Tagliatelle with tomato and basil

Tagliatelle with Tomato and Basil – An Italian Symphony on a Plate

In a hectic world, sometimes the best way to indulge ourselves is with a plate of simple yet flavorful pasta. Today, I invite you to discover together the delicious recipe for Tagliatelle with Tomato and Basil, a classic Italian dish that brings together the fresh flavors of tomatoes and basil in a perfect combination. This recipe is not only easy to prepare but also a healthy choice, rich in nutrients.

Preparation time: 10 minutes
Baking time: 15 minutes
Total: 25 minutes
Servings: 2 (80 g pasta/serving)

Necessary ingredients:

- 160 g tagliatelle (or preferred pasta)
- 250 g canned tomatoes (or fresh tomatoes)
- 2 garlic cloves
- Fresh basil (or dried if not available)
- Extra virgin olive oil
- Parmesan (for serving)
- 1 peperoncino (optional, for a touch of heat)
- 1 teaspoon cream (optional, for creaminess)
- Salt

A bit of history:

This dish is based on an ancient culinary tradition that combines the simple and natural ingredients of the earth, symbolizing the essence of Mediterranean cuisine. Tomatoes, believed to have been brought to Europe from America in the 16th century, quickly became a staple ingredient in Italian dishes, providing a fresh and vibrant taste.

Step by step in preparing Tagliatelle with Tomato and Basil:

1. Boil the pasta: Start by bringing a large pot of water to a boil. Add salt (about a tablespoon) to flavor the pasta. When the water is boiling, add the tagliatelle and follow the package instructions to cook them al dente. This usually takes between 8 and 10 minutes, depending on the type of pasta.

2. Prepare the tomato sauce: In the meantime, peel the two garlic cloves and crush them lightly with the flat side of a knife. This will release the intense flavors of the garlic. In a large skillet, add 2-3 tablespoons of olive oil and heat it over medium heat. Add the crushed garlic and sauté for 30 seconds, being careful not to burn it. The aroma of garlic will fill your kitchen with an irresistible scent.

3. Add the tomatoes: If using peperoncino, chop it finely and add it to the skillet along with the tomatoes. If opting for fresh tomatoes, be sure to peel them before dicing or blending them. Stir well and, if the sauce is too thick, you can add a little water to adjust the consistency. Season with salt to taste.

4. Enrich the sauce: Chop the fresh basil (or use dried basil) and add it to the sauce. Let it simmer on low heat for 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to combine perfectly. At the end, you can add a teaspoon of cream for a creamy texture, but this step is optional.

5. Combine the pasta with the sauce: When the pasta is ready, drain it well and add it to the skillet, tossing vigorously to coat it evenly in the flavorful sauce. If you have fresh basil, feel free to add a few whole leaves for a more vibrant look.

6. Serving: Divide the pasta among plates and sprinkle grated parmesan on top, which will add a delicious umami flavor. If you have fresh basil, add a few decorative leaves for a nice presentation.

Serving suggestions and variations:

For a personal touch, you can add some black olives or a handful of fresh arugula at the end for a contrast of textures and flavors. This dish pairs excellently with a light white wine, such as a Pinot Grigio or a Sauvignon Blanc, which will perfectly complement the flavors of the pasta.

Frequently asked questions:

1. Can I use whole grain pasta? Absolutely! Whole grain pasta is an excellent choice for higher fiber intake.

2. What can I use instead of parmesan? Substitute with a vegan cheese or feta cheese for a lower-calorie option.

3. How can I make the sauce spicier? Add more peperoncino or a dash of chili sauce for an extra kick.

4. Can I prepare the sauce in advance? Yes, the tomato sauce can be made a day ahead and stored in the refrigerator. Reheat it before adding the pasta.

Nutritional benefits:

This dish is not only delicious but also nutritious. Tomatoes are rich in lycopene, a powerful antioxidant, and basil is full of vitamins A and K. Additionally, pasta is a good source of complex carbohydrates, providing energy throughout the day.

Approximate calories: 400 kcal/serving (without cream or parmesan)

By simply choosing fresh ingredients and cooking techniques, this dish becomes not just a meal but a culinary experience full of joy. So put on your apron, gather your ingredients, and enjoy the magic of creating a dish that will delight anyone's taste buds. Buon Appetito!