Quick Tomato, Basil & Garlic Pasta Dinner 🍝

Overview:

This Quick Tomato, Basil & Garlic Pasta Dinner is a go-to recipe for those moments when you need to whip up something delicious in a hurry. Perfect for busy weeknights or lazy weekends, this dish is both satisfying and flavorful. Paired with a simple dinner salad and a glass of wine, it makes for a delightful meal that’s easy to prepare and sure to please even the pickiest eaters.

Recipe Name: Quick Tomato, Basil & Garlic Pasta Dinner
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 20 minutes
Servings: 4
Calories: 529.7 per serving
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (based on 16 reviews)

Ingredients:

1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
3 cloves garlic, minced
3 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
1 cup fresh basil leaves, torn
2 teaspoons dried red pepper flakes
1 cup grated parmesan cheese
Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions:

Cook Pasta: Begin by cooking the pasta according to the package instructions. Make sure to use your favorite type of pasta for this dish, whether it’s penne, spaghetti, or any other variety you prefer. Drain the pasta once it’s cooked to al dente perfection.
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Prepare Garlic Infusion: While the pasta is cooking, heat the extra virgin olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and dried red pepper flakes to the skillet, and sauté for 2-3 minutes until fragrant. Be careful not to let the garlic brown, as it can turn bitter.
Add Cherry Tomatoes: Once the garlic is aromatic, add the halved cherry tomatoes to the skillet. Gently stir the tomatoes to coat them in the flavorful oil and garlic mixture. Allow the tomatoes to cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until they begin to soften slightly but still retain their shape.
Combine Pasta and Tomato Mixture: Once the pasta is cooked and drained, add it directly to the skillet with the tomato mixture. Toss the pasta and tomatoes together until they are well combined. The heat from the skillet will help the flavors meld together beautifully.
Add Fresh Basil: Tear the fresh basil leaves and sprinkle them over the pasta. The fragrant basil adds a burst of freshness and color to the dish, elevating its flavor to new heights. Gently toss the basil into the pasta until evenly distributed.
Season to Taste: Season the dish with salt and pepper according to your taste preferences. Remember that the parmesan cheese will also add a salty kick, so adjust the seasoning accordingly.
Serve and Enjoy: Transfer the pasta to serving plates or bowls, and top each portion generously with grated parmesan cheese. The cheese will melt slightly over the warm pasta, creating a creamy and indulgent finish. Serve immediately, and savor every delicious bite!

Nutritional Information (Per Serving):

Calories: 529.7
Fat: 12g
Saturated Fat: 1.8g
Cholesterol: 0mg
Sodium: 10.1mg
Carbohydrates: 88.9g
Fiber: 4.7g
Sugar: 4g
Protein: 15.7g

Recipe Notes:

Fresh Ingredients: For the best flavor, be sure to use ripe and flavorful cherry tomatoes and fragrant basil leaves. The quality of these ingredients will greatly influence the overall taste of the dish.
Customization: Feel free to customize this recipe to suit your preferences. You can add other vegetables such as spinach, mushrooms, or zucchini for extra nutrition and flavor. Likewise, you can adjust the amount of garlic and red pepper flakes to suit your desired level of heat.
Leftovers: This pasta dish is delicious when served fresh, but it can also be enjoyed as leftovers. Simply store any remaining portions in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of water or broth to revive the sauce if needed.
Wine Pairing: As mentioned, this pasta dinner pairs beautifully with a nice glass of wine. Opt for a light and refreshing white wine such as Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc to complement the flavors of the dish. Alternatively, a light-bodied red wine like Pinot Noir can also be a delightful choice.

Whether you’re cooking for yourself, your family, or guests, this Quick Tomato, Basil & Garlic Pasta Dinner is sure to become a favorite in your recipe repertoire. With its simple yet vibrant flavors and quick preparation time, it’s a recipe that proves that delicious meals don’t have to be complicated. Enjoy! 🍽️🌿