How to Make a Delicious Creamy Tomato Basil Pasta

The creamy tomato basil pasta is one of those dishes that can cater to all kinds of palates. Its rich and satisfying flavor profile makes it a perfect meal for any day, be it lunch or dinner. The creamy texture, the fresh taste of tomatoes, and the robust aroma of freshly chopped basil make this dish a joy to both the eyes and the palate.

For those of you who want to give your family a homemade meal that’s anything but ordinary, here is a simple yet sumptuous recipe for a Creamy Tomato Basil Pasta. This creamy tomato basil pasta has a cooking time of about 30 minutes and serves four people comfortably. Let's get started.

Ingredients

• 1 lb (450g) of spaghetti or any pasta shape you prefer
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 onion, sliced
• 4 ripe tomatoes, roughly chopped
• ½ cup heavy cream
• 3 tablespoons fresh basil leaves
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
• Pinch of red pepper flakes for some heat

Instructions

Step 1: Start by boiling your pasta in plenty of salted water according to the package instructions. Once it’s done, reserve about one cup of the cooking water and then drain the pasta well.

Step 2: In a large skillet over medium heat, add olive oil. Sauté the garlic and onion until they are translucent but not browned.

Step 3: Add chopped tomatoes to the skillet along with red pepper flakes, if desired, and stir well. Let this mixture simmer for about 5-7 minutes or until it thickens slightly.

Step 4: Once your tomato sauce has thickened a bit, turn off heat and add heavy cream, fresh basil leaves, salt, and pepper to taste. Stir thoroughly so all the ingredients combine well.

Step 5: Now it’s time to incorporate the pasta into this delicious sauce. Add the reserved pasta water slowly as you mix everything together ensuring that no dry pasta is left behind – this will help thicken your sauce further and make sure every noodle gets covered in creamy goodness.

Step 6: Taste your dish, adjusting seasoning if needed. If desired, sprinkle some grated Parmesan cheese over the top before serving for an extra burst of flavor.

Why This Recipe is Special

The combination of simplicity and sophistication in this recipe sets it apart from other pasta dishes. It uses basic ingredients but executes them beautifully to create something truly memorable. The richness provided by heavy cream combined with the freshness brought about by basil creates an unforgettable taste.

Tips for Beginners

• When adding the pasta back into the sauce, ensure each piece is fully coated to avoid any dry spots.
• For those who love a bit more heat, don't hesitate to add extra red pepper flakes. They can bring an exciting dimension of flavor without overpowering everything else in the dish.
• If you're not a fan of heavy cream and want something lighter yet just as creamy, you could substitute it with half-and-half or even low-fat milk. The choice is yours!

Nutritional Information Per Serving

Calories: Approximately 450 kcal (This value may vary depending on portion size and specific ingredients used)

• Protein: About 18 grams
• Carbohydrates: Around 75 grams
• Fat: Roughly 22 grams

This Creamy Tomato Basil Pasta is not only a treat for the taste buds but also incredibly easy to prepare. With its versatile ingredients, it's suitable for various dietary preferences including vegetarian or dairy-free diets when appropriate substitutes are made.