Perfect Pasta with Fresh Tomatoes and Herbs

Keyword: pasta with fresh tomatoes and herbs

Pasta dishes are timeless classics that everyone enjoys, especially when the ingredients are fresh and flavorful! Today’s recipe focuses on a simple yet delicious dish – pasta with fresh tomatoes and herbs. This meal is quick to prepare, affordable, and packed with essential nutrients. You can enjoy this hearty dish as a main course or pair it with a side salad for a complete and satisfying meal.

Ingredients required are basic pantry items that most households have on hand. For one serving, you will need:

1. 200 grams of pasta
2. 3 ripe tomatoes
3. 5-6 fresh basil leaves (or any herb like parsley or oregano)
4. 1 small onion (optional for a sweeter flavor)
5. A clove of garlic, minced
6. Salt to taste
7. Parmesan cheese (optional)
8. Extra virgin olive oil

Cooking Time: Approximately 25 minutes
Number of Servings: 4 servings

Steps to Prepare Pasta with Fresh Tomatoes and Herbs

Begin by cooking your pasta. Bring a large pot of water to a boil, add salt, and then toss in the pasta. Stir occasionally until it reaches the desired al dente texture. This typically takes about 10-12 minutes; however, always check the packaging for exact cooking times as different brands can vary slightly.

While your pasta cooks, prepare the sauce. In a pan over medium heat, add olive oil and let it warm up. If using fresh onions, slice them thinly and sauté until they are soft but not browned. Adding garlic at this stage helps to infuse the dish with its signature flavor.

Once the onion is slightly caramelized, add the tomatoes to your pan. Crush the tomatoes gently or cut them into small pieces if you prefer a smooth sauce. If you like more texture in your pasta sauce, leave some larger pieces of tomato for added bite and flavor complexity. Season with salt according to taste.

After the tomatoes are simmering and beginning to break down, add fresh herbs such as basil, oregano, or parsley depending on what's available. These will enhance the depth of flavor in your dish while also providing vibrant color and aroma. Stir frequently until all elements combine harmoniously.

When the pasta has reached its optimal al dente state, reserve about a cup of the pasta water before draining it thoroughly. Adding this starchy water can help thicken the sauce slightly, making the pasta cling better to the flavors.

Mix the cooked pasta with your homemade tomato and herb sauce. If desired, add freshly grated Parmesan cheese for extra richness and depth. Taste again for seasoning adjustments if needed before serving immediately while still piping hot!

Why Choose This Recipe?

• Healthy Option: Ripe tomatoes are rich in lycopene which promotes heart health.
• Economical: Utilizing simple, affordable ingredients ensures you won’t break the bank while satisfying your hunger cravings.
• Easy Preparation: With minimal steps involved and no fancy equipment needed, this dish suits both beginners and experienced cooks alike.
• Customizable: Feel free to experiment by adding different herbs or substituting vegetables like zucchini or bell peppers for variety each time you make it.

This pasta with fresh tomatoes and herbs is a versatile dish that can be enjoyed in various ways. It pairs wonderfully well with a crisp green salad, especially when dressed lightly with lemon juice and olive oil, enhancing the freshness of both dishes together. Alternatively, if you prefer something heartier, consider serving it alongside grilled chicken or fish for an extra protein boost.

In conclusion, pasta with fresh tomatoes and herbs is not only delicious but also beneficial to your health due to its abundance of vitamins and minerals derived from wholesome ingredients. Its preparation requires minimal effort yet yields delightful results every time. Whether you're hosting a casual dinner party or simply treating yourself to something special at home, this dish deserves a spot on your menu!