Frequently Asked Questions
What is Creamy Tubettini with Heirloom Tomatoes and Fresh Basil?
It is a delightful summer pasta dish featuring ripe heirloom tomatoes, fragrant fresh basil, and a rich, creamy sauce coating small shell-shaped pasta.
How many servings does this recipe yield?
This recipe is designed to yield 4 servings.
How many calories are in one serving of this dish?
Each serving contains approximately 240 calories.
What type of pasta is Tubettini?
Tubettini is a small pasta variety, often described as small shells or tubes, that holds onto creamy sauces effectively.
What are the primary ingredients for the sauce?
The sauce is primarily made from 1 cup of heavy cream, 1 cup of chopped fresh tomatoes, and 2 tablespoons of minced garlic.
How long should I cook the pasta?
The tubettini pasta should be boiled in salted water for 8-10 minutes or until it reaches an al dente texture.
How much garlic is required for this recipe?
The recipe calls for 2 tablespoons of chopped garlic.
Is this recipe vegetarian-friendly?
Yes, based on the ingredients provided, this is a vegetarian dish.
What is the fat content per serving?
There are 12 grams of fat in each serving.
How many carbohydrates are in a single serving?
One serving of this recipe contains 26 grams of carbohydrates.
What is the protein content of this pasta dish?
This dish provide 5.5 grams of protein per serving.
Can I use different tomatoes besides heirloom?
While heirloom tomatoes are recommended for their vibrant flavor, you can use any fresh, ripe tomatoes available to you.
When should I add the fresh basil?
Fold in the chopped fresh basil at the very end of the cooking process, allowing it to wilt slightly just before serving.
How much fresh basil is needed?
The recipe requires 1/4 cup of chopped fresh basil.
What is the final cooking step after adding the pasta to the sauce?
Continue cooking the mixture for 3-5 minutes until the cream thickens and coats the pasta nicely.
Does this recipe include dietary fiber or sugar information?
The provided nutrition facts do not specify the amount of fiber or sugar.
Is this a quick meal to prepare?
Yes, the recipe is tagged as a 'quick meal' and is suitable for a fast dinner option.
Can I add cheese to this dish?
Yes, it is suggested to serve the dish warm, potentially garnished with a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese if desired.
What kind of pepper should I use for seasoning?
Freshly cracked black pepper is recommended to taste.
What is the texture of the sauce?
The sauce is described as creamy and thick enough to coat the pasta thoroughly.
Is this dish suitable for summer?
Yes, it is specifically described as a delightful summer dish that celebrates garden-fresh ingredients.
How much tubettini pasta do I need?
You will need 1 cup of tubettini pasta.
How much heavy cream is used in the recipe?
The recipe uses 1 cup of heavy cream.
What are some common tags for this recipe?
Common tags include pasta, vegetable, summer recipe, heirloom tomatoes, and family-friendly.
Do I need to salt the pasta water?
Yes, the instructions recommend bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil for the pasta.
Can I prepare the ingredients in advance?
Yes, you can chop the garlic, tomatoes, and basil ahead of time to speed up the cooking process.
Is this recipe suitable for children?
Yes, the recipe is tagged as family-friendly and is likely to be enjoyed by all ages.
Should the garlic be minced or sliced?
The ingredient list specifies chopped garlic, which should be added to the cream and tomatoes.
Can I substitute heavy cream with a lighter alternative?
You can, though it may change the richness and thickness of the final sauce.
How is the pasta prepared before adding it to the sauce?
The pasta is boiled, drained, and set aside before being combined with the simmering cream mixture.