This creamy basil tomato pasta is a lovely blend of rich flavors! With fresh tomatoes and fragrant basil, it wraps around your noodles like a warm hug. It’s super quick to whip up too!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pasta Shells: The recipe calls for pasta shells, which are great for holding sauce. If you’re out, any small pasta, like fusilli or penne, also works well.
Tomatoes: Fresh tomatoes are ideal for this dish. If they aren’t in season, feel free to use canned diced tomatoes or sun-dried tomatoes for added flavor.
Heavy Cream: For a lighter version, you can substitute half-and-half or even coconut cream for a vegan option. The texture will change slightly, but it’s still delicious.
Parmesan Cheese: If you need a dairy-free option, nutritional yeast gives a cheesy flavor. For a saltier alternative, try Pecorino Romano or Grana Padano.
Fresh Basil: Basil adds great flavor here. If you can’t find fresh basil, use a pinch of dried basil, though fresh is always better!
How Can I Make the Creamy Sauce Perfectly?
Creating a creamy sauce is all about cooking gently and mixing well. Here are some tips to help you succeed:
- Cook garlic until just fragrant; don’t let it brown, or it can turn bitter.
- When adding heavy cream, whisk it into the tomato mixture slowly to ensure it blends smoothly.
- Always taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as you go, especially after adding Parmesan.
- If the sauce seems too thick, don’t hesitate to stir in a little pasta water to reach your desired consistency.
With these tips in hand, you’ll be ready to whip up a delicious pasta dish! Enjoy every bite!
Creamy Basil Tomato Pasta Recipe
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 8 ounces pasta shells (conchiglie)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2-3 ripe tomatoes, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus extra for garnish
- 1/2 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped (reserve some for garnish)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Optional: 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes for mild heat
How Much Time Will You Need?
This creamy basil tomato pasta recipe takes about 25 minutes in total. You’ll spend about 10 minutes preparing the ingredients and cooking the pasta, then another 15 minutes to prepare the sauce and bring everything together. A quick and delicious meal for any night of the week!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Once boiling, add your pasta shells and cook them according to the package instructions until they are al dente. This usually takes about 7-10 minutes. Once done, drain the pasta and set it aside.
2. Sauté the Garlic:
While your pasta is cooking, heat a large skillet over medium heat and add the olive oil. Once warm, add the minced garlic and sauté it for about 30 seconds to 1 minute, just until it’s fragrant. Be careful not to let it brown!
3. Add the Tomatoes:
Next, toss the diced tomatoes into the skillet. Cook them for about 3-4 minutes, or until they start to soften and release their juices. This will help create a beautiful sauce base.
4. Create the Creamy Sauce:
Pour in the heavy cream, stirring well to combine with the cooked tomatoes. Let it come to a gentle simmer, which means small bubbles will start to form. This is where the magic happens!
5. Mix in the Cheese:
Add the grated Parmesan cheese into the sauce. Stir it continuously until the cheese melts and the sauce turns creamy. This will give your pasta a rich, cheesy flavor!
6. Combine Pasta and Sauce:
Now, add your cooked pasta shells into the skillet. Gently stir to coat the pasta evenly with the sauce. It’s okay if some of the sauce clings to the pasta; that just means more flavor!
7. Add Fresh Basil:
Fold in the chopped fresh basil leaves. Season with salt, black pepper, and if you like a bit of heat, add in those red pepper flakes too. Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed.
8. Final Touches:
Give it another 1-2 minutes on the heat to let the flavors meld and for the sauce to thicken slightly. This is the time to make your kitchen smell amazing!
9. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve your creamy basil tomato pasta hot, garnished with extra basil leaves and a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese. Enjoy every delicious bite of this comforting dish!
With this quick recipe, you’ll have a rich, creamy, and flavorful pasta that’s perfect for any occasion. Enjoy!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Substitute the Heavy Cream?
Absolutely! If you prefer a lighter option, you can use half-and-half or even whole milk. For a dairy-free alternative, coconut cream works well, but keep in mind it will slightly alter the flavor.
What Type of Tomatoes Should I Use?
You can use fresh ripe tomatoes for the best flavor, but if they’re out of season, canned diced tomatoes or sun-dried tomatoes can be great substitutes. Just be sure to adjust the seasoning accordingly, as canned tomatoes can be saltier.
How Can I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of cream or pasta water to loosen the sauce.
Can I Make This Recipe Vegan?
Yes! To make it vegan, substitute the heavy cream with coconut cream or a plant-based cream and use nutritional yeast in place of Parmesan cheese for a cheesy flavor. Additionally, check the pasta ingredients to ensure they’re vegan-friendly.
