There’s something magical about the melding of fresh tomatoes and fragrant basil in a creamy sauce that takes me right back to my grandmother’s cozy kitchen. I can almost hear her soft hums as she whipped up her signature tomato basil pasta, filling the air with aromas that signaled love and warmth. This dish has been a family favorite for generations, and now I’m thrilled to share it with you. It’s a simple, heartwarming meal that’s perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a quick weeknight dinner or a leisurely weekend feast.
Why You’ll Love This Pasta Dish
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Quick and Easy: Ready in just 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights. The efficiency of this recipe means you can enjoy a wholesome meal without spending hours in the kitchen. It’s great for those nights when you’re short on time but still crave a homemade dish. The streamlined process of using one pan for the sauce and a pot for the pasta minimizes time and effort, allowing you to focus on other evening activities or simply unwind.
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Fresh and Flavorful: The combination of ripe tomatoes and fresh basil creates a delightful burst of flavor. There’s nothing quite like the taste of tomatoes that have been ripened to perfection, blending seamlessly with the aromatic notes of basil. This combination ensures each bite is a celebration of freshness. The natural acidity of the tomatoes balances beautifully with the richness of the cream, while the basil adds a fragrant, peppery touch that elevates the dish.
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Family-Friendly: A comforting meal that both kids and adults will enjoy. The creamy texture and gentle flavors make it a hit among all age groups, and it’s a great way to introduce younger eaters to the joys of fresh herbs and vegetables. Kids often enjoy the mild and creamy sauce, and you can easily adjust the spice level to suit everyone’s palate by controlling the amount of red pepper flakes.
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Versatile: Easily adaptable to suit different dietary needs or ingredient availability. Whether you need to accommodate a gluten-free diet by using alternative pasta or prefer to make it vegetarian by adding more vegetables, this dish can be modified to fit your needs. Consider tossing in some sautéed mushrooms or spinach for a nutritional boost, or use whole wheat or chickpea pasta for added fiber and protein.
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Minimal Cleanup: One-pan cooking means fewer dishes to wash! The simplicity of the cooking process is a bonus on any busy night, ensuring that you spend more time enjoying your meal and less time cleaning up. This is particularly advantageous when entertaining guests, as it allows you to maintain a tidy kitchen while still serving a delicious meal.
The Recipe
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Servings: 4
Calories: Approximately 400 per serving
Ingredients:
- 8 oz. pasta (your choice of shape): Whether you prefer the twirls of fusilli or the classic strands of spaghetti, choose a pasta shape that will hold onto the sauce. Penne or rigatoni are also great options as their hollow centers trap more of the creamy goodness.
- 1 tbsp olive oil: Use extra virgin for the best flavor and health benefits. Its robust flavor complements the tomatoes and basil, adding depth to the dish.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Fresh garlic is key for depth of flavor. You might consider using a garlic press for a finer texture, which helps it blend seamlessly into the sauce.
- 4 cups fresh tomatoes, chopped: Plum or Roma tomatoes work well, but feel free to use any variety you have on hand. For a slightly different flavor profile, heirloom tomatoes offer a sweet and complex taste.
- 1 cup heavy cream: For a lighter option, substitute with half-and-half or a non-dairy alternative like coconut milk, which adds a subtle sweetness.
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Freshly grated is best for maximum flavor. Avoid pre-grated versions that can contain anti-caking agents, which affect melting.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Seasoning is crucial to bring out the best in each ingredient. Consider using freshly ground black pepper for a more pronounced kick.
- 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, torn: Add right before serving to preserve their vibrant flavor. Tearing the leaves rather than cutting them helps prevent bruising, maintaining their aromatic oils.
- Optional: red pepper flakes for a bit of heat: Adjust to your preference for a subtle kick. Start with a pinch and taste as you go to find your desired level of spice.
Instructions:
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Cook the Pasta: Begin by cooking the pasta according to the package instructions. Drain and set aside. This is a good time to reserve a cup of pasta water, which can be used later to adjust the sauce’s consistency if needed. The starch in the pasta water will help bind the sauce to the pasta, enhancing the creaminess.
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Prepare the Sauce: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as it can turn bitter. The key is to watch for the garlic to just start turning golden, then immediately move to the next step.
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Add Tomatoes: Stir in the chopped tomatoes and cook for 5-7 minutes until they start to break down and release their juices. You can use a wooden spoon to gently mash the tomatoes as they cook, enhancing the sauce’s texture. This process helps to release the natural pectin in the tomatoes, which thickens the sauce.
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Creamy Goodness: Lower the heat and add the heavy cream, stirring to combine. Let it simmer for a couple of minutes. At this stage, the sauce should begin to thicken slightly and have a luscious consistency. Stir continuously to prevent the cream from curdling.
