Welcome to our delightful and fresh Tomato Basil Pasta recipe! This vibrant dish captures the essence of Mediterranean flavors and is sure to brighten up your dining experience. With the perfect balance of tangy tomatoes, fragrant basil, and al dente pasta, this recipe is a celebration of simplicity and freshness. Each bite is a burst of summer, transporting you to sun-kissed Italian landscapes. Whether you’re craving a quick and easy weeknight dinner or preparing a feast for friends and family, this Tomato Basil Pasta is a crowd-pleaser that will leave everyone satisfied and craving more. So, gather your ingredients and let the flavors of this classic dish whisk you away to culinary bliss!
What are the benefits of Tomato Basil Pasta?
Tomato Basil Pasta not only delivers a delightful burst of flavors but also provides a range of health benefits. This dish is centered around ripe tomatoes, which are packed with antioxidants like lycopene—a beneficial compound known for its potential to reduce the risk of certain diseases. Lycopene has been associated with heart health, improved skin health, and even a lower risk of certain cancers.
In addition to the tomatoes, the pasta itself provides a good source of carbohydrates, giving you energy to fuel your day. Whole wheat pasta, specifically, contains more fiber compared to refined pasta, which promotes digestive health and helps maintain stable blood sugar levels.
Furthermore, the fresh basil used in Tomato Basil Pasta offers a variety of nutrients, including vitamins A, K, and C, as well as minerals like calcium and iron. These nutrients are essential for maintaining healthy bones, immune function, and overall well-being. With its rich flavors and nutritional benefits, Tomato Basil Pasta is a delicious and wholesome choice for a satisfying meal.
Step into kitchen right now!!! Let’s try Tomato Basil Pasta together!!!
Step 1:
In a large pot, combine pasta, water, broth, tomatoes, olive oil, Italian seasoning, onion powder, garlic powder, salt, and crushed red pepper. Cover and bring to a boil over high heat.
Step 2:
Once boiling, uncover and reduce the heat to medium-high. Cook while stirring frequently for about 10 minutes.
Step 3:
Add in the kale and continue cooking, stirring often until most of the liquid has been absorbed, which should take around 5 to 7 minutes. If using spinach, add it in after about 10 minutes to cook for the remaining 2 to 3 minutes.
Step 4:
Stir in the basil. If desired, garnish with Parmesan cheese.
In conclusion, our Tomato Basil Pasta recipe is a true culinary masterpiece that celebrates the vibrant flavors of sun-ripened tomatoes and fragrant basil. With its simple yet exquisite combination of ingredients, this dish captures the essence of Italian cuisine and delivers a burst of freshness in every bite. The tangy tomatoes and aromatic basil create a harmonious symphony of flavors that dance on your taste buds. Whether enjoyed as a satisfying weeknight meal or a star dish at a dinner party, this Tomato Basil Pasta is a testament to the beauty of simplicity and the power of quality ingredients. So indulge in this flavorful pasta creation and let it transport you to the sun-drenched shores of Italy. Buon appetito! If you aspire to enhance your culinary skills further, do consider acquiring the gourmet e-book below, offering an array of exquisite recipes and culinary expertise.
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Nourishing One-Pot Tomato Basil Pasta: A Weight-Loss Friendly Recipe
- Total Time: 25minutes
Description
This recipe can easily be made vegetarian. Opt for low-sodium “no-chicken” broth, which provides a hearty flavor without the meat. You can find this type of broth in the natural foods section of most grocery stores. Alternatively, you can use your preferred low-sodium vegetable broth or even make your own. For a vegan twist, skip the Parmesan cheese and use nutritional yeast instead.
Ingredients
- 8 ounces whole-wheat rotini
- 1 cup water
- 2 cups low-sodium “no-chicken” broth or chicken broth
- 1 (15 ounce) can no-salt-added diced tomatoes
- 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
- 1 ½ teaspoons Italian seasoning
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon crushed red pepper
- 6 cups baby kale or baby spinach
- ½ cup slivered basil
- Grated Parmesan cheese for garnish
Instructions
Step 1:
- In a large pot, combine pasta, water, broth, tomatoes, olive oil, Italian seasoning, onion powder, garlic powder, salt, and crushed red pepper.
- Cover and bring to a boil over high heat.
Step 2:
- Once boiling, uncover and reduce the heat to medium-high.
- Cook while stirring frequently for about 10 minutes.
Step 3:
- Add in the kale and continue cooking, stirring often until most of the liquid has been absorbed, which should take around 5 to 7 minutes.
- If using spinach, add it in after about 10 minutes to cook for the remaining 2 to 3 minutes.
Step 4:
- Stir in the basil. If desired, garnish with Parmesan cheese.
Equipment
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- Select ripe tomatoes for rich flavor; pair with fresh basil for a fragrant herbaceous touch.
- Saute garlic in olive oil until fragrant; toss with tomatoes and basil for a vibrant sauce.
- Finish with a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil and a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese for added depth of flavor.
- Prep Time: 5minutes
- Cook Time: 20minutes
- Category: HEALTH,Weight-Loss & Diet
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How can I make the tomato basil sauce more flavorful?
To make the tomato basil sauce more flavorful, consider adding ingredients such as garlic, onion, or red pepper flakes for added depth of flavor. You can also try using San Marzano tomatoes, which are known for their sweetness and low acidity, and simmering the sauce with fresh basil leaves to infuse the flavors. Don't forget to season the sauce with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
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How can I cook the pasta perfectly al dente?
To cook the pasta perfectly al dente, follow the instructions on the package and test the pasta a few minutes before the recommended cooking time is up. To do this, take a piece of pasta out of the pot and bite into it to see if it's cooked to your liking. Additionally, make sure to salt the pasta water generously and stir the pasta occasionally while it's cooking to prevent it from sticking together.
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How can I garnish and enhance the presentation of my Tomato Basil Pasta?
To garnish and enhance the presentation of your Tomato Basil Pasta, consider topping it with a sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan cheese, a drizzle of high-quality olive oil, or a few leaves of fresh basil. Additionally, consider serving the pasta in a large, shallow bowl to show off the vibrant colors of the sauce and pasta. You can also garnish the dish with a few cherry tomatoes or a sprig of fresh basil for added visual interest.
