Creamy Tomato and Basil Pasta: A Burst of Fresh Flavor
Imagine twirling your fork into a bowl of Creamy Tomato and Basil Pasta, where sun-ripened tomatoes meet the fresh, vibrant aroma of basil in a velvety smooth sauce. This is comfort food elevated, a symphony of savory and herbaceous notes that's both satisfying and surprisingly simple to create. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a cozy weekend meal, this dish promises a burst of fresh flavor with every bite. The simplicity of the ingredients belies the depth of flavor achieved – a testament to the power of fresh, high-quality produce and a few simple cooking techniques. It’s the perfect recipe for those evenings when you crave something delicious but don't want to spend hours in the kitchen.
Simple Ingredients, Exquisite Taste
This Creamy Tomato and Basil Pasta is all about showcasing the natural flavors of its ingredients. The base of the sauce is made with high-quality crushed tomatoes, offering a rich, deep flavor that forms the foundation of the dish. The addition of fresh basil adds a bright, herbaceous note that perfectly complements the sweetness of the tomatoes. A touch of heavy cream creates a luxuriously smooth and creamy texture, enveloping the pasta in a comforting hug. The garlic adds a subtle pungency that enhances the overall flavor profile, while a pinch of red pepper flakes provides a hint of warmth. This simple yet elegant approach to flavor building is reminiscent of the herb-infused roasting technique we used in our previous chicken recipe, but here, we achieve a similar depth of flavor using a different culinary approach entirely.
Recipe Details: Creamy Tomato and Basil Pasta
| Prep Time | 10 minutes |
|---|---|
| Cook Time | 20 minutes |
| Servings | 4 |
Ingredients:
- 1 lb pasta (spaghetti, penne, or fusilli)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- ¼ tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
- 28 oz crushed tomatoes
- ½ cup vegetable broth
- ¼ cup heavy cream
- ¼ cup fresh basil, chopped
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus more for serving
- 1 tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
Instructions:
- Boil salted water. Add pasta and cook until al dente. Reserve 1 cup pasta water before draining.
- Heat olive oil in a skillet. Add garlic and red pepper flakes (if using), cook 1 minute.
- Add crushed tomatoes and broth. Simmer 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Stir in cream, basil, and Parmesan. Season with salt and pepper.
- Add pasta to sauce. Toss to coat. Add reserved pasta water if needed.
- Serve immediately, garnished with Parmesan and basil.
Expert Tips & Variations:
- Add butter with the cream for a richer sauce.
- Add sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or roasted red peppers.
Nutritional Information (Approximate, per serving):
500 calories, 20g protein, 70g carbohydrates, 15g fat
Serving Suggestion:
Serve with garlic bread or a simple green salad.
For more delicious and easy recipes, visit Flavor Trail Recipes. This Creamy Tomato and Basil Pasta is a comforting classic, elevated with fresh ingredients and simple techniques. Enjoy!