Creamy Tomato Basil Pasta

This Creamy Tomato Basil Pasta recipe is a delightful dish that brings the summer garden to your table. With ripe tomatoes and fragrant basil, this dish is perfect for any occasion, from a quick weeknight dinner to an impressive meal for guests. The creamy sauce pairs beautifully with the pasta, creating a comforting yet fresh meal that everyone will love.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This recipe can be made in just 30 minutes, making it ideal for busy evenings.
• Fresh Ingredients: Utilizing seasonal tomatoes and fresh basil enhances the flavor profile immensely.
• Versatile Dish: Perfect as a main course or as a side, this pasta can be easily adapted to include your favorite veggies.
• Rich and Creamy Sauce: The combination of heavy cream and parmesan creates a luxurious texture that coats the pasta perfectly.
• Meatless Delight: A satisfying meatless option that doesn’t compromise on taste or richness.

Tools and Preparation

To create this delicious creamy tomato basil pasta, you’ll need some essential kitchen tools. These tools will help streamline your cooking process and enhance your overall experience.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large pot
• Skillet
• Whisk
• Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot: Ideal for boiling pasta evenly and ensuring it cooks perfectly al dente.
• Skillet: Perfect for preparing the creamy sauce with all its rich flavors without overcrowding.
• Whisk: Essential for achieving a smooth, lump-free sauce when combining ingredients.

Ingredients

This creamy tomato basil pasta recipe is a delicious meatless meal that’s fast, simple to make, and is perfect for in-season summer tomatoes and fresh basil!

Pasta Ingredients

• 8 ounces uncooked pasta

Sauce Ingredients

• 2 tablespoons butter
• 1/2 tablespoon flour
• 3-4 cloves garlic (minced)
• 1/4 cup dry white apple vinegar or chicken/vegetable broth
• 1 cup heavy/whipping cream
• 1/2 teaspoon Dijon mustard (optional)
• 1/4 teaspoon Italian seasoning

Fresh Ingredients

• 2 medium tomatoes (chopped)
• 1/2 cup freshly grated parmesan cheese
• 1/2 cup basil (tear it up) (or more, to taste)

Seasoning

• Salt & pepper (to taste)

How to Make Creamy Tomato Basil Pasta

Step 1: Boil the Pasta

Boil a salted pot of water for the pasta. Cook it al dente according to package directions.

Step 2: Prepare the Roux

When the pasta is about 10 minutes away from being done:
1. Add the butter to a skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Once melted, sprinkle in the flour and cook for about 1 minute while stirring often.

Step 3: Add Garlic and Vinegar/Broth

Add in the minced garlic followed by either dry white apple vinegar or broth:
1. Let it bubble until reduced by half (approximately 30 seconds to 1 minute).

Step 4: Create the Sauce

Whisk in:
– The heavy cream,
– Optional Dijon mustard,
– Italian seasoning until you have a smooth sauce.

Step 5: Incorporate Tomatoes

Stir in the chopped tomatoes:
– Cook the sauce for another 5 minutes or until it thickens slightly.

Step 6: Finish the Sauce

Remove the skillet from heat:
– Stir in parmesan cheese and torn basil leaves.

Step 7: Combine with Pasta

Add drained pasta to the skillet:
– Toss until well-coated. If needed, add a tablespoon of reserved pasta water if sauce appears too thick.
– Serve immediately with more freshly grated parmesan if desired.

Enjoy this creamy tomato basil pasta as a delightful addition to your meal rotation!

How to Serve Creamy Tomato Basil Pasta

Serving creamy tomato basil pasta can elevate your meal experience. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or enjoying a cozy night in, these serving suggestions will enhance the dish’s flavors and presentation.

Pair with Garlic Bread

• Garlic bread is a classic side that complements the creamy sauce perfectly. The crunchy texture balances the softness of the pasta.

Add a Fresh Salad

• A light salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a simple vinaigrette adds freshness to your meal. It helps to cut through the richness of the creamy sauce.

Top with Extra Basil

• Garnishing with additional fresh basil not only enhances the flavor but also adds a beautiful pop of color to your plate.

Serve with Grated Cheese

• Offering extra grated parmesan cheese at the table allows guests to customize their dish according to taste preferences.

Accompany with Roasted Vegetables

• Roasted seasonal vegetables bring an earthy element to your meal. They can be seasoned simply with olive oil, salt, and pepper for maximum flavor.

How to Perfect Creamy Tomato Basil Pasta

To achieve the best results with your creamy tomato basil pasta, consider these helpful tips.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh tomatoes and basil make a significant difference in flavor compared to canned or dried options.
• Don’t Overcook Pasta: Cooking pasta al dente ensures it maintains its shape and texture when combined with the sauce.
• Adjust Sauce Thickness: If the sauce gets too thick, add a little reserved pasta water until you reach your desired consistency.
• Experiment with Cheese: Try different cheeses such as mozzarella or goat cheese for varied flavors and textures in your pasta dish.
• Add Protein: For those who prefer a heartier meal, grilled chicken or sautéed shrimp can be added for extra protein without overpowering the dish.
• Season to Taste: Always taste and adjust seasoning before serving. A pinch of salt or a dash of pepper can enhance all the flavors beautifully.

