Fettuccine Pasta Recipe in Tomato Basil Sauce: A Perfect Summer Dish
When the summer sun is shining and tomatoes are at their peak, there’s no better way to enjoy them than with a bowl of homemade Fettuccine Pasta in Tomato Basil Sauce. This recipe highlights the fresh, vibrant flavors of ripe tomatoes and fragrant basil, all tossed together with perfectly cooked fettuccine. The addition of Parmigiano Reggiano cheese creates a creamy, savory finish that elevates this classic Italian dish to new heights. It’s a simple, vegetarian, and utterly satisfying meal that will quickly become a family favorite.
Cuisine:
Italian Recipes
Course:
Dinner
Diet:
Vegetarian
Ingredients:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Fettuccine Pasta (or Tagliatelle) | 300 grams |
| Extra Virgin Olive Oil | 2 tablespoons |
| Garlic | 4 cloves, finely chopped |
| Tomatoes | 500 grams, chopped |
| Basil leaves | 50 grams, roughly torn |
| Salt | To taste |
| Pepper | To taste |
| Parmigiano Reggiano cheese | 1/4 cup, grated |
Preparation Time:
15 minutes
Cooking Time:
30 minutes
Instructions:
-
Cook the Fettuccine Pasta:
Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add the fettuccine pasta (or any other long strand pasta like tagliatelle) and cook according to the package instructions, typically for about 10-15 minutes, until the pasta is al dente. Once cooked, drain the pasta in a colander and rinse it under cold water to stop the cooking process. Drizzle with a little extra virgin olive oil to prevent sticking, and toss to coat. -
Prepare the Tomatoes:
While the pasta is cooking, prepare the tomato sauce. Bring a separate pot of water to a boil. Add the chopped tomatoes and blanch them until the skin begins to crack, about 2-3 minutes. Remove the tomatoes from the boiling water and place them into a bowl of ice water to cool. Once cooled, peel off the skins and transfer the tomatoes to a blender or food processor. Puree the tomatoes until smooth. -
Make the Tomato Basil Sauce:
Heat the extra virgin olive oil in a large saucepan over medium heat. Add the finely chopped garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds, just until fragrant and golden. Next, stir in the pureed tomatoes, chopped basil leaves, and season with salt and pepper. Bring the sauce to a vigorous boil on high heat, then reduce the heat to low. Allow the sauce to simmer for about 20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it thickens and the flavors meld together. -
Combine Pasta and Sauce:
Once the tomato sauce has thickened, toss the cooked fettuccine pasta into the saucepan. Turn the heat to high and toss the pasta gently in the sauce until it’s fully coated. Taste and adjust the seasoning with more salt or pepper, if needed. -
Serve:
Serve the Fettuccine Pasta in Tomato Basil Sauce hot, garnished with freshly grated Parmigiano Reggiano cheese and a light dusting of coarsely ground black pepper. This dish pairs wonderfully with a light appetizer like Pineapple Carpaccio and a dessert such as Tiramisu for a well-rounded Italian meal.
Tips for Success:
- Fresh Tomatoes: Using ripe, in-season tomatoes is key for this recipe. They bring a natural sweetness and depth of flavor to the sauce.
- Basil: Fresh basil is a must for this recipe. You can also use some of the basil to garnish the finished dish for a burst of color and flavor.
- Pasta Choice: Fettuccine is the classic choice for this dish, but feel free to use any long pasta, like spaghetti or tagliatelle, depending on what you have on hand.
- Parmigiano Reggiano: Don’t skimp on the Parmigiano Reggiano! It’s the perfect cheese to bring a savory, umami depth to the pasta and sauce.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving):
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | Approximately 350 kcal |
| Carbohydrates | 50g |
| Protein | 10g |
| Fat | 14g |
| Fiber | 4g |
| Sodium | 300mg |
This Fettuccine Pasta Recipe in Tomato Basil Sauce is more than just a meal; it’s a celebration of summer’s best flavors. Whether you’re cooking for a casual dinner with friends or a special family gathering, this dish will delight and satisfy every time.
