Quick Tomato Basil Pasta Recipe in 20 Minutes

Are you looking for a delicious yet quick meal that can be on the table in just 20 minutes? Look no further than this tasty Tomato Basil Pasta recipe! Perfectly cooked pasta combined with fresh tomatoes and aromatic basil creates a delightful dish that’s both satisfying and comforting. Whether you’re an experienced chef or just starting out, this creamy tomato basil pasta is easy to whip up for a weeknight dinner or a cozy weekend meal.

Ingredients & Kitchen Tools

– Ingredients:
– 8 oz (225g) spaghetti or your pasta of choice
– 2 cups cherry tomatoes (halved)
– 3 tablespoons olive oil
– 4 cloves garlic (minced)
– 1 cup heavy cream (for creamy version)
– 1 cup fresh basil leaves (chopped)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese for serving (optional)

– Kitchen Tools:
– Large pot for boiling pasta
– Large skillet or pan
– Colander
– Wooden spoon or spatula
– Measuring cups and spoons

Prep & Cook Time

– Prep Time: 5 minutes
– Cook Time: 15 minutes
– Total Time: 20 minutes

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Boil Pasta: Fill a large pot with water, add a pinch of salt, and bring it to a boil. Add the spaghetti and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve ½ cup of pasta water before draining.

2. Sauté the Tomatoes: While the pasta is cooking, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds, or until fragrant.

3. Add Cherry Tomatoes: Toss the halved cherry tomatoes into the skillet and cook for 4-5 minutes until they soften and start to burst, creating a delicious sauce.

4. Add Cream (Optional): If you’re making creamy tomato basil pasta, pour in the heavy cream and stir well. Let this simmer for a few minutes until it thickens slightly.

5. Combine with Pasta: Once the pasta is ready, add it to the skillet. Pour in the reserved pasta water gradually until you achieve your desired sauce consistency. Stir well to coat the pasta.

6. Add Fresh Basil: Remove the skillet from heat and fold in the chopped basil. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

7. Serve: Divide the pasta into bowls and sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese if desired. Enjoy your delicious Tomato Basil Pasta!

Nutritional Benefits or Advantages

This Tomato Basil Pasta is not only quick to make but also packed with nutrients. Tomatoes are rich in antioxidants like lycopene, helping to reduce inflammation. Basil is known for its anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties, while olive oil provides healthy fats. Adding cream increases the richness and provides some calcium for your diet.

Tips, Variations, or Substitutions

– Add Protein: For a heartier meal, consider adding grilled chicken, shrimp, or even chickpeas.
– Vegetable Add-ins: Feel free to toss in spinach, arugula, or zucchini for added nutrients.
– Herbs: Experiment with different herbs like parsley or oregano for variation.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

– Overcooking Pasta: Make sure to cook the pasta al dente; it will continue to cook when added to the skillet.
– Not Reserving Pasta Water: This starchy water helps thicken the sauce and helps it stick to the pasta.
– Skipping Fresh Basil: Dried basil does not offer the same flavor punch as fresh basil, so always opt for fresh if possible.

Storage and Reheating Tips

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water or cream to revive the sauce.

Conclusion

This quick and easy Tomato Basil Pasta recipe checks all the boxes for a delicious meal. Enjoy its fresh flavors and delightful comfort any night of the week. Whether you go for the creamy version or keep it light, you’ll find yourself coming back to this recipe again and again. Don’t forget to share your experience in the comments below!

FAQs

1. Can I use canned tomatoes instead of fresh?
Yes, canned tomatoes can work well; just adjust the cooking time to allow them to cook down.

2. Is there a vegan version of this pasta?
Absolutely! Use coconut cream or cashew cream in place of heavy cream and skip the cheese or use a vegan cheese alternative.

3. Can I make this pasta ahead of time?
While it’s best enjoyed fresh, you can prepare the sauce ahead of time and cook the pasta just before serving.

4. What type of pasta works best?
Any type of pasta works well, but spaghetti or penne are great choices for this recipe.