Savory Tomato Basil Balsamic Pasta
Indulge in this quick and delicious Savory Tomato Basil Balsamic Pasta, perfect for busy weeknights or when you want a flavorful dish in under 15 minutes. This recipe combines the sweetness of sautéed onions and garlic with the vibrant taste of diced tomatoes, fresh basil, and a rich balsamic vinegar, creating a mouthwatering sauce that clings beautifully to al dente pasta. Top it off with a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese for an added touch of creaminess. Invite friends over and share the joy of this delightful dish!
4
Servings
170
Calories
8
Ingredients
Ingredients
pasta
1/2 lb (dry)
onion
1/2 cup (chopped)
garlic
3 cloves (minced)
oil
2 tablespoons (olive or vegetable oil)
canned diced tomatoes
1 (15 ounce) can (Italian flavor)
basil
3 tablespoons (fresh, chopped (or 1 tablespoon dried))
balsamic vinegar
2-3 tablespoons (to taste)
parmesan cheese
1/4 cup (optional, grated)
Instructions
1
Cook the pasta according to the package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2
In a large saucepan, heat the oil over medium heat. Once hot, add the chopped onion and minced garlic.
3
Sauté for about 3 minutes, or until the onions are translucent and fragrant.
4
Stir in the canned diced tomatoes (with their juices) and chopped basil. Allow the mixture to come to a simmer, cooking for an additional 2-3 minutes.
5
Add in the balsamic vinegar, stirring to combine. Adjust the vinegar to your taste.
6
Finally, toss the cooked pasta into the sauce, ensuring each strand is coated. Remove from heat.
7
If desired, sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese before serving.
Nutrition Information
4.5g
Fat
22.5g
Carbs
5g
Protein
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Savory Tomato Basil Balsamic Pasta?
It is a quick, flavorful Italian-inspired dish that combines pasta with a sauce of sauteed onions, garlic, diced tomatoes, fresh basil, and balsamic vinegar.
How long does it take to make this recipe?
This recipe is designed to be completed in under 15 minutes, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
Is this recipe suitable for vegetarians?
Yes, this recipe is vegetarian as it uses pasta, vegetables, and optional Parmesan cheese.
How many servings does this recipe yield?
This recipe yields 4 servings.
How many calories are in a serving?
There are approximately 170 calories per serving.
What are the macronutrients for this dish?
Each serving contains 4.5g of fat, 22.5g of carbohydrates, and 5g of protein.
What kind of pasta should I use?
You can use 1/2 lb of your favorite dry pasta, such as spaghetti, penne, or fusilli.
Can I use dried basil instead of fresh?
Yes, you can substitute 1 tablespoon of dried basil for the 3 tablespoons of fresh basil called for in the recipe.
What type of oil is recommended for sauteing?
The recipe suggests using olive oil or vegetable oil.
How much garlic is needed?
The recipe requires 3 cloves of minced garlic.
What type of canned tomatoes should I buy?
A 15-ounce can of Italian-flavored diced tomatoes is recommended for the best flavor profile.
Is the Parmesan cheese required?
No, the 1/4 cup of grated Parmesan cheese is optional and can be omitted for a dairy-free version.
What is the role of balsamic vinegar in this sauce?
Balsamic vinegar adds a rich, slightly sweet, and tangy depth to the tomato sauce.
How do I know when the onions are ready?
Sauté the onions for about 3 minutes until they are translucent and fragrant.
Should I drain the canned tomatoes?
No, stir in the canned diced tomatoes along with their juices to create the sauce.
How do I cook the pasta?
Cook the pasta according to the package directions until it is al dente, then drain it.
Can I adjust the amount of balsamic vinegar?
Yes, start with 2 tablespoons and adjust up to 3 tablespoons based on your personal taste preference.
What is the serving size?
The specific serving size is not defined, but the recipe is calculated for 4 equal portions.
How many ingredients are in this recipe?
There are a total of 8 ingredients.
Can I add meat to this recipe?
While the base recipe is vegetarian, you can easily add cooked chicken, shrimp, or ground sausage.
How should I prepare the onion?
The onion should be finely chopped to measure approximately 1/2 cup.
Is this recipe spicy?
The recipe is savory and tangy rather than spicy, though you can add red pepper flakes if you prefer heat.
Can I make this gluten-free?
Yes, simply replace the standard pasta with your favorite gluten-free pasta variety.
How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftover pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 to 4 days.
Can I freeze the sauce?
Yes, you can prepare the tomato basil balsamic sauce separately and freeze it for up to 3 months.
What makes the sauce cling to the pasta?
The combination of tomato juices, oil, and balsamic vinegar creates a light emulsion that coats the pasta strands.
Is this a good meal prep recipe?
Yes, it is quick to make and holds up well for lunch the next day, either hot or as a cold pasta salad.
What can I use if I do not have balsamic vinegar?
While balsamic is preferred for its sweetness, red wine vinegar with a pinch of sugar can be used as a substitute.
Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned?
Yes, but you may need to add a splash of water or vegetable broth to compensate for the lack of canning juices.
Does this recipe contain fiber?
The recipe data does not specify fiber content, but using whole-wheat pasta would increase the fiber significantly.