Simple Tomato Basil Pasta
If you’re craving a taste of Italy but pressed for time, this Tomato Basil Pasta is the perfect dish for you. Requiring minimal ingredients and preparation time, it’s an excellent choice for a busy weeknight or when you just want a light and flavorful meal.
Ingredients:
- 200g spaghetti or any pasta of your choice
- 3 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 400g cherry tomatoes, halved or quartered
- 1 handful fresh basil leaves, torn
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving
Instructions:
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Reserve a cup of pasta water, then drain the pasta and set aside.
- While the pasta cooks, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant, being careful not to burn.
- Add the cherry tomatoes to the skillet. Season with salt and pepper, and cook for about 5 minutes, or until the tomatoes are soft and juicy.
- Lower the heat and add the cooked pasta to the skillet. Toss everything together, adding a splash of reserved pasta water to create a light sauce that coats the pasta evenly.
- Gently stir in the torn basil leaves and cook for an additional minute to let the flavors meld.
- Taste and adjust the seasoning with more salt and pepper if necessary.
- Serve the pasta hot, topped with a generous sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese.
Tips:
- For a protein boost, add grilled chicken or shrimp to the pasta.
- If cherry tomatoes aren’t available, substitute with diced regular tomatoes or canned whole tomatoes that have been drained and chopped.
- For an extra touch of richness, finish the dish with a drizzle of high-quality extra-virgin olive oil just before serving.
Nutrition Information:
Per serving: Calories: 420; Fat: 14g; Carbohydrates: 62g; Protein: 14g
Enjoy your homemade Tomato Basil Pasta and bring a slice of Italian cuisine right to your table in less than 30 minutes!