Tomato Basil Penne Pasta Recipe

Ingredients

Penne Pasta:

Penne pasta is a type of short, tubular pasta that originates from Italy. It is typically made from durum wheat semolina and water, giving it a rough texture on the outside and a smooth surface on the inside.

The ingredients for penne pasta include:

• Durum Wheat Semolina: This is the primary ingredient in making penne pasta. Durum wheat semolina is coarser than all-purpose flour, which gives the pasta its distinctive texture.
• Water: Water is used to mix with durum wheat semolina and shape into the desired form of penne pasta.

No added flavorings or ingredients are typically included in standard penne pasta. The taste of plain penne pasta is mild, which makes it a versatile ingredient for pairing with various sauces and seasonings in recipes like the Tomato Basil Penne Pasta.

* 8 oz (225g) penne pasta

The starting point for this delicious Tomato Basil Penne Pasta recipe is a fundamental ingredient, 8 oz (225g) of penne pasta.

Penne pasta, also known as penne rigate, is a type of tubular pasta originating from Italy. Its name “penne” comes from the Italian word for quill or nib.

The distinctive angled ends and tube-like shape of penne pasta provide an excellent surface area for holding onto sauces, making it a popular choice for dishes like this Tomato Basil Penne Pasta.

The 8 oz (225g) quantity is sufficient to serve four people as a main course or six as a side dish. You can easily scale up the recipe if you need to feed a larger crowd.

It’s worth noting that penne pasta comes in various sizes, from short and fat to long and thin. The 8 oz (225g) quantity mentioned is typically a standard size for this type of pasta and is well-suited for most recipes.

Make sure to choose high-quality pasta that will hold up well to cooking and provide the best flavor experience for your dish. A good penne pasta can make all the difference in bringing out the flavors of the tomato sauce and basil in this recipe.

Tomato Basil Sauce:

The ingredients required to make a delicious Tomato Basil sauce for your penne pasta recipe are straightforward and easy to source, making it an accessible option for home cooks.

You will need:

3 lbs of fresh tomatoes (crushed or chopped) – You can use either cherry or grape tomatoes for their sweet flavor, or beefsteak tomatoes for a more robust taste.

1/4 cup of olive oil – This is used as the base of our sauce to provide moisture and add some extra nutrients with its rich antioxidant content.

6-8 garlic cloves (minced) – Garlic adds an aromatic depth to the dish, but feel free to adjust according to personal taste.

1/4 cup of chopped fresh basil leaves – Basil’s distinct flavor pairs wonderfully with tomatoes and complements the herby undertones in penne pasta.

Salt and pepper (to taste) – A pinch of salt enhances flavors and a few grinds of black or white pepper add some subtle heat and brightness to our sauce.

Optionally, 1 tsp dried oregano or Italian seasoning can be added for extra depth in flavor.

+ 2 cups (475ml) cherry tomatoes, halved

The ingredients for this delicious Tomato Basil Penne Pasta recipe are carefully selected to ensure a flavorful and nutritious dish. Here’s what you’ll need:

**Pasta:**

• 1 pound (450g) penne pasta: A classic choice for pasta dishes, penne is tubular in shape with angled ends, making it perfect for holding onto chunky sauces.

**Tomatoes:**

• 2 cups (475ml) cherry tomatoes, halved: These bite-sized tomatoes are sweet and bursting with flavor. Halving them will allow the flavors to meld together with the basil and garlic.

**Fresh Basil:**

• 1 cup (15g) fresh basil leaves: The star of the dish, fresh basil adds an aromatic and herbaceous flavor that pairs perfectly with tomatoes. Choose leaves with no signs of wilting or browning.

**Garlic and Onion:**

• 3 cloves garlic, minced: Minced garlic is easy to mix into the sauce and releases its flavor quickly.
• 1 small onion, finely chopped: Chopped onions add a sweetness that balances out the acidity of the tomatoes.

**Olive Oil and Salt:**

• 2 tablespoons (30ml) extra virgin olive oil: The perfect oil for cooking pasta dishes, olive oil brings together the flavors of the ingredients. Use a high-quality oil with a distinct taste.
• 1 teaspoon salt: Salt enhances flavor and helps to balance out the sweetness of the tomatoes and basil.

**Optional Cheese:**

• Grated Parmesan cheese (optional): For an added burst of flavor, sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese on top of the dish. The saltiness complements the sweetness of the tomatoes and adds a nice texture.