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Cheesy Delight: Stir in the Parmesan cheese until melted and the sauce is creamy. Season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes if using. Taste and adjust seasoning as necessary, keeping in mind that Parmesan can be quite salty. The cheese not only enhances the flavor but also helps thicken the sauce further.
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Combine: Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss everything together until the pasta is well-coated with the sauce. If the sauce seems too thick, add a bit of the reserved pasta water to achieve your desired consistency. This step ensures that every piece of pasta is enveloped in the creamy sauce.
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Finish with Basil: Just before serving, sprinkle the fresh basil over the pasta for a burst of herby freshness. The basil should be added at the last minute to maintain its bright flavor and color, which adds a fresh, vibrant finish to the dish.
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Serve: Dish up your creamy tomato basil pasta and enjoy! For a final touch, you might want to add a sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan cheese on top. A drizzle of high-quality olive oil or a few shavings of lemon zest can also enhance the presentation and add another layer of flavor.
Kitchen Tools You’ll Need
- Large Pot: For boiling the pasta. A wide pot allows the pasta to move freely, cooking evenly. This prevents the pasta from sticking together, ensuring even cooking.
- Large Skillet: Essential for making the sauce. A non-stick skillet can make the cleanup even easier. The wide base allows for even cooking and easy tossing of the pasta with the sauce.
- Colander: To drain the pasta. A colander with small holes will ensure that no pasta slips through. Ensuring excess water is drained will help the sauce adhere better to the pasta.
- Wooden Spoon: For stirring the sauce. A wooden spoon is gentle on your cookware and ideal for stirring sauces. It won’t scratch your pans and is perfect for breaking down tomatoes.
The Benefits of Each Ingredient
- Fresh Tomatoes: Packed with vitamins A and C, they add natural sweetness and acidity. They also contain lycopene, a powerful antioxidant linked to many health benefits, including reduced risk of heart disease and cancer.
- Basil: Offers a fragrant, peppery flavor and is rich in antioxidants. It’s also known for its anti-inflammatory properties and ability to aid digestion. Basil contains essential oils that are beneficial for maintaining skin health.
- Garlic: Enhances flavor while providing health benefits like improved heart health. It’s also known for its immune-boosting properties. Garlic has been used for centuries in traditional medicine and is known for its antibacterial qualities.
- Olive Oil: A heart-healthy fat that adds richness to the sauce. It’s also high in antioxidants and beneficial fatty acids. Olive oil is associated with reduced inflammation and a lower risk of chronic diseases.
- Parmesan Cheese: Adds a nutty, salty depth to the dish. It’s also a good source of calcium and protein. Parmesan is a hard, aged cheese that is easier to digest for those who are lactose intolerant.
- Heavy Cream: Provides a luscious texture that brings everything together. For those looking to reduce fat intake, you can experiment with lighter alternatives like Greek yogurt, which also adds a tangy flavor.
What to Serve With This Pasta Dish
This creamy tomato basil pasta pairs beautifully with a simple green salad dressed in a light vinaigrette. The crispness of the greens contrasts nicely with the creamy pasta. For a heartier meal, serve it alongside grilled chicken seasoned with herbs and lemon or garlic bread toasted to perfection. You might also enjoy it with a glass of chilled white wine, such as a Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio, which complements the pasta’s freshness, or sparkling water with lemon for a non-alcoholic option.
If you’re looking to expand the meal, consider adding roasted vegetables such as zucchini or bell peppers, which add a pop of color and a variety of textures. For a touch of indulgence, a classic Caprese salad with mozzarella, tomatoes, and balsamic glaze can be a delightful starter.
For more pasta inspirations, check out our Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta and Classic Spaghetti Carbonara. Each offers a unique twist and invites you to explore different flavors and techniques in pasta cooking.
Storage & Leftover Tips
Should you have any leftovers (though I doubt you will!), store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of milk or cream to revive the sauce’s creaminess. Avoid microwaving, as it may cause the sauce to separate and lose its silky texture. If you plan to make this dish in advance, consider cooking the pasta slightly under al dente to prevent it from becoming too soft after reheating.
This creamy tomato basil pasta is a delightful dish that wraps you in warmth and comfort, much like a cherished memory. I hope it becomes a beloved staple in your home, just as it is in mine. Happy cooking!
Air Fryer Tuna Steak
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C).
- Pat the tuna steaks dry with paper towels.
- In a small bowl, mix together olive oil, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
- Brush the mixture evenly over both sides of the tuna steaks.
- Place the tuna steaks in the air fryer basket, ensuring they are not overlapping.
- Cook for 6-8 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the internal temperature reaches 130°F for medium-rare.
- Remove the tuna steaks from the air fryer and let them rest for a couple of minutes.
- Serve with lemon wedges.