The dish you’re referring to is commonly known as “Tomato, Basil, and Garlic Pasta.” It’s a classic Italian pasta dish that celebrates the flavors of simple, fresh ingredients. Let’s break down your questions:
What is it:
Tomato, Basil, and Garlic Pasta is a pasta dish that features a flavorful sauce made from ripe tomatoes, aromatic basil, and pungent garlic. It’s known for its vibrant colors, aromatic scent, and delicious taste.
History:
This dish is a staple of Italian cuisine, which is known for its emphasis on high-quality, fresh ingredients. The combination of tomatoes, basil, and garlic is a classic flavor trio in Italian cooking. The use of these ingredients together likely dates back centuries, as they are fundamental to many traditional Italian recipes.
Components:
The main components of Tomato, Basil, and Garlic Pasta are:
- Pasta: You can use various types of pasta, such as spaghetti, fettuccine, penne, or any other pasta shape you prefer.
- Tomatoes: Ripe and juicy tomatoes are typically used. You can use fresh tomatoes that are blanched, peeled, and chopped, or you can use canned crushed tomatoes for convenience.
- Basil: Fresh basil leaves add a fragrant and herby element to the dish.
- Garlic: Minced or thinly sliced garlic is sautéed to infuse the sauce with its distinctive flavor.
- Olive Oil: High-quality extra-virgin olive oil is used for sautéing and drizzling over the finished dish.
- Salt and Pepper: To season the sauce.
Steps to Prepare:
- Start by boiling a pot of water and cooking the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Reserve some pasta water before draining.
- In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, being careful not to brown it.
- Add the chopped tomatoes to the skillet, along with a pinch of salt and pepper. Let the tomatoes cook down and release their juices, creating a sauce. If using canned tomatoes, you can add a bit of sugar to balance the acidity.
- Tear the fresh basil leaves and add them to the sauce. Allow the flavors to meld together as the sauce simmers.
- Once the pasta sauce has thickened and the flavors have developed, add the cooked pasta to the skillet. Toss the pasta in the sauce, adding a bit of the reserved pasta water if needed to achieve your desired consistency.
- Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed with more salt and pepper.
- Serve the pasta in individual plates, drizzling each portion with extra-virgin olive oil and garnishing with additional fresh basil leaves.
Time Needed:
The time needed to prepare Tomato, Basil, and Garlic Pasta can vary based on your cooking experience and the specific pasta type you’re using. On average, it can take around 30 to 45 minutes from start to finish.
Remember, cooking times might vary, so keep an eye on the pasta and sauce to ensure they’re cooked to your preference. Enjoy your delicious and simple Tomato, Basil, and Garlic Pasta!
Certainly, here are the nutrition facts and some health information for the “Tomato, Basil, and Garlic Pasta” recipe:
Nutrition Facts (Approximate values per serving, based on average ingredients):
- Calories: Around 300-400 kcal
- Carbohydrates: Approximately 50-60g
- Protein: About 8-10g
- Fat: Around 8-12g
- Fiber: Approximately 3-5g
- Sugar: About 4-6g
- Sodium: Around 300-400mg
Health Information:
- Tomatoes: Tomatoes are rich in lycopene, a powerful antioxidant linked to various health benefits, including reducing the risk of certain cancers and promoting heart health. They also contain vitamins C and K, potassium, and fiber.
- Basil: Basil contains essential oils with potential anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties. It’s also a good source of vitamins A, K, and C, as well as minerals like calcium and iron.
- Garlic: Garlic has been associated with numerous health benefits, including boosting the immune system, improving heart health, and having potential antimicrobial properties.
- Olive Oil: Extra-virgin olive oil is a source of heart-healthy monounsaturated fats and antioxidants. It has been linked to improved cardiovascular health and may help reduce inflammation.
- Pasta: Depending on the type of pasta used, it provides carbohydrates for energy. Opt for whole wheat pasta for added fiber and nutrients.
Overall, this dish is relatively balanced in terms of macronutrients, and its health benefits are mainly derived from the fresh ingredients used in the recipe. It’s a good idea to enjoy this pasta in moderation as part of a varied and well-rounded diet.
Please note that the provided nutrition values are approximations and can vary based on portion sizes, specific ingredients used, and cooking methods. If you have specific dietary concerns or requirements, consider consulting a registered dietitian for personalized advice.
