The warm aroma of tomatoes mingling with fresh basil fills the air as you prepare to dive into a bowl of creamy tomato basil pasta. The smooth texture and vibrant color are enough to make anyone weak at the knees. Picture this dish; it’s like a cozy hug on a plate that invites you to take a seat at your favorite table.
I remember the first time I tried my hand at cooking this dish. My friends gathered for a spontaneous dinner party, and I thought, why not impress them with my culinary skills? Well, spoiler alert: they were impressed! This creamy delight quickly became our go-to recipe for gatherings and lazy weekends alike.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This creamy tomato basil pasta is not only easy to whip up but also packed with flavor that pleases everyone
- The vibrant colors make it visually appealing on any dinner table
- You can customize it by adding protein or veggies based on your cravings
- Perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions alike!
My sister couldn’t stop raving about how delicious it was when I served it during our last family gathering.
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Pasta of Your Choice: I love using fettuccine for its flatness that holds onto the sauce beautifully.
- Fresh Tomatoes: Opt for ripe tomatoes; their sweetness will elevate the entire dish.
- Fresh Basil: Use fragrant leaves for an aromatic touch; fresh makes all the difference!
- Heavy Cream: Provides that luscious texture; don’t skimp on quality here!
- Garlic Cloves: Freshly minced garlic adds depth and flavor; your kitchen will smell divine.
- Parmesan Cheese: Grated parmesan brings nuttiness; sprinkle generously before serving.
- Olive Oil: A drizzle enhances flavors; use high-quality extra virgin olive oil if possible.
- Salt and Pepper: Essential seasoning that brings out all the flavors in your ingredients!
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make It Together
Cook the Pasta: Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil over medium heat. Add your choice of pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Remember to save a cup of pasta water before draining.
Prepare the Sauce Base: In a large skillet over medium heat, warm some olive oil until shimmering. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant—about 30 seconds or until golden brown.
Add Tomatoes: Throw in those fresh tomatoes and stir well. Cook until they soften and release their juices—around 5-7 minutes should do it. The aroma will have everyone flocking to the kitchen!
Combine Cream and Basil: Lower the heat and stir in heavy cream along with freshly chopped basil leaves. Let it simmer gently while stirring occasionally—this will create that dreamy sauce you dream about!
Mix in Pasta: Toss the drained pasta into the skillet with the sauce. Mix thoroughly so every noodle is coated in creamy goodness. If needed, add reserved pasta water to achieve desired consistency.
Serve & Garnish: Once everything is combined perfectly, serve immediately! Top each plate with grated parmesan cheese and more fresh basil if you like; it’s an Instagram-worthy finish!
Now you’re ready to enjoy this delightful creamy tomato basil pasta!
With each bite, reminisce about summer days spent lounging under sun-soaked skies as you savor this Italian-inspired creation right from your kitchen. It’s not just food; it’s an experience waiting for you!
You Must Know
- This creamy tomato basil pasta is a delightful dish that combines fresh flavors and comforting textures
- The harmonious blend of juicy tomatoes, fragrant basil, and rich cream makes it irresistible
- Ideal for weeknight dinners yet elegant enough for special occasions, it’s a crowd-pleaser
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by sautéing garlic in olive oil, then add tomatoes to create a sauce while boiling the pasta. This sequence ensures everything finishes simultaneously for maximum flavor.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap the pasta with zucchini noodles or add grilled chicken for protein. Toss in some red pepper flakes for a spicy kick or sprinkle with Parmesan for extra richness.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of cream to restore creaminess.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- For perfect creamy tomato basil pasta, use ripe tomatoes for enhanced flavor
- Always reserve some pasta water before draining; it helps loosen the sauce
- Don’t skip fresh basil; it truly elevates the dish!
Cooking this creamy tomato basil pasta takes me back to my college days when I hosted dinner parties on a shoestring budget. Friends would rave about how fancy I made spaghetti sound, and all I’d done was whip up this quick dish!
FAQ
What type of pasta works best for creamy tomato basil pasta?
Any pasta shape you enjoy, like fettuccine or penne, complements this dish wonderfully.
Can I make creamy tomato basil pasta vegan?
Absolutely! Use coconut cream or cashew cream instead of dairy for a vegan option.
How can I enhance the flavor of my sauce?
Add fresh herbs like oregano or thyme alongside the basil for extra depth and aroma.
Creamy Tomato Basil Pasta
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Creamy Tomato Basil Pasta is a rich, flavorful dish that combines fresh tomatoes and fragrant basil with luxurious cream, making it perfect for quick weeknight dinners or special occasions.
Ingredients
- 8 oz fettuccine or pasta of your choice
- 2 cups fresh ripe tomatoes, chopped
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup fresh basil, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Cook the pasta in salted water until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
- In a skillet over medium heat, warm olive oil and sauté minced garlic until fragrant.
- Add chopped tomatoes; cook until softened (about 5-7 minutes).
- Stir in heavy cream and chopped basil; let simmer gently for a few minutes.
- Combine the cooked pasta with the sauce, adjusting consistency with reserved pasta water as needed.
- Serve immediately, garnished with grated Parmesan cheese and additional basil.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Boiling/Sautéing
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 410
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 350mg
- Fat: 24g
- Saturated Fat: 14g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 38g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 12g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