+ 1/4 cup (15g) fresh basil leaves, chopped

The ingredients for this delicious Tomato Basil Penne Pasta recipe are carefully selected to bring out the flavors and textures of the dish. At the heart of this recipe is, of course, the basil leaves. Chopped fresh basil adds a vibrant green color and a fragrant aroma that complements the tomatoes perfectly.

In the specified amount of 1/4 cup (15g), the chopped fresh basil leaves provide just the right amount of flavor to balance out the savory taste of the penne pasta and the tangy taste of the tomato sauce. This is crucial in creating a harmonious balance of flavors that will leave your taste buds wanting more.

The use of high-quality fresh basil leaves makes all the difference in this recipe. Fresh basil has a brighter, more intense flavor than dried basil, which would be overpowering and unbalanced in this dish. The freshness of the basil also helps to cut through the richness of the pasta and sauce, making each bite a delightful experience.

When using fresh basil, it’s essential to chop it just before adding it to the recipe. This ensures that the herbs retain their potency and don’t lose any of their flavor or aroma. Simply place the leaves on a cutting board, hold them firmly in place with one hand, and gently chop them into small pieces with a sharp knife.

Make sure not to over-chop the basil, as this can release its oils and make it lose its texture. The chopped basil should still be visible in the finished dish, adding a pop of color and freshness to each bite. This attention to detail is what sets apart a good recipe from an exceptional one, and it’s worth taking the time to do it right.

By using 1/4 cup (15g) of chopped fresh basil leaves in this Tomato Basil Penne Pasta recipe, you’ll be creating a dish that is not only delicious but also visually appealing. The combination of flavors and textures will leave your family and friends wanting more, and the bright green color of the basil will add a beautiful pop to any meal.

+ 2 cloves garlic, minced

The ingredients for this delicious Tomato Basil Penne Pasta recipe are quite straightforward and accessible.

You’ll need:

12 oz (340g) penne pasta – a classic Italian pasta shape that pairs perfectly with the creamy tomato sauce.

2 tablespoons olive oil – to sauté the garlic and cook the onions, adding an aromatic depth to the dish.

+ 1 onion, chopped – sweet onions add a lovely caramelized flavor when cooked slowly.

+ 2 cloves garlic, minced – pungent and flavorful, garlic enhances the overall taste experience.

28 oz (794g) can whole peeled tomatoes – the foundation of our tomato sauce, providing natural sweetness and acidity.

1 cup fresh basil leaves – adding freshness and fragrant aroma to each bite.

Grated Parmesan cheese – a classic Italian topping that adds salty depth and richness.

Salt and pepper – adjust to taste for the perfect balance of flavors.

Freshly ground black pepper is essential, as it brings out the natural flavors in all the ingredients without overpowering them.

Additional Ingredients:

When it comes to making a delicious **Tomato Basil Penne Pasta** recipe, having the right ingredients is crucial.

The primary ingredients for this dish include Penne pasta, which should be cooked al dente and drained before mixing with other ingredients.

You’ll also need a variety of fresh tomatoes, such as cherry or grape tomatoes. The size and type of tomato used can affect the flavor and texture of the final dish.

An **onion** should be finely chopped and sautéed in olive oil to bring out its natural sweetness before adding other aromatics.

A clove of garlic is minced and cooked with the onion, allowing both flavors to meld together harmoniously.

The key component of this recipe is a mixture of balsamic vinegar and **olive oil**, which adds depth and richness to the sauce.

For added flavor and nutrition, consider incorporating other ingredients such as diced bell peppers or sliced mushrooms into your dish.

A handful of fresh basil leaves is chopped and added towards the end of cooking, releasing its aromatic oils and adding a fragrant aroma to the pasta.

The amount of basil used can be adjusted according to personal taste preferences.

+ Salt and pepper to taste

To prepare this delicious Tomato Basil Penne Pasta recipe, you’ll need the following ingredients:

• 12 oz (340g) penne pasta
• 3 cups (720ml) cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1/4 cup (15g) fresh basil leaves, chopped
• 2 cloves of garlic, minced
• 1/4 cup (60g) grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Grated mozzarella cheese for serving (optional)

In addition to these ingredients, you’ll also need:

• A large skillet or sauté pan with a lid
• A medium saucepan for boiling the pasta
• A hand blender or immersion blender (optional)
• A cheese grater or Microplane (for Parmesan and mozzarella cheese)

Now that you have all your ingredients ready, let’s talk about salt and pepper to taste.

