Creamy Tomato Basil Pasta Sonata – Tomato Basil Tempo

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The Creamy Tomato Basil Pasta Sonata, a modern twist on classic Italian flavors, offers a harmonious blend of velvety cashew cream, ripe tomatoes, and aromatic basil atop al dente pasta. This recipe celebrates the simplicity and richness of ingredients, embodying the essence of Italian ‘cucina povera’ with a fresh, indulgent twist. It’s a testament to the timeless allure of Italian cuisine, focusing on fresh, simple ingredients and comforting, robust flavors.

Prep Time

15 minutes (not including cashew soaking time)

Cooking Time

20 minutes

Servings

4 servings

Ingredients

  • 1 cup raw cashews (150g)
  • 1 cup almond milk (240ml)
  • 2 ripe tomatoes, diced (about 2 cups or 400g)
  • A generous handful of fresh basil leaves (about 1/2 cup or 20g)
  • 16 oz penne pasta (450g), cooked al dente according to package directions
  • 2 tablespoons tomato paste (30g)
  • A pinch of red pepper flakes
  • 1/4 cup freshly grated parmesan cheese (25g)
  • Pasta water to thin the sauce as needed
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Method

  • Begin by soaking the raw cashews in water overnight or for a minimum of two hours. Drain and rinse.
  • Blend the soaked cashews with almond milk in a blender until smooth to create the cashew cream. Set aside.
  • Cook the penne pasta according to package directions until al dente. Reserve some pasta water for the sauce, then drain and set aside.
  • In a large pot, heat a drizzle of olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté until golden.
  • Add the diced tomatoes to the pot and cook until they break down into a chunky sauce.
  • Stir in the tomato paste, red pepper flakes, and a handful of chopped fresh basil, cooking for an additional 2-3 minutes.
  • Lower the heat and add the cashew cream to the tomato mixture, stirring until fully incorporated. If the sauce is too thick, add reserved pasta water until the desired consistency is reached. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
  • Add the cooked penne to the sauce, tossing to coat evenly.
  • Serve hot, garnished with freshly grated Parmesan cheese and more fresh basil.

This Creamy Tomato Basil Pasta is the perfect blend of creamy, tangy, and aromatic, offering a comforting yet sophisticated meal. With its simple preparation and rich, wholesome ingredients, it stands as a delicious tribute to the heart of Italian cooking. It’s a dish that’s sure to please both the palate and the soul, making it a must-try for any pasta lover.

Nutritional Information (Approx)

  • Calories: 413 kcal
  • Carbohydrates: 52g
  • Protein: 14g
  • Fat: 17g
  • Saturated Fat: 10g
  • Dietary Fiber: Approx. 5g
  • Sodium: Based on salt usage, estimate around 200mg

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