Are you craving a delicious, healthy, and incredibly easy weeknight dinner? Look no further! This Creamy Tomato & Basil Pasta recipe is a fantastic choice for busy weeknights, satisfying even the pickiest eaters. It's packed with fresh flavors, requires minimal ingredients, and comes together in under 30 minutes. Perfect for those seeking quick dinner ideas and homemade cooking at its finest. Let's dive into this simple yet satisfying dish!
Ingredients:
- 1 pound pasta (penne, rotini, or your favorite shape)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (28-ounce) can crushed tomatoes
- 1 cup heavy cream or coconut cream for a vegan option
- 1/2 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional, omit for vegan)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
Instructions:
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Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package directions until al dente. Reserve about 1/2 cup of pasta water before draining.
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Sauté the Garlic: While the pasta is cooking, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute, or until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic.
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Simmer the Sauce: Add the crushed tomatoes to the skillet and bring to a simmer. Reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully.
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Create the Creamy Sauce: Stir in the heavy cream (or coconut cream) and half of the chopped basil. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Simmer for another 5 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken slightly.
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Combine Pasta and Sauce: Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss to coat it evenly with the creamy tomato sauce. If the sauce is too thick, add a little bit of the reserved pasta water to loosen it up.
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Garnish and Serve: Stir in the remaining basil and Parmesan cheese (if using). Serve immediately, garnished with extra basil leaves if desired.
Tips and Variations:
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce for a little kick.
- Add protein: Cook some Italian sausage or chicken and add it to the sauce for a heartier meal.
- Veggie boost: Include sauteed vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, or zucchini for added nutrients and flavor.
- Fresh herbs: Experiment with other fresh herbs like oregano or thyme.
- Different cheeses: Try using different cheeses like mozzarella or ricotta instead of Parmesan.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 400-500 (depending on ingredients and portion size)
- Protein: 15-20g
- Fat: 20-25g
- Carbohydrates: 50-60g
This creamy tomato and basil pasta recipe is a perfect example of delicious dishes that are also healthy meals. It’s quick, easy, and adaptable to your preferences. Enjoy this satisfying and flavorful pasta dish, a true testament to the best recipes that are both simple and stunning. This easy recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner, or a casual weekend meal. It's sure to become a family favorite!