Salt and pepper are two essential seasonings in this recipe, but they’re used differently. Salt enhances the flavors of the dish, while pepper adds a subtle kick. You can add them at different stages:

• Add salt when cooking the garlic or cherry tomatoes to bring out their natural sweetness.
• Use pepper towards the end of cooking, just before serving, to preserve its flavor and aroma.

Remember that both salt and pepper are a matter of personal preference. Taste as you go and adjust the seasoning accordingly. If you prefer a stronger or milder taste, simply add more or less salt and pepper to suit your taste buds.

+ Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)

The Tomato Basil Penne Pasta Recipe requires a variety of ingredients, which can be categorized into several groups:

Main Ingredients

* 1 pound (450g) penne pasta

* 2 tablespoons (30ml) olive oil

* 4-6 garlic cloves, minced

* 1 can (28 oz/794g) crushed tomatoes

* 1 cup (15g) fresh basil leaves, chopped

Protein and Cheese

* 8 ounces (225g) grilled chicken breast or sautéed shrimp (optional)

* Grated Parmesan cheese (optional), for serving

Seasonings and Spices

• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)

Additional Ingredients

* 1 cup (120g) cherry tomatoes, halved (optional)

* 1/4 cup (15g) chopped fresh parsley or basil leaves (optional)

The Grated Parmesan cheese is an optional ingredient that adds a salty and nutty flavor to the dish. It can be sprinkled on top of the pasta as a garnish, allowing each person to control the amount they use.

Cooking Instructions

Pasta Cooking:

To cook the perfect Tomato Basil Penne Pasta, follow these step-by-step instructions:

Cooking Pasta:

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.

Add 1-2 tablespoons of olive oil to the boiling water to prevent pasta from sticking together.

Once boiling, carefully add 12 oz (340g) of penne pasta to the water.

Cooking Time:

Cook for 8-10 minutes or until al dente. Check for doneness by biting into a piece of pasta. It should still have some firmness in the center.

If overcooked, your penne will be mushy and unpleasant to eat.

Preparation:

1. While the pasta cooks, prepare the sauce ingredients: chop 2 cups of fresh tomatoes (or use 1 can of crushed tomatoes)
2. Mince 3 cloves of garlic and sauté them in a pan with 2 tablespoons of olive oil until fragrant.
3. Add 1 cup of fresh basil leaves, chopped, to the pan and cook for 1-2 minutes, until wilted.

Assembling the Dish:

Once the pasta is cooked, drain it in a colander and return it to the pot. Add the tomato-basil sauce (prepared in step 3) to the pasta and toss everything together.

Add salt, pepper, and any other seasonings you like (such as parmesan cheese) to taste.

Finishing Touches:

Serve immediately and garnish with additional fresh basil leaves if desired.

This Tomato Basil Penne Pasta is a simple yet delicious meal that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion. The combination of flavors and textures will have you coming back for more!

* Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil

To begin with the cooking instructions for our Tomato Basil Penne Pasta Recipe, let’s first focus on bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil.

This is an essential step as it allows us to cook the penne pasta to perfection. To do this, fill a large pot with cold water and add 1-2 tablespoons of salt for every pound of pasta you’re using. The salt will help season the pasta while it cooks and also reduce the amount of starch released during cooking, resulting in a better texture.

Place the pot over high heat on your stovetop and turn the burner to its maximum setting. Bring the water to a rolling boil by waiting for big bubbles to form and rise rapidly to the surface. You can help this process along by occasionally shaking the pot gently or using a long-handled spoon to stir the water.

Once the water has reached a full, vigorous boil, reduce the heat to medium-high to maintain a steady simmer. This is an important step as it helps prevent the pasta from cooking too quickly on the outside while remaining undercooked on the inside.

At this point, you can add the penne pasta to the boiling water and start timing according to package instructions. Generally speaking, penne pasta takes around 8-12 minutes to cook through, but it’s always best to check for doneness by biting into a piece of pasta or using a fork to test its firmness.

* Cook penne pasta according to package instructions until al dente

To cook delicious **penne pasta** for your Tomato Basil Penne Pasta Recipe, follow these simple steps:

First, bring a large pot of salted water to a **boil**. The amount of water needed will depend on the size of your penne pasta package and personal preference. As a general rule, use at least 4-6 quarts of water for every 1 pound of penne pasta.

Once the water is boiling, carefully add the **penne pasta** to the pot in an orderly fashion. Make sure not to overcrowd the pot as this can cause the pasta to stick together during cooking.

