Homemade Tomato Basil Pasta Recipe

Cooking a delicious homemade pasta dish is an enjoyable way to spend your leisure time and impress family or friends with a memorable meal. In this article, we will explore a simple yet delightful recipe for tomato basil pasta that you can make at home.

The key ingredient in this recipe is tomatoes. Tomatoes are not only rich in flavor but also packed with health benefits such as vitamin C, lycopene (an antioxidant), and fiber. They play a crucial role in the dish’s taste and aroma. This article will guide you through making this classic pasta dish using simple steps.

Ingredients

• 250 grams of fresh pasta or dried whole wheat pasta
• 4 medium tomatoes, chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 small onion, finely sliced
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1/4 cup basil leaves, roughly chopped
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Grated Parmesan cheese for garnish (optional)
• Boiling water as needed

Preparation Steps

To prepare this delightful dish, start by cooking the pasta according to package instructions. Make sure to boil it in plenty of salted water until it reaches an al dente stage and then drain well.

In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sliced onions. Stir occasionally until they become translucent. This should take around 3-4 minutes.

Add chopped tomatoes to the skillet and season with salt and pepper. Allow the mixture to simmer gently for about 10 minutes or until the tomato sauce has thickened slightly. The heat of the dish will vary depending on your preference, but you can adjust it according to your taste by cooking longer or shorter.

Mix the cooked pasta into the simmering tomato basil sauce and toss well to combine evenly. Let everything warm up for a few minutes until the flavors meld together.

Transfer the dish to a serving plate and garnish with freshly chopped basil leaves and grated Parmesan cheese if desired. Serve immediately while it is still hot, so you can enjoy its full flavor at its peak freshness.

Cooking Time and Servings

This pasta dish requires approximately 30 minutes of active cooking time, including preparation and serving the meal. The cooking time for your pasta will depend on whether you’re using fresh or dried pasta, but it typically takes around 8-12 minutes to cook al dente.

The number of servings depends on how much pasta you make; however, this recipe easily serves about four people as a main course. You can adjust the portion sizes based on your needs and appetite.

Tips for Success

1. Use fresh ingredients: Whenever possible, use fresh tomatoes, basil leaves, and whole wheat pasta instead of their processed alternatives. This will ensure that each ingredient contributes to a more authentic flavor profile.
2. Salt your water: Salting the boiling water for cooking the pasta is crucial as it enhances its taste significantly.
3. Simmer carefully: Letting the tomato sauce simmer gently allows all flavors to develop and blend harmoniously. It also thickens the sauce, which is essential for a richer dish.

Variations and Modifications

You can customize this pasta recipe in numerous ways based on personal preference or dietary needs:

• Add more vegetables: Include additional ingredients like bell peppers, zucchini, or mushrooms to create a more substantial meal.
• Use different herbs: Try using other fresh herbs such as parsley, oregano, or thyme for unique flavor combinations.
• Different types of pasta: Experiment with various shapes and textures like farfalle (bow-tie) or fusilli.

This homemade tomato basil pasta recipe is a versatile and delicious dish that can be enjoyed by all ages. Whether you're looking for a simple weeknight meal or want to impress guests, this classic pasta will not disappoint. Its straightforward preparation process makes it accessible even to beginners in the kitchen. Try making this comforting and flavorful dish today and enjoy its delightful taste along with your loved ones!