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Tomato Basil Pasta

Tomato Basil Pasta
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Tomato Basil Pasta is a simple, fresh, and flavorful dish combining ripe tomatoes, fragrant basil, and tender pasta with olive oil and garlic. This quick and versatile recipe is perfect for a healthy, comforting meal that can be prepared in under 30 minutes, making it ideal for busy weeknights or relaxed weekends.

Ingredients

Scale

Fresh Produce

  • 2 cups ripe plum or cherry tomatoes, chopped
  • 1 cup fresh basil leaves, torn
  • 2–3 garlic cloves, minced

Pasta

  • 8 ounces pasta of choice (spaghetti, linguine, penne)

Pantry Items

  • 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
  • Salt, to taste
  • Freshly ground black pepper, to taste

Optional

  • 1/4 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Ingredients: Wash the tomatoes and basil leaves thoroughly. Thinly slice or chop the tomatoes, roughly tear the basil leaves to release their aroma, and finely mince the garlic to avoid large garlic chunks.
  2. Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve one cup of the pasta water, then drain the pasta.
  3. Sauté Garlic and Tomatoes: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant but not browned. Add the chopped tomatoes, season with salt and pepper, and cook until they soften and release their juices, forming a light sauce.
  4. Combine Pasta and Sauce: Add the cooked pasta to the skillet with the tomato mixture. Toss gently, adding reserved pasta water as needed to adjust the sauce consistency so it clings to the pasta.
  5. Add Fresh Basil and Serve: Stir in the torn basil leaves immediately, allowing residual heat to wilt them slightly. Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese if desired. Serve hot, garnished with extra basil leaves.

Notes

  • Use high-quality extra virgin olive oil to enhance flavor and mouthfeel.
  • Cook pasta al dente for the best texture and sauce adherence.
  • Reserve some pasta water to create a silky sauce consistency.
  • Add basil at the end to preserve its bright flavor and vibrant color.
  • Season gradually and taste as you go to balance flavors perfectly.

Nutrition

Keywords: Tomato Basil Pasta, easy pasta recipe, fresh tomato pasta, quick Italian dinner, basil pasta, gluten free pasta recipe

Find it online: https://mydishez.com/tomato-basil-pasta/