This tomato basil penne is a fresh and vibrant dish that highlights the natural sweetness of tomatoes and the aromatic flavor of basil. It’s a simple yet delicious meal that’s perfect for any night of the week. Serves two.
Ingredients:
- 200g penne
- 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 tbsp olive oil
- Fresh basil, torn
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Preparation:
- Cook the penne: Start by boiling a large pot of salted water. Once boiling, add the penne and cook until al dente according to the package instructions. Be sure to reserve 1/4 cup of the pasta water before draining.
- Sauté garlic and tomatoes: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about a minute until fragrant. Then, toss in the halved cherry tomatoes and season with salt and pepper. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the tomatoes soften and begin to burst, creating a delicious sauce.
- Combine pasta and sauce: Once the penne is cooked and drained, add it directly to the skillet with the tomatoes. Toss everything together, adding some of the reserved pasta water to loosen the sauce and help it coat the pasta evenly.
- Add fresh basil: Remove the skillet from the heat and fold in the torn basil. The residual heat will wilt the basil just enough, infusing the dish with its fresh aroma.
- Serve: Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary. Serve hot, garnished with additional fresh basil and a sprinkle of parmesan if desired. Enjoy this light yet satisfying pasta dish!
Garnish with extra basil leaves for a fresh touch. Perfect for a quick weeknight meal. Serve immediately and savor the flavors.
Nutrient Breakdown (per serving):
Protein: 12g
Carbohydrates: 62g
Fat: 16g
Potential Allergies: This dish contains gluten (from the pasta) and dairy if you choose to add parmesan. For a gluten-free version, use gluten-free penne.