Rustic Fresh Tomato Basil Pasta
This Rustic Fresh Tomato Basil Pasta is a delightful one-dish meal bursting with the vibrant flavors of fresh tomatoes and fragrant basil. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or as a crowd-pleasing dish for gatherings, this recipe combines simple ingredients to create a comforting and delicious meal. The garlic-infused pasta is topped with juicy, seasoned tomatoes, making each bite a refreshing experience. Share this delightful dish with family and friends for a taste of summer in every forkful.
N/A
Servings
N/A
Calories
5
Ingredients
Ingredients
Tomatoes
2-3 (medium, chopped)
Dry Pasta (like rigatoni)
8 ounces (uncooked)
Garlic Clove
1 (whole)
Dried Basil
1 teaspoon (dry)
Vegetable Oil
1 tablespoon (for dressing)
Instructions
1
Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add a whole garlic clove to infuse the water with flavor.
2
Once the water is boiling, add the dry pasta (such as rigatoni) and cook according to package instructions, until al dente.
3
While the pasta is cooking, wash and chop the tomatoes into small chunks, then place them in a mixing bowl.
4
Sprinkle the chopped tomatoes with dried basil and drizzle with vegetable oil. Gently toss to combine and let the mixture sit to allow the flavors to meld.
5
When the pasta is ready, drain it well, making sure to remove the garlic clove.
6
Return the hot pasta to the pot, add the seasoned tomato mixture, and toss everything together until the pasta is well coated.
7
Serve immediately while warm, garnished with fresh basil if desired.
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Rustic Fresh Tomato Basil Pasta?
A vibrant one-dish meal featuring fresh tomatoes, fragrant basil, and garlic-infused pasta.
Is this recipe vegetarian?
Yes, this recipe is vegetarian and vegan-friendly as it contains no animal products.
What type of pasta is recommended for this recipe?
The recipe suggests using rigatoni, but any dry pasta will work well.
How much pasta do I need?
You will need 8 ounces of dry pasta for this recipe.
How many tomatoes are required?
The recipe calls for 2 to 3 medium-sized tomatoes.
How do I use the garlic in this recipe?
A whole garlic clove is added to the boiling water to infuse the pasta with flavor and is removed before serving.
Should the garlic be minced?
No, the garlic should be left whole to infuse the boiling water.
How are the tomatoes prepared?
The tomatoes should be washed and chopped into small chunks.
What is the dressing for the tomatoes?
The tomatoes are tossed with dried basil and one tablespoon of vegetable oil.
Are the tomatoes cooked?
No, the seasoned tomato mixture is added to the hot pasta fresh, which allows them to warm slightly without losing their texture.
Can I use fresh basil instead of dried?
The recipe uses dried basil for the mixture, but fresh basil is recommended for garnish.
What texture should the pasta be?
The pasta should be cooked until it is al dente, according to the package instructions.
Is this an easy recipe to follow?
Yes, it is designed as a quick and easy weeknight dinner.
What cuisine does this dish represent?
This dish is inspired by Italian cuisine.
Can I substitute vegetable oil with olive oil?
Yes, olive oil can be used for a more traditional Italian flavor profile.
How many ingredients are needed in total?
There are 5 main ingredients: tomatoes, pasta, garlic, dried basil, and vegetable oil.
When should I add the tomato mixture?
Add the tomato mixture to the pot once the pasta has been drained and returned to the pot.
Should I serve this dish hot or cold?
It is best served immediately while the pasta is still warm.
Is this a good dish for parties?
Yes, it is described as a crowd-pleasing dish suitable for gatherings.
Can I add protein to this meal?
Yes, you can easily add chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas to increase the protein content.
Do I need to peel the tomatoes?
No, the recipe calls for them to be chopped with the skin on for a rustic texture.
What makes this dish 'rustic'?
The use of simple, fresh ingredients and chunky, hand-chopped tomatoes gives it a rustic feel.
Can I use cherry tomatoes?
Yes, cherry or grape tomatoes halved would be a delicious substitute.
How do I ensure the flavor is well-distributed?
Toss the pasta and tomato mixture thoroughly until the pasta is well coated.
Is salt necessary for the pasta water?
Yes, boiling the pasta in salted water is essential for seasoning the noodles.
Can I make this gluten-free?
Yes, simply substitute the dry pasta with your favorite gluten-free pasta variety.
How long should the tomato mixture sit?
Let it sit while the pasta cooks to allow the flavors to meld.
Is there any sugar in this recipe?
No, there is no added sugar in this savory pasta dish.
What can I garnish this with?
Fresh basil leaves or a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese make excellent garnishes.
Can I reheat leftovers?
Yes, you can gently reheat it, though the fresh tomatoes are best enjoyed immediately.