Simple and Flavorful Tomato Basil Pasta

Tomato basil pasta is a beloved dish that combines the rich flavors of fresh tomatoes with the tangy bite of basil, creating a delightful balance of sweet and savory tastes in every bite. This classic Italian pasta recipe can be enjoyed as a light dinner or served alongside grilled chicken for a complete meal.

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Cooking time: 15 minutes
Servings: 4 people

Ingredients:

8 ounces (about 225 grams) of your favorite pasta shape
3 medium ripe tomatoes, chopped into small pieces
1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
3 tablespoons olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste
Grated Parmesan cheese for topping (optional)

Instructions:

Boil water in a large pot and add salt. Once the water is boiling, carefully place the pasta into the water.
Cook according to package instructions until al dente – this means that the pasta should be firm but not hard. Al dente pasta adds a pleasant texture to your meal. Drain the cooked pasta thoroughly and set it aside.
While the pasta is cooking, heat up olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Sauté the minced garlic until it becomes fragrant – this step will add an extra layer of flavor to your dish.
Add chopped tomatoes and fresh basil into the skillet. Stir gently while allowing them to simmer for about 5 minutes. You can also add a pinch of sugar if you prefer a less acidic taste, which helps to enhance the sweetness in the sauce.
Once the tomatoes are cooked down slightly and have released their juices, pour this mixture over the drained pasta. Toss everything together until well combined so that each piece of pasta is coated with the tomato basil sauce.
If desired, garnish with grated Parmesan cheese for extra flavor and texture. Serve immediately while it’s still warm – enjoy your homemade tomato basil pasta right away!

Tips & Variations:

For a creamier sauce: Add 1/4 cup of heavy cream or half-and-half to the skillet with the tomatoes and garlic. This will make the dish richer.
To add heat: Incorporate a pinch of red pepper flakes into your tomato basil mixture for some extra spice.
Varying pasta shapes: You can use any type of pasta – whether it's spaghetti, fettuccine, or even penne. Experiment with different forms to see which one suits you best!

Nutritional Information:

This dish contains approximately 350 calories per serving based on the given ingredients and preparation methods. The nutritional values may vary depending on specific brands of pasta, olive oil, or other toppings used.

Calories: 350, Fat: 12g, Protein: 14g, Carbohydrates: 60g

Conclusion:

Tomato basil pasta is a simple yet delicious Italian dish that showcases fresh ingredients and traditional flavors. With minimal effort, you can create a tasty meal at home using just a few common ingredients like tomatoes, basil, garlic, and olive oil. Try this easy recipe today to impress your family or friends with a homemade version of this beloved classic.