Pasta with Fresh Tomato and Basil Sauce

Pasta with fresh tomato and basil sauce is a classic Italian dish that celebrates the vibrant flavors of ripe tomatoes and aromatic basil. This recipe is perfect for summer when tomatoes are at their peak, providing a refreshing and light meal. The simplicity of this dish allows the ingredients to shine, making it a favorite among pasta lovers.

Ingredients

For the Pasta:

• 400g (14 oz) pasta of your choice (spaghetti, linguine, or penne work well)
• Salt (for the pasta water)
• Olive oil (for drizzling)

For the Fresh Tomato and Basil Sauce:

• 6-8 ripe tomatoes (Roma or vine-ripened are ideal)
• 3-4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves (packed)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• Optional: 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (for heat)
• Optional: Grated Parmesan cheese for serving

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Fresh Tomato Sauce

1. Blanch the Tomatoes: To easily peel the tomatoes, bring a large pot of water to a boil. Prepare an ice bath in a large bowl with cold water and ice. Cut a small "X" on the bottom of each tomato. Once the water is boiling, add the tomatoes and blanch them for about 30 seconds or until the skins start to peel away.

2. Transfer to Ice Bath: Use a slotted spoon to transfer the blanched tomatoes to the ice bath to stop the cooking process. Let them cool for a few minutes.

3. Peel and Chop: Once the tomatoes are cool enough to handle, peel off the skins and chop them into small pieces, removing the seeds if desired.

4. Sauté Garlic: In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute, being careful not to burn it.

5. Add Tomatoes: Add the chopped tomatoes to the skillet. Stir to combine and cook for about 10-15 minutes until the tomatoes break down and form a sauce. If you prefer a chunkier sauce, you can mash some of the tomatoes with a fork or potato masher.

6. Season the Sauce: Season the sauce with salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using). Stir in the fresh basil leaves, reserving a few for garnish. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes to let the flavors meld.

Step 2: Cook the Pasta

1. Boil Water: In a large pot, bring salted water to a rolling boil.

2. Add the Pasta: Once boiling, add the pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.

3. Reserve Pasta Water: Before draining the pasta, reserve about 1 cup of the cooking water to adjust the sauce's consistency later.

4. Drain the Pasta: Drain the pasta in a colander and return it to the pot.

Step 3: Combine Pasta and Sauce

1. Mix Together: Add the fresh tomato sauce to the pot with the cooked pasta. Toss gently to coat the pasta evenly with the sauce.

2. Adjust Consistency: If the sauce is too thick, add some reserved pasta water gradually until you achieve your desired consistency.

Step 4: Serve and Garnish

1. Plate the Dish: Serve the pasta in individual bowls or on a large serving platter.

2. Garnish: Top with extra fresh basil leaves and a drizzle of olive oil. Optionally, sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese.

3. Enjoy: Serve immediately while warm, savoring the fresh flavors and vibrant colors.

Tips and Variations

• Tomato Varieties: While this recipe uses Roma or vine-ripened tomatoes, you can also experiment with heirloom or cherry tomatoes for different flavors.

• Add Vegetables: Feel free to add other seasonal vegetables like zucchini or bell peppers to the sauce for added nutrition and color.

• Protein Options: For added protein, consider incorporating grilled chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas into the dish.

• Make Ahead: You can prepare the tomato sauce in advance and store it in the refrigerator for up to three days. Cook the pasta fresh when ready to serve.

• Leftovers: Store any leftover pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. When reheating, add a splash of water or broth to maintain the sauce's consistency.

Pasta with fresh tomato and basil sauce is a classic dish that celebrates the beauty of seasonal ingredients. To enhance the dish further, consider adding additional vegetables like zucchini or bell peppers for extra texture and nutrition. These additions can provide vibrant colors and a mix of flavors that complement the sweetness of the tomatoes.

Nutritional Benefits

Fresh tomatoes are rich in vitamins C and K, potassium, and antioxidants like lycopene, which is known for its potential health benefits. Basil not only adds a fragrant aroma but also contains essential oils and antioxidants that contribute to overall well-being. This dish is generally low in calories while being high in nutrients, making it a guilt-free option for any meal.

Cooking Techniques

For a deeper flavor profile, you can roast the tomatoes before blending them into the sauce. Roasting caramelizes their natural sugars, resulting in a richer and sweeter sauce. Additionally, allowing the sauce to simmer for a few extra minutes can help meld the flavors together, creating a more robust taste.

Nutritional Information

While specific nutritional values will vary based on the ingredients used, this dish generally provides a good balance of carbohydrates and vitamins. Fresh tomatoes are an excellent source of vitamins C and K, while basil adds antioxidants and anti-inflammatory properties.

Conclusion

Pasta with fresh tomato and basil sauce is a delightful dish that highlights the beauty of simple, high-quality ingredients. Its bright flavors and vibrant colors make it perfect for any occasion, whether it's a casual family dinner or a special gathering with friends. Enjoy preparing this delicious recipe and share it with loved ones for a satisfying and wholesome meal that everyone will love!