How to Make Creamy Tomato Basil Pasta

This rich and creamy tomato basil pasta is a crowd-pleaser that’s perfect for any occasion! The combination of tender linguine tossed in a tangy tomato sauce with fresh basil and cream creates an elegant yet simple dish. It's a meal that will satisfy both your taste buds and your family. This recipe serves four people, and it can be prepared in approximately 30 minutes.

For those who are looking for something different from the usual pasta dishes, this creamy tomato basil pasta offers a delightful twist! The sauce is made with fresh tomatoes, which not only add flavor but also provide a rich, deep red color. The creaminess comes from heavy whipping cream and a hint of Parmesan cheese, giving you a smooth and velvety texture in every bite.

Ingredients

• 1 lb linguine pasta (or your preferred type)
• 3 large ripe tomatoes
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1/4 cup heavy whipping cream
• 1/2 cup fresh basil, chopped (about 6-8 cups)
• 1/2 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
• Pinch of sugar (optional - helps balance the acidity of tomatoes)
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese, grated (optional but highly recommended for extra flavor)
• Parmesan rind (for depth in flavor; optional)
• Lemon juice (optional - adds freshness and a touch of citrus)

Cooking Instructions

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to package directions until al dente.
2. In the meantime, prepare your sauce base by blending the tomatoes with garlic in a blender or food processor until smooth (a few chunks are also acceptable for texture). You may add a pinch of sugar if the tomatoes seem too acidic.
3. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the tomato mixture and let it simmer, stirring occasionally, for about 5 minutes to reduce slightly and intensify the flavors. Stir in heavy whipping cream, basil, salt, pepper, and optional Parmesan rind or lemon juice.
4. Once the pasta is cooked to your liking, drain well but reserve some of the pasta water. Toss the linguine into the sauce and mix thoroughly until all strands are covered.
5. If necessary, add a splash of reserved pasta water to help blend the creaminess and prevent it from becoming too thick or separating.
6. Transfer the pasta to serving plates, garnish with extra Parmesan cheese and freshly chopped basil. Serve immediately while still hot for best results.

Tips & Variations

If you want a richer flavor profile, consider adding some sun-dried tomatoes or capers when blending your sauce base. Adding a few slices of pancetta or prosciutto also enhances the dish with salty notes that complement the creaminess and acidity.

• For a vegetarian version: Omit the meat products entirely, focusing on fresh herbs like oregano and thyme for additional depth. The basil itself is more than enough to provide robust flavoring without any extra ingredients.
• To make it spicy: Add a few crushed red peppers or chili flakes while cooking the tomato mixture in the skillet. This will give your creamy pasta dish an exciting kick that pairs beautifully with its creamy and tangy components.

Nutritional Information (approximate per serving)

This is just an estimate, as individual ingredients may vary slightly based on brand or type:

• Calories: 450 kcal
• Total Fat: 18g
• Saturated Fat: 6g
• Cholesterol: 27mg
• Sodium: 300mg
• Total Carbohydrates: 59g
• Fiber: 4g
• Sugar: 11g
• Protein: 12g

Conclusion

Creamy tomato basil pasta is a versatile and delicious dish that can easily be tailored to suit individual tastes. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a meal that’s as comforting as it is sophisticated. Try this recipe for an easy yet impressive dinner at home!

Enjoy your cooking experience and the delightful flavors of this creamy tomato basil pasta!