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To make this delicious one-pot creamy tomato basil pasta, you will need: - 12 ounces pasta (penne or fusilli) - 1 can (14.5 ounces) diced tomatoes, with juice - 1 can (15 ounces) coconut milk - 2 cups vegetable broth - 1 small onion, finely chopped - 3 cloves garlic, minced - 1 teaspoon dried Italian herbs (oregano, basil) - 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (adjust for spice) - 1 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped - 1 tablespoon olive oil - Salt and pepper to taste - 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional for serving) You can easily change this dish by adding some optional ingredients: - Spinach or kale for extra greens - Cherry tomatoes for a fresh burst - Cooked chicken or shrimp for protein - Mushrooms for a hearty bite - Lemon zest for a zestier flavor If you need to swap ingredients, here are some ideas: - Use almond milk or soy milk instead of coconut milk. - Swap vegetable broth for chicken broth for added flavor. - Use fresh herbs if you have them, like fresh oregano or basil. - Use nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan for a vegan option. - Any pasta shape works well, so feel free to get creative! Gather all your ingredients before starting. This makes cooking smooth and easy. You will need pasta, diced tomatoes, coconut milk, vegetable broth, onion, garlic, herbs, red pepper flakes, basil, olive oil, salt, and pepper. You can also have Parmesan cheese ready if you want to use it. 1. Heat the Olive Oil: In a large pot, warm the olive oil over medium heat. 2. Sauté the Onion and Garlic: Add the chopped onion and minced garlic. Cook them until the onion turns soft and clear, which takes about 3-4 minutes. 3. Add the Main Ingredients: Pour in the diced tomatoes with their juice, coconut milk, and vegetable broth. Also, add dried Italian herbs and red pepper flakes. Mix it all well. 4. Bring to a Simmer: Let the mixture heat until it starts to simmer gently. 5. Cook the Pasta: Add your pasta to the pot. Make sure it is fully submerged in the liquid. 6. Cover and Simmer: Put a lid on the pot. Let it cook on low heat for 12-15 minutes. Stir it now and then to keep the pasta from sticking. 7. Finish the Dish: Once the pasta is al dente, add the chopped basil. Season with salt and pepper. If the sauce needs thickening, let it simmer uncovered for a few more minutes. 8. Serve: If you like, top with grated Parmesan cheese for extra flavor. - Check the Pasta Frequently: Stir often while it cooks. This helps keep it from clumping. - Adjust Liquid as Needed: If the sauce is too thin, let it simmer longer. If too thick, add a splash of broth. - Taste Test: Always taste the pasta before serving. This ensures it has the right texture and flavor. With these steps and tips, you’ll create a creamy and delicious dish every time! To boost flavor, always start by sautéing the onion and garlic in olive oil. This step creates a rich base for your pasta. Cook them until the onion turns soft and clear. Use medium heat to avoid burning. Adding dried Italian herbs early helps release their oils. This makes the dish taste better. The canned tomatoes bring sweetness and acidity. They add depth to your sauce. If you want more heat, add more red pepper flakes. Start with half a teaspoon, then taste. You can always add more, but you can't take it out. For a milder dish, skip the flakes or reduce the amount. Adding a splash of coconut milk can also tone down spice. Fresh basil adds flavor without heat. Stir in some chopped basil for a fresh taste. One-pot meals save time and cleanup. Stir your pasta often while it cooks. This keeps it from sticking together. Make sure to cover the pot while simmering to lock in heat. If the sauce gets too thick, add a bit more broth. For creamier pasta, stir in more coconut milk at the end. Serve your pasta right away for the best taste and texture. {{image_2}} You can make this dish vegetarian by skipping the cheese. Use nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan for a cheesy flavor. If you want a vegan option, just avoid the cheese. You can also use vegetable broth to keep it plant-based. While I love using penne or fusilli, feel free to get creative. Spaghetti, farfalle, or even rotini work well. Each shape holds sauce differently, giving you a unique taste. Just adjust cooking time based on the pasta you choose. Add veggies like spinach or bell peppers for more color and nutrition. You can toss in some mushrooms for a hearty touch. For extra flavor, consider adding olives or sun-dried tomatoes. A squeeze of lemon juice can add brightness too. To keep your One-Pot Creamy Tomato Basil Pasta fresh, store it in an airtight container. Allow the pasta to cool to room temperature before sealing. This helps prevent moisture buildup, which can cause spoilage. You can keep it in the fridge for up to three days. If you want to store it longer, consider freezing it. When you're ready to eat the leftovers, reheat the pasta gently. You can use a microwave-safe bowl and cover it with a damp paper towel. Heat in short bursts, stirring in between. Alternatively, heat it on the stove over low heat. Add a splash of vegetable broth or water if it seems dry. Stir until it’s warmed through. The shelf life of this pasta is about three days in the fridge. If you freeze it, it will last for about two months. To freeze, place the pasta in a freezer-safe container. Make sure to label it with the date. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw it in the fridge overnight. Reheat as described above for the best results. Yes, you can use almond milk or oat milk instead of coconut milk. Both options will give a different flavor. Almond milk is nutty and light, while oat milk is creamy. Choose the one you prefer. If you want a richer taste, try heavy cream. To make this dish gluten-free, use gluten-free pasta. Many brands offer great options, like chickpea or brown rice pasta. Just make sure to check the package for cooking times. This way, you can enjoy the same creamy goodness without gluten. You can add cooked chicken, shrimp, or sausage for extra protein. If you want a vegetarian option, try adding beans or lentils. Tofu is also a great choice. Just stir it in when you add the pasta to warm it through. Yes, you can prepare this dish ahead of time. Cook it as directed, then let it cool completely. Store it in the fridge in an airtight container. When you’re ready to eat, just reheat it on the stove. You may need to add a splash of broth to loosen it up. This post covered the key ingredients and steps to make a delicious pasta dish. You learned how to adjust flavors, try new pasta shapes, and ensure perfect cooking. I hope these tips inspire you to create your own tasty meals. Remember, cooking is fun and open to exploration. Don’t hesitate to experiment with ingredients and techniques. Happy cooking!

