Indulge in the Comforting Elegance of Creamy Tomato & Basil Pasta
This Creamy Tomato & Basil Pasta with Crispy Prosciutto is the epitome of a Quick Weeknight Meal. This theme aligns perfectly with the goals of a food blog like FlavorTrailRecipes.blogspot.com, which aims to inspire everyday cooks. The recipe offers a dish that’s both satisfying and achievable on a busy weeknight, using accessible ingredients and simple techniques. The combination of creamy tomato sauce, fresh basil, and crispy prosciutto provides an exciting flavor profile without requiring advanced culinary skills. It's the perfect solution for those nights when you crave a delicious, homemade meal without spending hours in the kitchen.
A Symphony of Simple Flavors
This pasta dish is a celebration of fresh, simple flavors. Ripe, juicy tomatoes simmer into a luscious, creamy sauce, their sweetness beautifully balanced by the fragrant basil. The salty crunch of crispy prosciutto adds a delightful textural and flavor contrast, elevating this dish from everyday comfort food to something truly special. Whether it's a weeknight treat for the family or a simple yet impressive meal for guests, this pasta dish is sure to impress.
Recipe: Creamy Tomato & Basil Pasta with Crispy Prosciutto
Prep Time:
15 minutes
Cook Time:
20 minutes
Yields:
4 servings
Ingredients:
- 340g (12 oz) pasta (penne, rigatoni, or fusilli)
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 113g (4 oz) prosciutto, thinly sliced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 794g (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus more for serving
- 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped, plus more for garnish
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package directions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
- While the pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the prosciutto and cook until crispy (3-5 minutes). Remove and set aside on paper towels. Crumble once cooled.
- Add minced garlic to the skillet and sauté for 1 minute, until fragrant. Avoid burning the garlic.
- Pour in crushed tomatoes and red pepper flakes (if using). Simmer for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Stir in heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, and chopped basil. Season with salt and pepper.
- Add the drained pasta to the skillet. Toss to coat. Add reserved pasta water if the sauce is too thick.
- Serve immediately, topped with crumbled prosciutto, extra Parmesan, and fresh basil. #pasta #tomato #basil #prosciutto #creamyPasta #weeknightmeal #quickDinner
Expert Tips & Variations:
- Vegetarian Version: Omit prosciutto; add 1/2 cup chopped sun-dried tomatoes.
- Lighter Sauce: Substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or crème fraîche.
- Extra Flavor: Add a splash of vodka to the sauce after sautéing the garlic.
Nutritional Information (Approximate, per serving):
| Calories | 550-650 |
|---|---|
| Protein | 25-30g |
| Carbohydrates | 60-70g |
| Fat | 25-35g |
Serving Suggestions:
Serve with a simple green salad and a glass of dry white wine, such as Pinot Grigio.
Keywords: pasta, tomato, basil, prosciutto, creamy, weeknight meal, quick, easy, garlic, parmesan, red pepper flakes