Basil Pasta Recipe

You will definitely be surprised with the power of flavors that this tomato and Basil Pasta Recipe can give in just 15 minutes of cooking. This is one pasta recipe which has become so easy, as it contains a minimal amount of ingredients, making it ideal whenever you want to eat something fast and delicious.

Benefits of Tomato Basil Pasta Recipe:

Wholesome: Healthy tomato basil pasta provides a nutritious boost from most of the main ingredients. The tomatoes are rich in vitamins A and C, and basil gives off essential antioxidants with anti-inflammatory properties.

Quick and Easy: This would take only about 15 minutes to prepare; it is thus a dish that suits situations where people have tight schedules but at the same time don’t want to miss out on flavor.

Heart-Healthy: Tomatoes are a rich source of lycopene, considered one of the most powerful antioxidants that keep the heart healthy. In combination with fresh basil, this makes for a dish that is good for the cardiovascular system.

Improves Immunity: With a high content of vitamin C from the tomatoes, this pasta serves to build up your immunity, considering basil has high immune-boosting properties.

Low in Calories: Tomato basil pasta is light yet satisfying, making it a great option for those wanting to keep calories down but still having flavor in a meal.

Versatile: This recipe easily lends itself to adaptation for different dietary preferences. You can use gluten-free pasta or add protein sources like grilled chicken or beans for added fullness to the meal.

Delicious and Fresh: With the flavor of basil being fresh and the ripeness of tomatoes, the taste becomes far more vividly fresh and really elevates dining with so little effort.

Easy 15-Minute Fresh Basil Pasta Recipe for an Italian-Inspired Lunch Loaded with Flavor

Think of a quick and easy lunch, yet satisfying and uplifting?
Try this basil pesto pasta recipe to bring a classical Italian favorite into your kitchen. Coat your spaghetti in a generous layer of rich, herby pesto for a delightful, flavorful meal that’s sure to put a smile on one’s face.

INGREDIENTS + INSPIRATION

This satisfying pasta is ready in just 20 minutes and uses just 7 simple, low-cost ingredients. The best part? You most probably have most of them right in your pantry! ???? We’ll use tomato paste for deep, concentrated tomato flavor and an added boost of umami, while fresh tomatoes add delightful texture, sweetness, and juicy richness to the sauce.

HOW TO MAKE SPICY TOMATO BASIL PASTA

• Boil a pot of salted water, cooking the pasta according to package instructions.
• In a skillet, heat oil over medium heat and sauté garlic, red pepper flakes, and Italian seasoning until garlic is golden. Add in tomato paste and spread it into the pan, cooking until the color has darkened.
• Stir in the tomatoes and basil, allowing the mixture to simmer until the tomatoes pop their juices.
• Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss so that the pasta is well coated with the tomato mixture.
• Serve with fresh basil or your preferred toppings. Enjoy!

COOKING TIPS :

Use Fresh and Good Quality Basil: Fresh basil is essential for a perky flavor. If fresh basil is not available, basil can also be used in dried form, but the taste will not be that powerful.

Toast the Garlic: It will be great if the garlic is lightly toasted in the oil before adding other ingredients as doing this brings out the flavor of garlic. Be careful not to burn it, as doing this makes it bitter.

Heat Control: Sauté the garlic and red pepper flakes over medium heat for even cooking of the garlic, while the red pepper flakes will just start releasing their spice without burning.

Salt Your Pasta Water Correctly: That is, throw salt into the water used in boiling pasta. Salts give flavor to pasta and create even seasoning inside it.

Save Pasta Water: Before you drain your pasta, save a cup of the cooking water. Then you can add this starchy water to the sauce so it clings well to the pasta, adjusting the sauce with it.

Cook Pasta Al Dente: Cook the pasta al dente; that is, according to package directions until it’s still firm to the bite as it will continue to cook a bit when it’s in the sauce.

Mix Pasta and Sauce Well: Put pasta in a skillet with sauce after draining, and mix well to ensure every strand is coated with flavorful sauce.

FAQs for Basil Pasta Recipe:

1. Can I use dried basil instead of fresh?
Yes, you can use dried basil, but fresh basil gives a more lively flavor. If using dried basil, start with about 1 teaspoon and adjust taste.

2. What kind of pasta works well?
Any pasta you like will work just fine, but spaghetti, fettuccine, and penne are great options to go along with basil pesto.

3. Can I make basil pesto ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare basil pesto a week in advance. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator or freeze up to 3 months.

4. How do I store leftovers?
Leftover pasta can be stored in the fridge for as long as three days in an airtight container. Gently reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of water or broth to loosen sauce if needed.

5. Can I freeze basil pasta?
Yes, you can, although fresh is best. You can store it in an airtight container or a freezer bag for up to 3 months. Reheat it well before serving.

6. What alternatives can I use instead of garlic?
In the event that you don’t want to use garlic, you can use a little garlic powder or just a pinch of asafoetida-hing for a light garlicky taste.

7. How can I make this recipe gluten-free?
To make the recipe gluten-free, use your favorite gluten-free pasta. Also, ensure that all the ingredients used in the making of the pesto, especially store-bought ones, are gluten-free.

8. How do I add some protein to this?
Of course! You can add grilled chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas to add extra protein. Simply cook them separately and toss them with the pasta and sauce.

9. What if I don’t have any red pepper flakes?
If you don’t have any red pepper flakes, feel free to substitute in a dash of hot sauce or a pinch of cayenne pepper if you like a little heat.

10. How do I adjust the recipe for a larger group?
To serve more people, one would simply scale up the ingredients proportionally. Make sure you have a large enough pot and skillet to hold increased volumes of pasta and sauce.