Pasta is, by far, among the most loved and versatile foods in the world. Simplicity combined with the endless possibilities of flavors and ingredients turns it into an everyday dish for many homes. Be it a complete novice who is just about to have their cooking introduction or an accomplished cook, it is always good to have one delicious pasta recipe handy. In today’s article, we will share with you a fail-safe pasta recipe that is savory, easy to make, and just perfect for whatever occasion.
This recipe gives one the classic Italian tomato and basil pasta with a creamy Parmesan twist. To elevate the flavors in a tasty mouth-full, this dish will leave everyone begging for more.
Ingredients You’ll Need
To make such a delicious pasta, it requires just a few simple ingredients, most of which you might even have in your pantry already. Here’s what you’ll need to get:
For the Pasta:
400 g of pasta type you like – spaghettis, penne work great, or fusilli. Salt for boiling pasta; Tomato and Basil Sauce 2 tablespoons olive oil 1 medium onion, finely chopped 3 cloves garlic, minced 1 x 400g can of crushed tomatoes, preferably San Marzano for an authentic flavor 1 tablespoon tomato paste 1 teaspoon sugar to balance the acidity of the tomatoes 1 teaspoon dried oregano
1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a bit of heat) Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste A handful of fresh basil leaves, torn 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese (plus extra for serving) Optional Toppings: Fresh mozzarella or burrata cheese Extra virgin olive oil (for drizzling) Freshly ground black pepper Crushed red pepper flakes Step 1: Cook the Pasta
The first step, before you start with the sauce, is to begin cooking your pasta. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Once that’s boiling, add in your pasta and cook according to package instructions. Most types of pasta take anywhere from 8 to 12 minutes to become al dente; that is, when it’s tender but still firm to the bite.
When the pasta is cooked, drain it, reserving about 1/2 cup of the pasta water for thinning out the sauce later, if needed. Toss the pasta in a tablespoon of olive oil to prevent sticking while finishing the sauce.
Step 2: Making the Tomato and Basil Sauce
In this respect, while your pasta is cooking, you could easily prepare your sauce with tomato and basil. Herein is how you can do it:
Cooking the Onions and Garlic: In a deep skillet, heat about 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until onions are soft, translucent, stirring occasionally. Add minced garlic to sauté for another minute, releasing the aroma. Be careful not to burn the garlic.
Adding Tomatoes and Seasoning: Once the onions and garlic are soft and golden, stir in the can of crushed tomatoes and the tomato paste. The addition of tomato paste contributes depth and richness to the sauce. Stir until well combined.
Season the Sauce: Add salt, black pepper, dried oregano, sugar, and red pepper flakes- if using-to the sauce. The sugar helps cut through the acidity in the tomatoes for a well-balanced sauce. Allow the sauce to simmer over low heat for about 15-20 minutes-the flavors will meld well. Stir occasionally so it doesn’t stick.
Add Fresh Basil: Once the sauce has thickened a bit, take a handful of fresh basil leaves and tear them into the sauce. Basil adds that fresh herbaceous flavor that goes so well with the tomatoes. If the sauce appears to be a little too thick, you may splash in some of that reserved pasta water until you get it the way you want it.
Stir in Parmesan Cheese: Adding a 1/2 cup of grated Parmesan cheese will add a creamy and cheesy finish. The heat of the cheese will meltdown to a rich, velvety sauce. Taste the sauce and adjust seasoning, if needed.
Step 3: Combine Pasta and Sauce
Now it’s time to bring it all together once your sauce is ready and your pasta is cooked. In the skillet with the tomato and basil sauce, add the cooked pasta. Using tongs or a large spoon, toss the pasta in the sauce to well coat every strand or piece of pasta.
If it’s too thick, add a little more reserved pasta water until you achieve your perfect consistency.
Step 4: Serve and Garnish
Your pasta is now ready; plate it up and enjoy! For added flavor, here is how you can garnish and elevate the dish:
Grate Extra Parmesan: Sprinkle more freshly grated Parmesan cheese on top of each serving to deliver that salty, umami-rich kick. Fresh Mozzarella or Burrata: You could take it up a notch with a luxury addition-top the pasta with fresh mozzarella or burrata cheese. The creaminess of the cheese pairs beautifully and balances with the tang of the tomato sauce.
Drizzle with olive oil: Sprinkle some good-quality extra virgin olive oil over it to give flavor and also to give a glossy finish to the pasta.
Freshly Ground Black Pepper: A few grinds of fresh black pepper cracked over the top gives it a kick.
Red Pepper Flakes: If you like a little kick, sprinkle red pepper flakes over your pasta.
Step 5: Serve!
Your pasta is now ready for serving! The taste and flavors of the dish itself, combined with a glass of red wine and some garlic bread or fresh salad, make it perfect for any dinner at home, a gathering, or even a casual meal during a weekday. Try These Variations
Pasta is versatile. So, the recipe can easily be adapted for different tastes and preferences. Here are a few variations to try to adapt this recipe for various tastes:
Add Protein: For a more filling dinner, add some grilled chicken, shrimp, or Italian sausage to the dish. Cook the protein apart and stir into the sauce before tossing with the pasta.
Vegetable Medley: You can make the dish healthier by sautéing vegetables with the sauce, such as spinach, zucchini, or mushrooms. Just add the vegetables in with the onions and garlic, then proceed to add the tomatoes.
Creamy Tomato Sauce: If you want a creamy sauce, you can also stir in 1/4 cup of heavy cream or half-and-half at the same time you add in the Parmesan for that real rich, creamy texture.
Shapes of Pasta: Other kinds of pasta may be used for this. Even though the most classic shapes are spaghetti and penne, equally well-suited options include fusilli and rigatoni, or even farfalle.
Conclusion
This straightforward yet delicious pasta recipe reflects the philosophy of Italian cuisine in a nutshell: fresh ingredients and intense flavors. Whether you make it in the middle of a busy week or on special occasions, this pasta with tomato, basil, and Parmesan will impress. This dish, with its tangy tomatoes, aromatic basil, and creamy cheese, will fast turn into your staple recipe in the books. So get your ingredients together and start cooking and let your taste buds go all the way to Italy!
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