Ingredients with Measurements:
- 1 pound Mottolina pasta
- 4 medium-sized tomatoes, chopped
- 1/2 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Special equipment needed:
- Large pot
- Colander
- Large skillet
Step-by-step instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the Mottolina pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente.
2. While the pasta is cooking, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté until fragrant.
3. Add the chopped tomatoes to the skillet and cook for 5-7 minutes until they start to break down and release their juices.
4. Add the chopped basil to the skillet and stir to combine. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes.
5. Drain the cooked pasta in a colander and add it to the skillet with the tomato and basil sauce. Toss to combine.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese.
- Time:
Preparation time: 10 minutes
- Cooking time: 20 minutes
Temperature:
- Medium heat
Serving size:
- 4 servings
Nutritional information:
- Calories: 450
- Fat: 18g
- Carbohydrates: 60g
- Protein: 12g
Substitutions for ingredients:
- Mottolina pasta can be substituted with any other short pasta such as penne or fusilli.
- Fresh basil can be substituted with dried basil, but use only 1 tablespoon.
Variations:
- Add cooked chicken or shrimp to the skillet for a protein boost.
- Use cherry tomatoes instead of chopped tomatoes for a sweeter flavor.
- Add red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.
Tips and tricks:
- Reserve some pasta water before draining to add to the sauce if it's too thick.
- Use high-quality olive oil for the best flavor.
- Don't overcook the tomatoes, they should still have some texture.
Storage instructions:
- Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating instructions:
- Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop with a splash of water to loosen the sauce.
Presentation ideas:
- Serve in a large pasta bowl and garnish with fresh basil leaves.
Garnishes:
- Fresh basil leaves
- Grated Parmesan cheese
Pairings:
- Serve with a side salad and garlic bread.
Suggested side dishes:
- Caesar salad
- Caprese salad
- Garlic bread
Troubleshooting advice:
- If the sauce is too thin, simmer it for a few more minutes to reduce it.
- If the sauce is too thick, add some reserved pasta water to thin it out.
Food safety advice:
- Make sure to cook the pasta and sauce to the recommended temperature to avoid any foodborne illnesses.
Food history:
- Mottolina pasta is a type of short pasta that originates from Italy.
Flavor profiles:
- This dish has a fresh and bright flavor from the tomatoes and basil, with a hint of garlic and Parmesan cheese.
Serving suggestions:
- Serve hot as a main dish.
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Region: Italian