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Tomato Basil Cream Pasta

A delightful and comforting dish featuring ripe tomatoes, creamy cashews, and fragrant basil, perfect for any occasion.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: Italian, Mediterranean
Calories: 400
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Sauce
  • 2-3 large ripe tomatoes These juicy, sun-kissed tomatoes serve as the base of your sauce, providing a vibrant color and fresh flavor.
  • 1 cup raw cashews These creamy nuts will transform your sauce into a luscious, velvety texture, adding a touch of richness without dairy.
  • 2 Tbsp. tomato paste This concentrated form of tomato enhances the flavor depth.
  • 1/4 cup water A little liquid to ensure smooth blending.
  • 2 Tbsp. olive oil This fragrant oil brings a touch of Mediterranean flavor.
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced Optional for adding aroma and savory taste.
  • 1 pound whole wheat pasta (or gluten-free pasta) The pasta of your choice for the sauce.
  • 1 1/2 tsp. salt Essential for enriching flavors.
  • 1-2 tsp. freshly cracked black pepper Introduces subtle warmth and depth.
  • 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped Brings freshness and a burst of flavor.

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Bring a pot of salted water to a boil.
  2. Core the ripe tomatoes and roughly chop them into pieces.
Blend Sauce
  1. Add the chopped tomatoes to a blender with the cashews, tomato paste, and water. Blend until smooth and creamy.
Cook
  1. In a large sauté pan, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. If using garlic, add it to the pan and sauté until golden.
  2. Once the water is boiling, add the whole wheat pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente, about 8-10 minutes.
Combine
  1. Pour the creamy sauce into the sauté pan with garlic, bring to a gentle simmer, and season with salt. Cook for about 4-5 minutes.
  2. Once pasta is cooked, reserve 1 cup of pasta water, then drain the pasta. Add pasta to the sauté pan with black pepper and basil. Toss together, adding reserved pasta water as needed.
Serve
  1. Serve warm, optionally garnished with additional pepper and fresh basil.

Notes

Soak cashews for creaminess, add sautéed spinach or zucchini for nutrition, and incorporate red pepper flakes for heat.