CREAMY TOMATO BASIL PASTA

CREAMY TOMATO BASIL PASTA

Creamy Tomato Basil Pasta is the perfect plant-based twist on a beloved Italian classic. This single-serve recipe features tender pasta enveloped in a rich, velvety sauce made from fresh tomatoes and creamy cashew blend, with a drizzle of olive oil for a hint of richness. The freshness of basil ties it all together, making each bite fragrant, comforting and satisfying. Whether you’re short on time or simply craving a wholesome, fuss-free meal, this recipe delivers bold flavour with minimal ingredients. It’s suitable for anyone following a vegan or dairy-free diet, yet it holds its own in texture and taste. Ideal for weekday dinners or a quick lunch, this pasta dish also pairs beautifully with a crisp green salad or steamed vegetables. Ready in just minutes, it’s a nourishing go-to for any pasta lover looking to eat clean and flavourfully.

RECIPE CATEGORY

Dinner

SERVING SIZE

1

CUISINE

Italian

PREPARATION/TECHNIQUES

Sauté, Simmer

OCCASION/HOLIDAY

Valentine’s Day, Fall,  Spring, Casual Dinner

SPECIAL CONSIDERATION/DIETARY CONCERNS

Vegan, Vegetarian, Healthy, Low Cholesterol, Low Sodium, Quick & Easy, Organic

DISH TYPE

Pasta

INGREDIENTS

There are the following ingredients for Creamy Tomato Basil Pasta:

• 1 cup cooked pasta

• ½ cup chopped tomatoes

• 1 tbsp cashew cream

• 1 tsp olive oil

• Fresh basil leaves, torn or chopped

FULL NUTRITIONAL INFORMATION

• Calories: 323.6 kcal

• Fat: 9.8 g

• Saturated Fat: 4.7 g

• Carbohydrate: 49.6 g

• Sugar: 6.1 g

• Sodium: 10.7 mg

• Fiber: 3.5 g

• Protein: 9 g

• Calcium: 29.7 mg

• Iron: 1.1 mg

• Potassium: 258.9 mg

PREPARATION

These steps are followed for the preparation of Creamy Tomato Basil Pasta:

• Prepare The Sauce Base: In a small saucepan, heat the olive oil over medium heat.

• Sauté Tomatoes: Add the chopped tomatoes and cook for 4 to 5 minutes until softened and lightly broken down.

• Stir In Cashew Cream: Lower the heat and mix in the cashew cream, stirring continuously to combine and thicken slightly.

• Add Cooked Pasta: Add the cooked pasta to the pan and toss until coated in the creamy tomato mixture.

• Simmer Briefly: Let the mixture simmer for 2 to 3 minutes to allow flavours to blend.

• Finish With Basil: Turn off the heat, stir in fresh basil and serve immediately. Garnish with more basil if desired.

PREP TIME

5 minutes

COOKING TIME

10 minutes

TIPS

Here are some helpful tips for Creamy Tomato Basil Pasta:

• Pasta Selection: Use short pasta like penne, fusilli or macaroni to hold the sauce better.

• Cashew Cream Substitute: If short on time, blend soaked cashews with a splash of water, garlic and lemon for a quick homemade cream.

• Tomato Texture: Use cherry tomatoes for a sweeter touch or canned tomatoes for convenience.

• Boost Flavour: Add a pinch of garlic powder, nutritional yeast or a splash of balsamic vinegar.

VARIATIONS

• Add Protein: Toss in cooked lentils, white beans or crumbled tofu for a more filling version.

• Make It Spicy: Include chilli flakes or a dash of hot sauce in the sauce.

• Veggie-Packed: Add spinach, mushrooms or courgette to bulk up the meal and boost nutrients.

• Nut-Free Option: Use coconut cream or silken tofu as a dairy-free alternative to cashew cream.

• Gluten-Free Version: Swap in gluten-free pasta to suit dietary needs without compromising texture.

PREPPING AND STORAGE

• Fridge: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat in a saucepan with a splash of water to loosen the sauce.

• Freezer: Freeze in individual portions for up to 1 month. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

• Meal Prep Tip: Prepare cashew cream in batches and refrigerate or freeze for quicker weeknight cooking.