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–+ servings
A fork lifting a swirl of creamy tomato basil pasta, garnished with fresh basil leaves.

Creamy Tomato Basil Pasta

This creamy tomato basil pasta is a quick and easy weeknight dinner that tastes like a restaurant-quality meal. It uses simple ingredients and comes together in under 30 minutes.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Simmer Time 5 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 2 servings
Course: Dinner, Lunch, Pasta
Cuisine: Italian-Inspired
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Pasta
  • 2 servings spaghetti or your favorite pasta shape
For the Creamy Tomato Sauce
  • 1 large ripe tomato or 2 smaller tomatoes
  • 1/2 cup raw cashews soaked if desired for smoother sauce
  • 1/4 cup water
  • 1 tbsp tomato paste
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 2-4 garlic cloves minced
  • 1 tsp salt or to taste
  • 3-4 tbsp water or wine optional, to thin sauce
  • 1-2 tsp freshly ground black pepper
  • 1 cup fresh basil packed, finely chopped

Equipment

  • Blender
  • Large pot
  • Large skillet

Method
 

  1. Bring a large pot of water to a boil for the pasta. Chop the tomato and add it to a blender along with the raw cashews, 1/4 cup water, and tomato paste. Blend until smooth.
  2. Add your pasta to the boiling water and cook according to package directions.
  3. While the pasta cooks, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over low heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for a few minutes until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.
  4. Pour the blended sauce from the blender into the skillet. Stir and bring to a simmer. Add the salt and let it cook for 4-5 minutes, stirring occasionally. If the sauce is too thick, add 3-4 tablespoons of water or wine to reach your desired consistency.
  5. Remove the sauce from the heat and stir in the chopped basil and black pepper.
  6. Once the pasta is cooked, drain it well. Return the drained pasta to its pot. Gradually add the pasta sauce to the pot, stirring to coat the pasta until you reach your desired amount of sauce. Serve immediately.

Notes

This recipe makes 2 servings, and you may have some sauce leftover, which can be stored in the refrigerator for a few days.

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