Tomato Basil Penne Pasta Recipe

Penne pasta: A type of pasta shaped like tubes, perfect for holding the sauce.

Olive oil: Used for sautéing and adding a rich flavor to the dish.

Garlic: Adds a fragrant and savory element to the pasta.

Cherry tomatoes: Provide a sweet and juicy burst of flavor.

Fresh basil: Brings a fresh and aromatic taste to the dish.

Salt and pepper: Essential for seasoning and enhancing the flavors.

Parmesan cheese: Optional, but adds a creamy and salty finish if desired.

When sautéing the garlic in olive oil, make sure to keep the heat at medium to avoid burning it. Burnt garlic can impart a bitter taste to your dish. Once the garlic becomes fragrant, which usually takes about 30 seconds to a minute, immediately add the cherry tomatoes. This technique ensures that the garlic infuses the olive oil with its flavor without becoming overpowering.

• penne pasta - Substitute with fusilli pasta: Fusilli has a similar texture and can hold the sauce well, making it a good alternative.

• olive oil - Substitute with avocado oil: Avocado oil has a similar fat content and a mild flavor that works well in pasta dishes.

• garlic - Substitute with shallots: Shallots provide a milder, slightly sweet flavor that can complement the dish if garlic is not available.

• cherry tomatoes - Substitute with grape tomatoes: Grape tomatoes have a similar sweetness and juiciness, making them a good replacement.

• fresh basil - Substitute with fresh spinach: Fresh spinach can add a similar leafy texture and a mild flavor that pairs well with the other ingredients.

• salt - Substitute with soy sauce: Soy sauce can add a similar level of saltiness along with a bit of umami flavor.

• pepper - Substitute with red pepper flakes: Red pepper flakes can add a bit of heat and spice, enhancing the overall flavor of the dish.

• parmesan cheese - Substitute with nutritional yeast: Nutritional yeast provides a cheesy flavor and is a great option for those who are lactose intolerant or vegan.

• Allow the penne pasta to cool completely before storing. This helps prevent condensation, which can make the pasta soggy.
• Transfer the cooled pasta to an airtight container. If you have multiple layers, place a piece of parchment paper between them to avoid sticking.
• Store the container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Make sure to label it with the date to keep track of freshness.
• For freezing, portion the pasta into individual servings. This makes it easier to reheat only what you need.
• Place each portion in a freezer-safe bag or container. Squeeze out as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn.
• Label the bags or containers with the date and contents. The pasta can be frozen for up to 2 months.
• To reheat, thaw the pasta in the refrigerator overnight. Alternatively, you can use the defrost setting on your microwave.
• Reheat the pasta in a skillet over medium heat. Add a splash of olive oil or a bit of water to help loosen it up.
• Stir occasionally until heated through. If desired, add a bit more fresh basil and parmesan cheese to refresh the flavors.
• Serve immediately and enjoy your delicious tomato basil penne pasta once again!

• Stovetop Method:

  • Heat a skillet over medium heat.
  • Add a splash of olive oil or a bit of water to prevent sticking.
  • Add the leftover Tomato Basil Penne Pasta and stir occasionally until heated through, about 5-7 minutes.
  • If the pasta seems dry, add a bit more olive oil or a splash of water to rehydrate.

• Microwave Method:

  • Place the Tomato Basil Penne Pasta in a microwave-safe dish.
  • Add a tablespoon of water or olive oil to keep it moist.
  • Cover the dish with a microwave-safe lid or plastic wrap, leaving a small vent.
  • Microwave on medium power for 1-2 minutes, stir, and then continue heating in 30-second intervals until hot.

• Oven Method:

  • Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
  • Place the Tomato Basil Penne Pasta in an oven-safe dish.
  • Cover with aluminum foil to prevent drying out.
  • Bake for about 15-20 minutes, or until heated through.
  • For an extra touch, sprinkle some parmesan cheese on top before baking.

• Boiling Water Method:

  • Bring a pot of water to a gentle boil.
  • Place the Tomato Basil Penne Pasta in a heatproof colander.
  • Submerge the colander in the boiling water for about 1-2 minutes.
  • Drain and serve immediately.

• Steaming Method:

  • Set up a steamer basket over a pot of simmering water.
  • Place the Tomato Basil Penne Pasta in the steamer basket.
  • Cover and steam for about 5 minutes, or until heated through.
  • This method helps retain moisture and prevents the pasta from drying out.

• Large pot: used to cook the penne pasta according to package instructions.

• Colander: used to drain the cooked pasta.

• Large skillet: used to heat the olive oil, sauté the garlic, and cook the cherry tomatoes.

• Wooden spoon: used to stir the garlic, tomatoes, and pasta in the skillet.

• Chef's knife: used to mince the garlic and chop the fresh basil.

• Cutting board: used as a surface for mincing garlic and chopping basil.

• Measuring spoons: used to measure the olive oil and optional parmesan cheese.

• Grater: used to grate the parmesan cheese if desired.

• Serving bowl: used to serve the finished tomato basil penne pasta.

Prep ingredients in advance: Chop the garlic, halve the cherry tomatoes, and chop the basil ahead of time to streamline the cooking process.

Use pre-grated cheese: Save time by using pre-grated parmesan cheese instead of grating it yourself.

Cook pasta ahead: Cook the penne pasta earlier in the day and store it in the fridge. Reheat it by tossing it in the skillet with the olive oil and garlic.

Multitask: While the pasta is cooking, start sautéing the garlic and cherry tomatoes to save time.