Return the water to a _boil_ and then reduce the heat to a simmer. Allow the penne pasta to cook until it reaches the desired level of doneness, which is known as **al dente**. This means that the pasta should still have some firmness or bite when bitten into.

The cooking time will vary depending on the specific type and brand of penne pasta you are using. Generally, however, most brands take between 8-12 minutes to cook until al dente. You can check for doneness by removing a piece of pasta from the water with a slotted spoon or fork and biting into it.

Once your **penne pasta** is cooked to perfection, drain it in a colander under cold running water to stop the cooking process. This step will help prevent overcooking and make your penne pasta more suitable for your Tomato Basil Penne Pasta Recipe.

* Reserve 1 cup of pasta cooking water before draining

Cooking instructions are an essential part of preparing a delicious and satisfying dish like Tomato Basil Penne Pasta Recipe. This recipe, which combines the flavors of fresh tomatoes, fragrant basil, and al dente penne pasta, requires attention to detail and precision in order to bring out the best in its ingredients.

When cooking penne pasta for this recipe, it’s essential to cook it until it reaches an al dente texture. This means that the pasta should be cooked through but still retain a slight firmness or bite. Overcooking can result in mushy pasta that soaks up too much of the flavorful sauce and becomes unappetizing.

Before draining the cooked penne pasta, reserve 1 cup of pasta cooking water. This step is crucial as it allows you to achieve the perfect consistency for your tomato basil sauce. The reserved pasta water can be used to thin out the sauce if needed, making it easier to coat the pasta evenly without becoming too thick or overpowering.

To cook penne pasta, follow these general guidelines: Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil and add 1 cup of dried penne pasta. Cook for about 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pasta reaches an al dente texture. Remove from heat and drain in a colander.

Reserve the pasta cooking water by transferring it into a separate bowl or container. The reserved water should be warm but not hot. This step allows you to avoid wasting any of the starchy water that’s perfect for thickening the sauce without overdoing it.

To prepare the tomato basil sauce, sauté chopped onions and garlic until softened in olive oil. Then add diced fresh tomatoes and cook until they release their juices and start breaking down. Add a pinch of salt and pepper to taste, followed by chopped fresh basil leaves. Simmer for about 10-15 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.

Before serving the Tomato Basil Penne Pasta Recipe, combine cooked penne pasta with the tomato basil sauce in a large mixing bowl or individual serving dishes. Add some grated Parmesan cheese and toss gently to coat the pasta evenly. If needed, add some reserved pasta water to achieve the perfect consistency.

Assembly and Serving

Tomato Basil Sauce Preparation:

To prepare a delicious Tomato Basil Sauce to accompany your penne pasta, follow these steps:

Fresh basil leaves play a crucial role in adding flavor and aroma to this sauce.

Start by gathering 2 cups of fresh basil leaves and rinsing them under cold running water. Pat the leaves dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture.

In a food processor or blender, combine the basil leaves, 1/4 cup of olive oil, and 2 cloves of garlic (minced). Process until the mixture is well combined and the basil is finely chopped.

Add 2 cups of canned crushed tomatoes (preferably San Marzano) to the food processor. Blend the sauce until it reaches your desired consistency – some people like their sauce smooth, while others prefer it chunky.

Transfer the sauce mixture to a large saucepan and add salt, to taste. If you want to enhance the flavor of your sauce, consider adding 1/4 teaspoon of red pepper flakes or 1/4 cup of grated Parmesan cheese.

Simmer the sauce over medium heat for 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally, allowing the flavors to meld together and the sauce to thicken. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.

While the sauce is simmering, cook your penne pasta according to package instructions until it’s al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining the penne.

To assemble the dish, combine the cooked penne pasta with the Tomato Basil Sauce in a large serving bowl or individual plates. If the sauce seems too thick, add some reserved pasta water to achieve your desired consistency.

Toss the pasta and sauce together until well combined, ensuring each bite is coated with the flavorful sauce.

Serve immediately and enjoy! You can garnish the dish with additional fresh basil leaves or grated Parmesan cheese for extra flavor and visual appeal.

+ In a saucepan, combine cherry tomatoes, basil, garlic, salt, and pepper

To prepare a delicious Tomato Basil Penne Pasta Recipe, it’s essential to understand the process of **Assembly and Serving**, which involves bringing all the components together to create a visually appealing and flavorful dish.