One-Pot Creamy Tomato Basil Pasta

Indulge in the flavors of One-Pot Creamy Tomato Basil Pasta, a delicious recipe that brings together pasta, diced tomatoes, and coconut milk for a creamy delight! This easy dish is not only quick to prepare but also packed with fresh basil and Italian herbs for a burst of flavor. Perfect for weeknight dinners, click through to explore this simple recipe that will impress your family and friends!
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Ingredients
  

12 ounces pasta (penne or fusilli)

1 can (14.5 ounces) diced tomatoes, with juice

1 can (15 ounces) coconut milk

2 cups vegetable broth

1 small onion, finely chopped

3 cloves garlic, minced

1 teaspoon dried Italian herbs (oregano, basil)

1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (adjust for spice)

1 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped

1 tablespoon olive oil

Salt and pepper to taste

1 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional for serving)

Instructions
 

In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic; sauté until the onion is translucent (about 3-4 minutes).

    Add the diced tomatoes (with juice), coconut milk, vegetable broth, dried Italian herbs, and red pepper flakes to the pot. Stir until combined.

      Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, then add the pasta. Stir to ensure the pasta is submerged in the liquid.

        Cover the pot and let it simmer on low heat for about 12-15 minutes, or until the pasta is al dente, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.

          Once the pasta is cooked, stir in the chopped basil and season with salt and pepper to taste. If the sauce is too thin, let it simmer uncovered for a few more minutes until it thickens to your desired consistency.

            For a richer flavor, serve with grated Parmesan cheese on top (optional).

              Prep Time: 10 minutes | Total Time: 25 minutes | Servings: 4

                - Presentation Tips: Serve the pasta in deep bowls, garnished with extra basil leaves and a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese for a vibrant touch.