Quick & Easy Tomato Basil Pasta

Tomato Basil Pasta is a classic recipe that has captured hearts for generations due to its simplicity and versatility. This dish can be enjoyed as a light meal or paired with grilled chicken or a salad on the side for a more substantial option. The combination of fresh tomatoes, aromatic basil, and al dente pasta makes this an easy go-to recipe.

Preparation time: 20 minutes

Servings: 4 people

Ingredients

• 1 pound (450g) of your favorite pasta type, such as spaghetti or linguine
• 4 tablespoons (60ml) of olive oil
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 can (28 oz/794g) of crushed tomatoes
• 1 bunch fresh basil, roughly chopped
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Grated Parmesan cheese for garnishing (optional)

Instructions

Step 1: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta once done but save about half a cup (120ml) of the cooking water.

Step 2: While the pasta is boiling, heat up olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Sauté the minced garlic until it becomes fragrant and slightly golden, about one minute.

Step 3: Add the crushed tomatoes to the skillet with the garlic and bring to a simmer. Let this mixture cook for at least five minutes to allow all flavors to meld together nicely.

Step 4: Once the pasta is cooked, add it directly into the tomato sauce. Stir well so that each strand of pasta gets coated evenly. If needed, use some of the reserved pasta water to thin out the sauce slightly for a creamier consistency if preferred.

Step 5: Add chopped fresh basil along with salt and pepper to taste. Toss everything together until thoroughly combined. Garnish with grated Parmesan cheese, if desired.

Nutritional Information

(Note: The nutritional values can vary depending on specific pasta brands used; however, here is a rough estimate based on serving size.)

• Calories per serving: Approximately 400 kcal
• Fat content: About 15g of total fat, including around 2.5g saturated fats.
• Total carbohydrates: Around 65g (including fiber)
• Protein: Approximately 18g

Tips for Success

1. To prevent pasta from sticking together after cooking, toss it with a bit of olive oil before draining.
2. If you find the sauce too dry or thick, adding some more crushed tomatoes can help achieve that perfect consistency.
3. For extra flavor, consider adding cherry tomatoes right at the end when tossing in the cooked pasta. They add color and texture without altering the taste significantly.

Variations & Substitutions

This base recipe leaves room for creativity! Here are some ideas to make Tomato Basil Pasta even more exciting:

• Meatballs: Add Italian meatballs (saffron balls) made from ground beef, pork, or turkey into the sauce during the last few minutes of cooking. These will absorb all the delicious flavors and become tender.
• Vegetables: Feel free to include any seasonal vegetables you like such as bell peppers, zucchini slices, or spinach leaves right before serving for an extra burst of flavor and nutrition.
• Cheeses: Besides Parmesan, other melting cheeses can be used like mozzarella or even feta cheese if desired. Just ensure they are added towards the end so they don't overcook and become rubbery.

Storage & Serving Suggestions

This dish tastes best when served hot but leftovers keep well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. For reheat, simply place it back in your skillet with a splash of water or milk if needed and heat gently until warmed through without boiling.

Enjoy your homemade Tomato Basil Pasta! Whether you're looking for something quick during busy weeknights or want to impress guests at dinner parties, this versatile recipe delivers satisfaction every time. Experimenting with different additions can turn each meal into a delightful adventure in taste exploration.