How to Make a Delicious Tomato Basil Pasta

The keyword for this article is "tomato basil pasta."

Tomato basil pasta is a classic Italian dish that never goes out of style. It's simple yet satisfying, making it perfect for beginners or experienced cooks who want an authentic taste without the fuss.

Cooking Time: Approximately 40 minutes

Number of Servings: 4-6 people

Ingredients:

• 3 pounds (1.3 kg) fresh tomatoes, chopped into small pieces
• 2 cups (250 g) fresh basil leaves
• 8 ounces (225 g) uncooked pasta of your choice (penne, spaghetti, or fusilli)
• 4 tablespoons olive oil
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
• 1 garlic clove, minced (optional)
• Grated Parmesan cheese for serving

Instructions:

To start with the preparation of your tomato basil pasta:

1. Begin by boiling water in a large pot. Fill it halfway to three-quarters full, then add salt and bring it to a boil.
2. Meanwhile, carefully rinse the fresh tomatoes under cold running water to remove any dirt or debris. Afterward, chop them into smaller pieces. It's good practice to keep the skin on but ensure that they are chopped finely so you don't end up with large chunks in your pasta sauce.
3. Mince one garlic clove (optional) and set it aside for when you need to add it later.
4. Next, wash the basil thoroughly under cold running water. Once clean, tear or cut the leaves into smaller pieces by hand; do not use a food processor as this can bruise the leaves, affecting their flavor negatively.
5. In a large skillet over medium heat, warm up 2 tablespoons of olive oil. Add the garlic and sauté until it becomes fragrant but not browned.
6. Pour in your chopped tomatoes, keeping an eye on them as they begin to break down. At this point, you may adjust the consistency by adding more tomato if preferred or a dash of water if needed. Stir gently and let everything simmer for about 15 minutes until the sauce has thickened slightly.
7. While the sauce is cooking, bring your large pot of salted water to a rolling boil again and cook your pasta according to package instructions until al dente – not too soft but still with a little bite. Drain once done, reserving some pasta water for later use if desired.
8. Once your tomato basil sauce reaches the desired thickness, remove it from heat. Stir in freshly chopped basil leaves until well combined; the bright green color will make your dish pop visually and add that extra flavor dimension. Taste test and season with salt and pepper as necessary.
9. Mix the pasta into the hot tomato basil sauce gently using a big spoon or fork to coat each piece evenly without breaking them apart too much.
10. Serve immediately in wide, shallow bowls garnished with extra grated Parmesan cheese if preferred. Serve this comforting meal alongside a side salad for a balanced and satisfying dinner.

Tips:

• For added flavor depth, consider using homemade tomato sauce instead of canned products or even adding sun-dried tomatoes for an extra burst of flavor.
• To make this dish heartier, you could add cooked ground beef or chicken along with the pasta. Alternatively, mix in some ricotta cheese when serving for a more decadent version.
• If you're looking to keep things lighter, omit the Parmesan and use fresh mozzarella instead!

Conclusion:

Tomato basil pasta is not just about combining two beloved ingredients; it's about creating a harmonious balance between flavors that speaks of simplicity yet offers great satisfaction. Whether you're hosting friends over or having an intimate dinner at home, this recipe promises to be a hit every time. With its straightforward preparation and delightful taste, tomato basil pasta stands as one of those dishes that everyone can appreciate.