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In today's fast-paced world, one-pot meals have become a lifesaver for busy individuals and families. They offer the perfect blend of convenience and flavor, allowing you to whip up a delicious dish with minimal cleanup. One such delightful recipe is the One-Pot Creamy Tomato Basil Pasta Delight. This dish not only boasts rich, comforting flavors but also celebrates the freshness of its ingredients. With its creamy sauce enveloping perfectly cooked pasta and the vibrant notes of basil and tomatoes, it's an ideal choice for family dinners, quick weeknight meals, or even impressing guests at gatherings. Let's dive into the ingredients and preparation of this versatile recipe.

One-Pot Creamy Tomato Basil Pasta Delight

Discover the ease and comfort of the One-Pot Creamy Tomato Basil Pasta Delight, a perfect solution for busy weeknights or special gatherings. This recipe combines fresh tomatoes, fragrant basil, and creamy sauce to create a satisfying dish in just one pot. Ideal for families or impressing guests, it’s simple to customize with your favorite pasta, vegetables, or proteins. Enjoy a delicious meal with minimal cleanup and maximum flavor, all while celebrating the joy of home cooking.

Ingredients
  

12 oz (340g) pasta (penne or fusilli works best)

1 tablespoon olive oil

4 cups cherry tomatoes, halved

4 cloves garlic, finely minced

1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional for a spicy kick)

4 cups vegetable broth

1 cup heavy cream or coconut cream (for a dairy-free option)

1 cup fresh basil leaves, roughly chopped

1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese (or substitute nutritional yeast for a vegan alternative)

Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste

Extra fresh basil leaves for garnishing

Instructions
 

Heat the Olive Oil: In a large pot over medium heat, pour in the olive oil and allow it to warm for about one minute, creating a fragrant base for your sauce.

    Sauté Garlic & Tomatoes: Add the minced garlic and halved cherry tomatoes to the pot. Sauté for 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the tomatoes soften and begin to release their juices. For a touch of heat, add red pepper flakes during this step.

      Add the Broth: Carefully pour in the vegetable broth, stirring to evenly combine all ingredients. Increase the heat and bring the mixture to a gentle boil.

        Cook the Pasta: Once boiling, add the pasta to the pot. Stir frequently to ensure the pasta is fully submerged in the broth. Cook according to the package instructions until al dente, typically around 8-10 minutes.

          Stir in Cream & Basil: After the pasta has cooked, reduce the heat to low. Gently mix in the heavy cream (or coconut cream), chopped basil, and grated Parmesan cheese. Continue stirring until the cheese melts and creates a luscious, creamy sauce around the pasta.

            Season: Taste the dish and season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to suit your preference. If the sauce appears too thick, add a splash more broth or cream, adjusting to achieve your desired consistency.

              Garnish and Serve: Serve the creamy tomato basil pasta in generous bowls. Top each serving with fresh basil leaves and a sprinkle of additional Parmesan cheese, if desired. Serve warm and savor every delicious bite!

                Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 10 minutes | 20 minutes | 4 servings