate leaves.

Transfer your pasta to serving plates or bowls, garnish with some freshly grated Parmesan cheese if desired, and serve immediately. This dish is best when enjoyed warm right after preparation for the full flavor experience.

Cooking Time & Servings

Cook time: Approximately 15 minutes total (10 minutes for boiling pasta + 5 minutes for sautéed garlic and sauce). Servings: This recipe yields approximately 4 generous servings, depending on portion size.

Additional Tips

1. If you prefer a smoother texture, blend part of the tomatoes in the food processor before adding them to the skillet.
2. For extra creaminess, whisk in a bit of heavy cream or half-and-half towards the end while stirring gently into the pasta. Be careful not to overmix as this will break down the sauce.
3. To make ahead, you can prepare the tomato sauce base and refrigerate it until ready to use. The cooked pasta should be made fresh just before serving.

Homemade Tomato Basil Pasta is a simple yet satisfying dish that requires minimal effort but delivers maximum flavor. Whether you're hosting friends or cooking for yourself on a busy day, this meal ticks all the boxes: easy preparation, delicious taste, and healthy ingredients. Give it a try today and treat your senses to a delightful dining experience!