The recipe calls for combining cherry tomatoes, basil, garlic, salt, and pepper in a saucepan. This step is crucial as it sets the stage for the assembly of the final product.

When assembling the dish, start by cooking the penne pasta according to package instructions until al dente. This will ensure that the pasta retains its texture and pairs well with the other ingredients.

While the pasta cooks, prepare the saucepan mixture of cherry tomatoes, basil, garlic, salt, and pepper. Heat the mixture over medium heat for about 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together and the tomatoes to release their juices.

Once the pasta is cooked, drain it in a colander and return it to the large pot or serving dish. Add the cherry tomato sauce to the pasta, ensuring that each strand of penne is coated with the flavorful mixture.

To serve, sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese over the top of the pasta, adding an extra burst of flavor and texture to the dish. You can also garnish with additional basil leaves for a pop of color and fragrance.

The Assembly and Serving process is where art meets cooking. By carefully arranging the components, you create a dish that not only tastes amazing but also visually appealing, making it a delight to serve to family and friends.

+ Cook over medium heat for 1015 minutes or until the sauce has thickened slightly

To assemble and serve this delicious Tomato Basil Penne Pasta, first cook the penne pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Then, drain the cooked pasta and return it to the pot.

Add the freshly made tomato sauce to the cooked pasta and toss everything together until the pasta is well coated with the flavorful sauce. This is a crucial step as it allows the flavors of the pasta and sauce to meld together perfectly.

Meanwhile, heat some grated Parmesan cheese in a pan over medium heat for 10-15 minutes or until the cheese has melted and turned golden brown. Stir constantly to prevent burning.

Once the pasta is well coated with the tomato sauce, transfer it to a serving dish and top it with the melted Parmesan cheese and some extra basil leaves if desired.

To serve, place a portion of the Tomato Basil Penne Pasta on each plate, followed by a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese and a few fresh basil leaves. You can also add some garlic bread or a simple green salad to complement this dish perfectly.

Enjoy your delicious homemade Tomato Basil Penne Pasta, made with love and care using the freshest ingredients and traditional cooking techniques!

Combine Pasta and Tomato Basil Sauce:

To assemble and serve the Tomato Basil Penne Pasta, follow these steps:

Pasta Assembly

Cook the penne pasta according to package instructions until it reaches a perfect al dente texture.

Drain the cooked pasta in a colander under cold running water to stop the cooking process and remove excess starch.

Tomato Basil Sauce Preparation

In a separate pan, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium-low heat.

Add 3-4 minced garlic cloves to the oil and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.

Add 2 cups of cherry tomatoes (halved) or 1 can of crushed tomatoes to the pan, stirring occasionally for about 5-7 minutes.

Stir in 1/4 cup of chopped fresh basil leaves and let it simmer for an additional minute.

Combining Pasta and Tomato Basil Sauce

In a large serving dish or individual plates, arrange the cooked penne pasta in a nest-like shape.

Spoon the prepared tomato basil sauce over the pasta, making sure to coat each piece evenly.

Optional Toppings:

• Freshly grated Parmesan cheese (about 1/4 cup per serving)
• Additional chopped basil leaves for garnish
• Sliced red onions or cherry tomatoes for extra flavor and color

Final Touches:

Season the dish with salt, black pepper, and a pinch of sugar (optional) to balance out the flavors.

Cover the dish with aluminum foil or a lid to keep warm for 5-10 minutes before serving.

Finally, serve hot, garnished with additional basil leaves if desired!

+ Add reserved pasta cooking water to the tomato basil sauce if it becomes too thick

To assemble and serve the Tomato Basil Penne Pasta, follow these steps:

Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the Penne pasta according to package instructions until it is al dente. Reserve about 1 cup of the pasta cooking water, then drain the penne.

While the pasta is cooking, heat a couple of tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-low heat. Add a minced shallot or a few cloves of garlic, sautéed until fragrant and softened.

Add the canned crushed tomatoes, balsamic vinegar, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Stir to combine, then bring the sauce to a simmer. Let it cook for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the flavors have melded together.

If the tomato basil sauce becomes too thick during cooking, add some of the reserved pasta cooking water to thin it out. This will help maintain a smooth and saucy consistency.

To serve, place the cooked penne pasta on a plate or in a shallow bowl. Spoon the warmed tomato basil sauce over the top of the pasta, followed by some fresh basil leaves.

Garnish with extra grated Parmesan cheese and a sprinkle of parsley, if desired. Serve immediately, enjoying the flavors and textures of this delicious Tomato Basil Penne Pasta Recipe.

