Authentic Fresh Basil Tomato Pasta Sauce
Indulge in the vibrant flavors of this basil-infused pasta sauce, inspired by recipes cherished in local community cookbooks. Perfectly suited for basil enthusiasts, this sauce offers a harmonious blend of fresh ingredients. It enriches any pasta dish with its aromatic profile and robust taste. Enjoy a culinary escape to a fragrant herb garden with this easy-to-make Italian delight.
4
Servings
N/A
Calories
7
Ingredients
Ingredients
olive oil
1/4 cup (none)
Italian tomatoes
28 ounces (diced)
garlic cloves
2-3 (chopped)
tomato paste
2 tablespoons (none)
salt and pepper
to taste (none)
fresh basil
2 tablespoons (chopped)
fresh parmesan cheese
as needed (grated)
Instructions
1
Heat the olive oil in a large saucepan over medium heat until shimmering.
2
Carefully add the diced Italian tomatoes to the saucepan, taking care to avoid any splattering.
3
Allow the tomatoes to simmer for a moment before adding the chopped garlic and tomato paste, stirring to combine.
4
Season the mixture with salt and pepper according to taste.
5
Increase the heat to bring the sauce to a gentle boil.
6
Once boiling, sprinkle the chopped fresh basil generously over the entire surface of the sauce. Do not stir.
7
Reduce the heat to low, allowing the basil to infuse into the sauce for about 35 minutes. Avoid covering the saucepan during this time so the flavors can develop fully.
8
After cooking, remove the sauce from heat and let it cool slightly before refrigerating until ready to serve.
9
For serving, reheat the sauce gently over low heat. Stir the sauce to combine the flavors thoroughly just before topping your favorite pasta dish.
10
Finish with freshly grated Parmesan cheese over the top for an indulgent touch of creaminess.
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Authentic Fresh Basil Tomato Pasta Sauce?
It is a vibrant, basil-infused pasta sauce inspired by recipes from local community cookbooks, perfect for herb enthusiasts.
How many servings does this recipe make?
This recipe yields approximately 4 servings.
Is this sauce suitable for vegetarians?
Yes, the recipe is tagged as vegetarian.
What type of tomatoes should be used?
The recipe calls for 28 ounces of diced Italian tomatoes.
How much olive oil is required?
You will need 1/4 cup of olive oil for this recipe.
Why shouldn't I stir the basil into the sauce immediately?
Not stirring allows the fresh basil to properly infuse its aromatic flavors into the sauce while it simmers.
How long does the sauce need to simmer?
The sauce should simmer on low heat for about 35 minutes.
Should the saucepan be covered while simmering?
No, do not cover the saucepan so the flavors can develop fully during the 35-minute simmer.
What is the role of tomato paste in this sauce?
Tomato paste adds a robust taste and helps thicken the consistency of the sauce.
How much fresh basil is needed?
The recipe requires 2 tablespoons of chopped fresh basil.
When do I add the garlic?
Add the chopped garlic after the tomatoes have simmered for a moment in the olive oil.
What type of cheese is recommended for serving?
Freshly grated Parmesan cheese is recommended to add a touch of creaminess.
How do I reheat the sauce?
Reheat the sauce gently over low heat and stir it to combine flavors just before serving.
Can I make this sauce in advance?
Yes, the instructions suggest letting it cool and refrigerating it until you are ready to serve.
What heat setting should be used for the olive oil?
Heat the olive oil over medium heat until it is shimmering.
How many garlic cloves are used?
The recipe uses 2-3 chopped garlic cloves.
How do I prevent splattering when adding tomatoes?
Carefully add the diced tomatoes to the saucepan to avoid oil splashes.
Is this a quick meal option?
Yes, it is tagged as a quick meal and a simple recipe.
What is the preparation for the tomatoes?
The Italian tomatoes should be diced.
Can I use this sauce for any type of pasta?
Yes, it is designed to enrich any of your favorite pasta dishes.
What seasonings are used in this recipe?
The sauce is seasoned with salt and pepper to taste.
At what point is the sauce brought to a boil?
Increase the heat to bring the sauce to a gentle boil after adding the tomato paste and seasonings.
Is this an authentic Italian recipe?
It is described as an easy-to-make Italian delight inspired by local community cookbooks.
How should the fresh basil be prepared?
The fresh basil should be chopped before being sprinkled over the sauce.
When should the Parmesan cheese be added?
Finish the dish by grating fresh Parmesan over the top just before serving.
Is this a one-dish meal?
Yes, it is tagged as a one-dish meal.
Does the recipe use dried or fresh herbs?
This recipe specifically uses fresh basil for its aromatic profile.
What is the first step in making this sauce?
The first step is heating the olive oil in a large saucepan over medium heat.
Why should I let the sauce cool before refrigerating?
Allowing it to cool slightly helps maintain the quality of the sauce before storage.
Does this sauce have a strong basil flavor?
Yes, it is specifically designed for basil enthusiasts and offers a fragrant, herb-infused taste.