Creamy Tomato and Basil Pasta: A Quick & Easy Weeknight Delight
Imagine twirling your fork through a bowl of Creamy Tomato and Basil Pasta, where sun-ripened tomatoes meet fragrant basil in a velvety smooth sauce. This comforting dish offers a delightful balance of sweet and savory flavors, perfect for a satisfying and surprisingly simple weeknight meal. Its creamy texture and vibrant freshness make it an instant crowd-pleaser, guaranteed to bring a touch of Italian sunshine to your table. This vegetarian pasta dish is a testament to how simple ingredients can create culinary magic. #CreamyTomatoPasta #BasilPasta #VegetarianRecipe
Theme & Justification: Vegetarian Comfort Food
This recipe provides a comforting and satisfying vegetarian option that is quick to prepare and utilizes simple, readily available ingredients. It aligns with your website's goal of offering approachable yet exciting dishes, as it elevates a classic pasta dish with fresh basil and a creamy tomato sauce. It caters to those seeking meat-free alternatives without compromising on flavor or ease of preparation. Enjoying a delicious, meat-free meal has never been easier! #VegetarianPasta #ComfortFood
Brief Introduction:
This creamy tomato and basil pasta is a simple yet elegant dish, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner. The combination of rich tomato sauce, fresh basil, and a touch of cream creates a comforting and flavorful meal. It's the kind of dish that feels indulgent but is surprisingly easy to whip up after a long day. #quick pasta recipe #weeknight dinner
Quick Facts:
| Prep Time: | 10 minutes |
|---|---|
| Cook Time: | 20 minutes |
| Servings: | 4 servings |
Ingredients:
- 1 lb pasta (such as spaghetti, penne, or rigatoni)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional – adds a lovely warmth!)
- 28 oz crushed tomatoes (look for good quality!)
- 1/2 cup heavy cream (for that luscious creaminess)
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus more for serving
- 1/2 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped, plus more for garnish
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Boil the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package directions until al dente. Before draining, remember to reserve about 1 cup of that starchy pasta water – it's liquid gold for perfecting your sauce!
- Sauté Aromatics: While the pasta is cooking, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes (if using). Cook for about 1 minute until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic!
- Simmer the Sauce: Pour in the crushed tomatoes. Bring the sauce to a simmer and let it cook for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally. This allows the flavors to meld and the sauce to thicken slightly.
- Make it Creamy: Stir in the heavy cream and grated Parmesan cheese. Continue to stir until the cheese is melted and the sauce is smooth and creamy. Season generously with salt and black pepper to your liking.
- Combine and Toss: Add the drained pasta directly to the skillet with the sauce. Toss everything together until the pasta is well coated. If the sauce seems a bit too thick, add a splash of the reserved pasta water, a tablespoon at a time, until you reach your desired consistency.
- Add Freshness: Stir in the chopped fresh basil. The heat from the pasta and sauce will release its wonderful aroma.
- Serve: Serve immediately. Garnish with extra Parmesan cheese and fresh basil leaves for a beautiful and flavorful finish.
Expert Tips & Variations:
- Add Protein: For a heartier meal, toss in some grilled chicken, sautéed shrimp, or crumbled Italian sausage. This transforms the dish into a complete protein powerhouse.
- Vegetable Boost: Add a handful of fresh spinach to wilt into the sauce at the very end, or stir in some sautéed mushrooms, zucchini, or bell peppers for added nutrients and texture.
- Spice Level: Adjust the red pepper flakes to control the heat. For a milder dish, omit them entirely.
- Vegan Option: Substitute the heavy cream with full-fat coconut milk or a cashew cream, and use nutritional yeast or a vegan Parmesan alternative.
Nutritional Estimate (Per Serving):
| Calories: | Approximately 500-600 |
|---|---|
| Protein: | 20-25g |
| Carbohydrates: | 70-80g |
| Fat: | 20-25g |
Serving Suggestion:
Serve this delightful creamy tomato and basil pasta with a side of warm garlic bread for soaking up any extra sauce and a crisp green salad to balance the richness. It’s a complete meal that’s as satisfying as it is easy. #PastaNight #HomeCooking #ItalianFood
This creamy tomato and basil pasta is more than just a meal; it's an experience! It’s a reminder that delicious, comforting food doesn't need to be complicated. For more easy and flavorful recipes, including other fantastic vegetarian pasta dishes, explore Flavour Trail Recipes. We’d love to hear about your experience making this dish in the comments below!