Why Tomato Basil Pasta is a great idea
Tomato Basil Pasta is a classic Italian dish that is loved by everyone. This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights as it is quick, easy and requires only a few ingredients. The tangy tomato sauce with fragrant basil and al dente spaghetti is a match made in heaven. It’s a great way to use up canned tomatoes and fresh herbs from your garden. This recipe is also vegetarian and can be easily made vegan by skipping the Parmesan cheese.
Ingredients
Here are the ingredients you’ll need for this recipe:
- 350g spaghetti
- 3 tbsp olive oil
- 1 onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 800g canned tomatoes
- 1 tsp sugar
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
- Parmesan cheese for serving
Instructions
- Cook the spaghetti according to package instructions. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water and drain the rest.
- In a large pan, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add chopped onion and sauté for 5 minutes until softened. Add minced garlic and cook for another minute.
- Add canned tomatoes, sugar, salt and black pepper. Stir well and let the sauce simmer for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Add chopped basil leaves and reserved pasta water to the sauce. Stir well and let it cook for another 2-3 minutes.
- Add cooked spaghetti to the sauce and toss well to coat. Serve hot with grated Parmesan cheese on top.
Variations
- Add protein: You can add protein to this dish by adding cooked chicken, shrimp or sausage to the sauce.
- Make it spicy: If you like some heat, add red pepper flakes or chili powder to the sauce.
- Add vegetables: You can add vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers or mushrooms to the sauce to make it more nutritious.
- Use different pasta: You can use any pasta shape you like such as penne, fusilli, or linguine.
Conclusion
Tomato Basil Pasta is a simple and delicious recipe that you can make in under 30 minutes. It’s a crowd-pleaser and perfect for any occasion. You can customize this recipe to your liking by adding protein or vegetables. This recipe is a great way to use up pantry staples and fresh herbs. Serve it with a glass of your favorite wine and enjoy a taste of Italy at home.
FAQ
Can I use dried basil instead of fresh basil in Tomato Basil Pasta?
Yes, you can use dried basil instead of fresh basil. However, the flavor won’t be as strong as using fresh basil. So, we recommend using fresh basil.
How do I prevent the garlic from burning in Tomato Basil Pasta?
To prevent the garlic from burning, you can cook it on low heat and stir it constantly until it becomes fragrant. Another option is to add the garlic later in the recipe after the tomatoes have been cooked.
Can I add meat to Tomato Basil Pasta?
Yes, you can add meat to this recipe. Cook the meat first and set it aside. Then, add it back to the recipe when you add the tomatoes.
How long does Tomato Basil Pasta last in the fridge?
Tomato Basil Pasta can last up to 4 days in the fridge if stored in an airtight container.
Can I add cheese to Tomato Basil Pasta?
Yes, you can add cheese to Tomato Basil Pasta. Parmesan cheese is a great option to sprinkle on top of the pasta before serving.
Can I use other types of pasta for Tomato Basil Pasta?
Yes, you can use other types of pasta for this recipe. Penne, linguine, and spaghetti are great options.
Can I omit the red pepper flakes in Tomato Basil Pasta?
Yes, you can omit the red pepper flakes if you don’t like spicy food. However, it adds a nice kick of flavor to the dish.
Can I use canned diced tomatoes instead of whole canned tomatoes?
Yes, you can use canned diced tomatoes instead of whole canned tomatoes. They will be easier to incorporate into the sauce.
Can I make Tomato Basil Pasta vegan?
Yes, you can make Tomato Basil Pasta vegan by omitting the cheese or using a vegan cheese alternative.
Can I use cherry tomatoes instead of whole canned tomatoes?
Yes, you can use cherry tomatoes instead of whole canned tomatoes. However, you will need to adjust the cooking time since cherry tomatoes cook faster than whole canned tomatoes.