+ Toss cooked penne pasta with the tomato basil sauce

To assemble the dish, start by placing a portion of cooked penne pasta on a plate or serving bowl.

Making sure not to overfill the container, create a bed of pasta that will provide a solid foundation for the remaining components.

Next, place a generous helping of tomato basil sauce alongside the pasta. This can be done in a variety of ways, such as creating a small mound or forming a decorative pattern with the sauce.

Some people also choose to add other ingredients at this stage, including grated Parmesan cheese, chopped fresh basil leaves, or even diced cooked meat or vegetables.

The key is to strike a balance between flavors and textures, so be sure not to overload the pasta with too many toppings.

To finish assembling the dish, sprinkle some additional basil leaves on top of the pasta and sauce. This will add a pop of color and help to reinforce the fresh flavor that the basil brings to the recipe.

Finally, garnish the dish with some extra grated Parmesan cheese and a drizzle of olive oil, if desired.

Now it’s time to serve the tomato basil penne pasta. This can be done immediately after assembly or refrigerated for up to 24 hours before serving.

If you choose to serve the dish cold, simply refrigerate it until chilled through and then assemble just prior to serving.

To toss cooked penne pasta with the tomato basil sauce, start by placing a portion of the pasta in a large bowl or container. Make sure that the pasta is well drained before adding the sauce, as excess moisture can make the dish soggy.

Next, add a generous helping of tomato basil sauce to the pasta and toss until well coated. You may need to use a pair of tongs or a spatula to help distribute the sauce evenly throughout the pasta.

Be gentle when tossing the pasta to avoid breaking it into small pieces. The goal is to combine the pasta and sauce in a way that creates a harmonious balance of flavors and textures.

Once you have tossed the pasta with the tomato basil sauce, transfer it to individual serving plates or bowls. Garnish each plate with some extra basil leaves and grated Parmesan cheese, if desired.

Serve and Garnish:

The process of assembly and serving is an essential step in presenting a dish that is both visually appealing and flavorful, such as the Tomato Basil Penne Pasta recipe. This step involves carefully combining all the prepared ingredients to create a cohesive and harmonious dish.

Assembly typically begins with a base ingredient, which in this case would be the cooked penne pasta. The pasta should be placed on a serving plate or dish, creating a foundation for the other ingredients to follow.

Next, the sauce is added to the pasta, typically at the bottom of the serving dish. This could be the homemade tomato and basil sauce prepared according to the recipe, which adds flavor and moisture to the dish.

Additional toppings or garnishes can then be placed on top of the pasta and sauce, such as additional fresh basil leaves, parmesan cheese shavings, or even some cherry tomatoes halved for added color and texture. These elements add a pop of freshness and visual appeal to the dish, elevating it from mere sustenance to a culinary experience.

The key to successful assembly is balance and restraint. Too many toppings can overpower the flavor and simplicity of the pasta, while too few may make the dish look bare or lacking in depth. By carefully selecting and placing each element, you create a harmonious whole that showcases the beauty and taste of your Tomato Basil Penne Pasta.

+ Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese (if using)

To assemble and serve the Tomato Basil Penne Pasta, start by cooking the penne pasta according to the package instructions until it’s al dente.

Drain the cooked penne pasta in a colander and return it to the large saucepan or serving dish.

Add the prepared tomato basil sauce over the top of the cooked penne pasta. You can use a wooden spoon to gently fold the sauce into the pasta, making sure everything is well coated.

To add some extra flavor and texture, sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese over the top of the pasta. If you’re not using Parmesan cheese, feel free to omit it or substitute with another hard cheese such as Pecorino Romano.

Place the assembled penne pasta under a low broiler for 2-3 minutes to melt the cheese and warm up the sauce, if desired.

Once the pasta is hot and the cheese is melted, remove it from the oven and serve immediately. Garnish with extra basil leaves or a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese, if desired.

To make this dish even more impressive, consider adding some crispy garlic bread on the side. Simply slice a baguette into thick slices, drizzle with olive oil, and sprinkle with minced garlic. Bake in the oven until crispy, then serve alongside the penne pasta.

Additional Tips:

• Make sure to reserve some of the pasta water before draining it. This starchy water can be used to thin out the sauce if it becomes too thick while reheating.
• To add an extra burst of flavor, consider adding some cherry tomatoes or sliced olives on top of the pasta along with the Parmesan cheese.