Creamy Basil Tomato Penne
Indulge in this delightful Creamy Basil Tomato Penne that combines the rich flavors of sun-dried tomatoes and fresh basil with a luscious pink sauce. Perfect for a cozy dinner for two, this dish brings the warmth of Italian cuisine straight to your table. The garlic-infused olive oil and the tanginess from the white wine create a balanced sauce that clings beautifully to the penne pasta. Finished with grated Parmesan, this recipe is as delicious as it is easy to prepare - a guaranteed crowd-pleaser for any pasta lover!
N/A
Servings
N/A
Calories
10
Ingredients
Ingredients
garlic cloves
2 (finely chopped)
olive oil
1 tablespoon
tomato sauce
2 cups
white wine
2 tablespoons
half-and-half
1/4 cup
sun-dried tomato
1/4 cup (chopped)
salt
1 teaspoon
penne
1/2 lb (cooked)
basil
1/2 cup (torn)
parmesan cheese
1/2 cup (grated)
Instructions
1
Begin by heating a medium skillet over medium heat, then add the olive oil.
2
Once the oil is warm, add the finely chopped garlic and sauté for about 2 minutes, or until fragrant and lightly golden.
3
Pour in the tomato sauce and bring to a gentle simmer for 1 minute, allowing the flavors to meld.
4
Carefully add the white wine and half-and-half, then simmer for an additional 2 minutes, stirring occasionally.
5
Incorporate the chopped sun-dried tomatoes into the sauce and mix well.
6
Add the torn basil leaves and continue to simmer for 1 minute, letting the basil infuse its flavor into the sauce.
7
Add the cooked penne pasta to the skillet, gently tossing to coat the pasta evenly with the sauce. Remove from heat.
8
Finish by mixing in the grated Parmesan cheese until melted and creamy.
9
Serve immediately, garnished with extra basil or cheese if desired.
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Creamy Basil Tomato Penne?
It is a pasta dish featuring a luscious pink sauce made from tomato sauce, half-and-half, fresh basil, and sun-dried tomatoes.
How many people does this recipe serve?
This recipe is perfect for a cozy dinner for two people.
What kind of pasta is recommended for this dish?
The recipe specifically calls for 1/2 lb of cooked penne pasta.
Can I substitute the penne with another pasta type?
Yes, you can use other short pasta shapes like fusilli, farfalle, or rigatoni as they also hold creamy sauces well.
What makes the sauce a pink sauce?
The combination of tomato sauce and half-and-half creates the characteristic creamy pink color and texture.
How should the garlic be prepared?
The two garlic cloves should be finely chopped before sautéing.
What type of oil should I use to sauté the garlic?
The recipe recommends using one tablespoon of olive oil.
How long do I need to sauté the garlic?
Sauté the garlic for about 2 minutes, or until it becomes fragrant and lightly golden.
What is the purpose of adding white wine to the sauce?
The white wine adds a layer of tanginess and helps balance the richness of the cream and cheese.
Is there a substitute for white wine?
If you prefer not to use wine, you can substitute it with chicken or vegetable broth and a squeeze of lemon juice.
What is half-and-half?
Half-and-half is a simple blend of equal parts whole milk and light cream.
Can I use heavy cream instead of half-and-half?
Yes, heavy cream can be used for an even richer and thicker sauce.
How are the sun-dried tomatoes prepared for this recipe?
The 1/4 cup of sun-dried tomatoes should be chopped before being incorporated into the sauce.
When do I add the fresh basil?
The basil is added after the sun-dried tomatoes and simmered for 1 minute to infuse its flavor.
How should I prepare the basil leaves?
The 1/2 cup of fresh basil should be torn into pieces.
Should the penne be cooked before adding it to the skillet?
Yes, the penne should be pre-cooked according to package directions before being tossed with the sauce.
What kind of cheese is used in this recipe?
The recipe calls for 1/2 cup of grated Parmesan cheese.
How do I incorporate the Parmesan cheese?
Add the cheese after the pasta has been coated in sauce and mix until it is melted and creamy.
Can I add protein to this dish?
Absolutely! Grilled chicken, sautéed shrimp, or Italian sausage would make great additions.
Is this recipe suitable for vegetarians?
Yes, this recipe is vegetarian-friendly as written.
How long should the sauce simmer after adding the liquids?
Simmer for an additional 2 minutes after adding the white wine and half-and-half.
Can I make this dish spicy?
Yes, you can add red pepper flakes while sautéing the garlic for a spicy kick.
What side dishes go well with this pasta?
A fresh green salad or garlic bread would complement the creamy flavors of the penne.
How should I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 to 4 days.
Can I use dried basil instead of fresh?
Fresh basil is preferred for the best flavor, but you can use 1-2 teaspoons of dried basil if necessary.
What if I don't have sun-dried tomatoes?
You can omit them or replace them with roasted red peppers for a similar texture and sweetness.
Is this a quick meal to prepare?
Yes, it is tagged as a 'quick meal' and 'easy dinner,' making it perfect for busy weeknights.
What is the flavor profile of this dish?
It features savory garlic, sweet and tangy sun-dried tomatoes, and aromatic fresh basil in a rich, creamy sauce.
Can I use bottled minced garlic?
Yes, you can use about 1 teaspoon of bottled minced garlic as a substitute for the fresh cloves.
How do I serve this dish?
Serve immediately while hot, optionally garnished with extra fresh basil or a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese.