Description
Creamy Tomato Basil Pasta is a rich and comforting dish made with a velvety tomato sauce, fresh basil, and your favorite pasta. It’s easy to make, packed with flavor, and perfect for a quick vegetarian dinner.
Ingredients
- 8 oz pasta (penne, fettuccine, or any type)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (14.5 oz) crushed tomatoes
- 1/2 cup tomato sauce
- 1/2 cup heavy cream (or coconut cream for vegan option)
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional for vegan)
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1/2 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
Instructions
- Cook pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
- Add crushed tomatoes and tomato sauce to the skillet. Stir and let simmer for 5 minutes.
- Reduce heat and pour in the heavy cream. Stir to combine and let simmer for another 3-5 minutes until slightly thickened.
- Season the sauce with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes if using.
- Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss to coat evenly with the sauce.
- Stir in the chopped basil and Parmesan cheese, if using.
- Serve hot, garnished with extra basil or cheese if desired.
Notes
- Use coconut cream and vegan Parmesan for a dairy-free version.
- Fresh basil gives the best flavor, but dried basil can be used in a pinch.
- Add sautéed vegetables or protein like grilled tofu or chicken if desired.
- Leftovers can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian-Inspired
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 7g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 17g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 58g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 12g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