Best Side Dishes for Creamy Tomato Basil Pasta

Pairing side dishes with creamy tomato basil pasta can create a well-rounded meal. Here are some delicious options to consider:

1. Caprese Salad – A refreshing combination of fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil drizzled with balsamic glaze.
2. Bruschetta – Toasted bread topped with diced tomatoes, garlic, and basil makes for a delightful appetizer or side.
3. Grilled Asparagus – Lightly seasoned asparagus adds a healthy crunch that complements the creamy pasta beautifully.
4. Zucchini Noodles – For a low-carb option, serve spiralized zucchini lightly sautéed in olive oil alongside your pasta.
5. Roasted Cauliflower – Seasoned roasted cauliflower provides an earthy flavor that pairs well with tomato-based dishes.
6. Crispy Green Beans – Oven-roasted green beans tossed in olive oil and sea salt add a crispy texture that contrasts nicely with the creaminess of the pasta.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Cooking pasta can be simple, but there are common pitfalls to watch out for.

• Bold timing: Not timing the pasta and sauce together can lead to overcooked pasta or cold sauce. Start the sauce when the pasta is about 10 minutes away from being done.

• Bold not using enough water: Cooking pasta in insufficient water can make it sticky. Always use a large pot with plenty of salted water.

• Bold skimping on seasoning: Underseasoning your dish can result in bland flavors. Taste the sauce as you cook and adjust seasonings accordingly.

• Bold ignoring fresh ingredients: Using stale or out-of-season tomatoes can compromise flavor. Opt for fresh, ripe tomatoes for the best taste in this creamy tomato basil pasta.

• Bold rushing the sauce: Skipping steps or cooking the sauce too quickly may not allow flavors to develop fully. Let the sauce simmer to enhance its richness.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store creamy tomato basil pasta in an airtight container.
• Keep it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing Creamy Tomato Basil Pasta

• Place cooled pasta in a freezer-safe container.
• It can be frozen for up to 2 months; however, cream sauces may change texture upon thawing.

Reheating Creamy Tomato Basil Pasta

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Place pasta in a baking dish, cover with foil, and heat for about 20 minutes.

• Microwave: Use a microwave-safe dish, cover loosely, and heat in intervals of 1–2 minutes until warm. Stir between intervals.

• Stovetop: In a skillet over low heat, add a splash of broth or cream and reheat gently, stirring occasionally until hot.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about creamy tomato basil pasta that can help you perfect your dish.

What is Creamy Tomato Basil Pasta?

Creamy tomato basil pasta is a rich and flavorful dish made with fresh tomatoes, basil, cream, and pasta. It’s simple yet satisfying!

Can I use different types of pasta?

Yes! You can use any pasta shape you prefer, such as penne, fusilli, or spaghetti. Each type will offer a unique texture.

How do I make this dish vegan?

To make creamy tomato basil pasta vegan, substitute heavy cream with coconut cream or cashew cream and omit cheese or use a vegan alternative.

How long does it take to prepare?

The total time for this recipe is about 30 minutes, making it perfect for a quick weeknight dinner.

Can I customize this recipe?

Absolutely! Feel free to add vegetables like spinach or zucchini or experiment with different herbs for added flavor.

Final Thoughts

This creamy tomato basil pasta is not only delicious but also incredibly versatile. You can easily adapt it with seasonal ingredients or personal preferences. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or something special for guests, give this recipe a try—you won’t be disappointed!

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Creamy Tomato Basil Pasta

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• Author: Amelia
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Yield: Serves approximately 4 people 1x

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Description

Creamy Tomato Basil Pasta is a vibrant dish that captures the essence of summer with its rich flavors and comforting texture. This recipe brings together fresh tomatoes, aromatic basil, and a luxurious creamy sauce to create a delightful meal that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting friends for dinner or enjoying a cozy night in, this pasta dish is quick to prepare and sure to impress. Ready in just 30 minutes, it combines seasonal ingredients into a satisfying vegetarian meal that doesn’t skimp on flavor.

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Ingredients

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• 8 ounces uncooked pasta
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 1/2 tablespoon flour
• 3–4 cloves garlic (minced)
• 1/4 cup dry white apple vinegar or chicken/vegetable broth
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 2 medium tomatoes (chopped)
• 1/2 cup freshly grated parmesan cheese
• 1/2 cup fresh basil (torn)

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Instructions

1. Boil salted water in a large pot and cook pasta until al dente.
2. In a skillet, melt butter over medium heat, add flour, and stir for about 1 minute.
3. Incorporate minced garlic and vinegar/broth; let bubble until reduced by half.
4. Whisk in heavy cream, optional Dijon mustard, and Italian seasoning until smooth.
5. Stir in chopped tomatoes and simmer for about 5 minutes until slightly thickened.
6. Remove from heat; stir in parmesan cheese and torn basil leaves.
7. Toss the drained pasta with the sauce until well-coated. Serve hot.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 plate (approximately 250g)
• Calories: 485
• Sugar: 5g
• Sodium: 350mg
• Fat: 28g
• Saturated Fat: 17g
• Unsaturated Fat: 9g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 45g
• Fiber: 3g
• Protein: 14g
• Cholesterol: 80mg