Introduction
Discover a delightful pasta dish that is both creamy and flavorful, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a cozy weekend meal. This recipe combines the richness of heavy cream with the freshness of basil and tomatoes, resulting in a delectable sauce that clings beautifully to al dente pasta.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
– 8 ounces uncooked pasta
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 3-4 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) crushed tomatoes
– 1 cup heavy cream
– ½ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
– ½ cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
– ½ teaspoon Italian seasoning
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Prep Time
Preparation for this dish is easy and quick, taking about 10 minutes to set up everything before you start cooking.
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
The cooking process takes approximately 15-20 minutes, making the total time to complete the dish around 30 minutes. This recipe yields about 4 servings, making it perfect for sharing or enjoying as leftovers.
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add 8 ounces of uncooked pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve about ½ cup of the pasta water before draining.
Step 2: Sauté the Garlic
In a large skillet over medium heat, melt 2 tablespoons of butter. Once melted, add 3-4 cloves of minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds, or until the garlic is fragrant but not browned.
Step 3: Prepare the Tomato Sauce
Add 1 can (14.5 oz) of crushed tomatoes to the skillet. Stir in ½ teaspoon of Italian seasoning, and season with salt and pepper to taste. Allow the sauce to simmer for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Step 4: Incorporate the Cream
Reduce the heat to low. Slowly blend in 1 cup of heavy cream until fully incorporated. Continue cooking for an additional 2-3 minutes to warm through.
Step 5: Add Parmesan Cheese
Stir in ½ cup of freshly grated Parmesan cheese, mixing until the cheese is melted and the sauce is smooth.
Step 6: Combine Pasta and Sauce
Toss the drained pasta into the sauce, ensuring that it is fully coated. If the sauce appears too thick, gradually add some of the reserved pasta water until you reach the desired consistency.
Step 7: Finish with Basil
Remove the skillet from heat and stir in ½ cup of chopped fresh basil leaves. Serve immediately, garnished with additional Parmesan cheese if desired.
Notes
Tip 1: Pasta Cooking
Make sure to cook the pasta just until al dente, as it will continue to soften when combined with the sauce.
Tip 2: Garlic Care
Be careful not to overcook the garlic; it can become bitter if browned.
Tip 3: Tomato Quality
Use high-quality crushed tomatoes for the best flavor. If preferred, fresh tomatoes can be used as an alternative.
Tip 4: Cream Options
For a lighter sauce, consider using half-and-half or reducing the amount of heavy cream.
Tip 5: Fresh Herbs
Adding more fresh basil at serving can enhance the flavor and presentation of the dish.
Cook techniques
Cooking Pasta
To cook pasta properly, bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add the uncooked pasta and cook until al dente, which means it should be firm to the bite. This usually takes about 8-10 minutes depending on the type of pasta. Don’t forget to reserve some pasta water for later use.
Sautéing Garlic
When sautéing garlic, it’s vital to use medium heat. Add minced garlic to melted butter and cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant, but avoid browning it, as burnt garlic can impart a bitter taste.
Making Tomato Sauce
To create a flavorful tomato sauce, add crushed tomatoes to the sautéed garlic along with Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Allow the sauce to simmer, which helps develop its flavors. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
Incorporating Cream
When adding heavy cream to a sauce, reduce the heat to low to prevent curdling. Stir until fully mixed in and let it cook for a few additional minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
Creating a Cheese Sauce
To make a cheese sauce, add freshly grated Parmesan cheese into the cream mixture. Stir continuously until the cheese melts fully into the sauce, creating a smooth texture.
Tossing Pasta
When tossing the cooked pasta with the sauce, ensure that all the pasta is evenly coated. If the sauce seems too thick, gradually add reserved pasta water until you reach the desired consistency.
Finishing with Fresh Herbs
Add fresh herbs like basil at the end of cooking for optimal flavor. Remove the skillet from heat before stirring in the basil to maintain its bright color and taste.
FAQ
Can I use any type of pasta for this recipe?
Yes, you can use any type of pasta you prefer, such as spaghetti, penne, or fusilli.
What can I substitute for heavy cream?
You can substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or a non-dairy alternative like coconut cream, but this may change the flavor and texture.
How can I make this recipe vegetarian?
This recipe is already vegetarian as it does not contain meat. Just ensure that the Parmesan cheese is made without animal rennet if you want a fully vegetarian version.
Can I add protein to this dish?
Yes, you can add cooked chicken, shrimp, or even beans to enhance the protein content of the dish.
How can I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove, adding a splash of water or cream to help loosen the sauce.
Conclusion
This creamy tomato basil pasta is a delightful dish that combines the richness of heavy cream with the freshness of basil and the depth of garlic. The Parmesan cheese adds a wonderful savory flavor, making it a satisfying meal for any occasion. It’s easy to prepare, and with just a few ingredients, you can create a truly delicious pasta that everyone will love.
More recipes suggestions and combination
Vegetable Variation
Add sautéed zucchini, bell peppers, or spinach to the pasta for a nutritious twist.
Pasta Primavera
Incorporate seasonal vegetables such as asparagus, cherry tomatoes, and peas for a fresh flavor enhancement.
Protein Boost
Include grilled chicken, shrimp, or sausage for added protein and heartiness to the dish.
Spicy Kick
Add red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce for those who enjoy a little heat in their meals.
Creamy Pesto Sauce
Substitute half of the heavy cream with pesto for a vibrant and aromatic sauce variation.
Cheesy Spinach Pasta
Mix in fresh spinach and substitute the Parmesan cheese with mozzarella for a gooey, cheesy experience.
