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Penne Pasta with Fresh Basil and Tomato Sauce is the perfect dish for those busy weeknights when you crave something hearty yet quick to prepare. The vibrant tomato sauce, infused with fresh basil, clings beautifully to the al dente penne, creating a satisfying meal that bursts with flavor. This recipe is not just easy to make but also allows you to enjoy the essence of fresh ingredients, making it a go-to option for families and busy professionals alike.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Penne Pasta with Fresh Basil and Tomato Sauce is a delightful blend of flavors and textures that makes for a comforting meal. Here’s why it’s a must-try:
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- Quick and Easy: Ready in under 30 minutes!
- Fresh Ingredients: Utilizes simple, pantry-friendly items.
- Flavorful: A perfect balance of tangy tomatoes and aromatic basil.
- Versatile: Great base for adding your favorite proteins or vegetables.
Ingredients
- 12 ounces penne pasta
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (28 ounces) crushed tomatoes
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1 cup fresh basil leaves, torn
- Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving (optional)
How to Make Penne with Fresh Basil and Tomato Sauce
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the penne pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente, usually about 11-13 minutes. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water, then drain the pasta.
- In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant but not browned.
- Stir in the crushed tomatoes, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using). Bring the sauce to a simmer and cook for about 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
- Add the cooked penne to the skillet with the sauce. Toss to combine, adding reserved pasta water a little at a time until desired consistency is reached.
- Remove from heat and stir in the torn basil leaves. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary.
- Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese, if desired.
Tips for the Best Results
- Make sure to salt your pasta water generously; it should taste like the ocean.
- For a richer flavor, let the tomato sauce simmer for an extra 5-10 minutes.
- Use fresh basil towards the end of cooking to preserve its vibrant flavor and color.
Easy Variations
- Add cooked chicken, shrimp, or sausage for a protein boost.
- Toss in sautéed vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, or spinach for added nutrition.
- Substitute penne with whole wheat or gluten-free pasta for dietary needs.
What to Serve With It
- A side salad with a light vinaigrette.
- Garlic bread or a crusty loaf to soak up the sauce.
- Roasted vegetables for a hearty side dish.
Storage and Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, add a splash of water to the pasta, cover, and warm in a skillet over low heat until heated through.
Recipe Card
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients:
- 12 ounces penne pasta
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (28 ounces) crushed tomatoes
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1 cup fresh basil leaves, torn
- Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving (optional)
Instructions:
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the penne pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente, reserving 1/2 cup of pasta water before draining.
- In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1-2 minutes.
- Stir in crushed tomatoes, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes. Simmer for 10 minutes.
- Add the drained penne to the sauce, tossing to combine. Use reserved pasta water to adjust sauce consistency.
- Remove from heat and stir in torn basil leaves. Serve topped with Parmesan cheese if desired.
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Notes: Customize with your favorite proteins or vegetables for a hearty twist.
