This vibrant Tri-Color Pasta is a comforting, home-style Italian favorite that is quick to prepare and delicious to eat. The dish relies on a simple yet flavorful sauce made by simmering crushed tomatoes with sautéed onions and garlic. The tri-color pasta adds a beautiful visual appeal, while the fresh basil tossed in at the end provides a bright, aromatic finish. Perfect for a busy weeknight dinner or a casual family meal, this recipe is easy to customize. ItâÂÂs light enough for a summer evening but satisfying enough for cooler days. Serve it with a simple green salad and crusty bread for a complete meal.
Tri-Color Pasta
Description
This vibrant Tri-Color Pasta is a comforting, home-style Italian favorite that is quick to prepare and delicious to eat. The dish relies on a simple yet flavorful sauce made by simmering crushed tomatoes with saut&# 195;©ed onions and garlic. The tri-color pasta adds a beautiful visual appeal, while the fresh basil tossed in at the end provides a bright, aromatic finish. Perfect for a busy weeknight dinner or a casual family meal, this recipe is easy to customize. ItâÂÂs light enough for a summer evening but satisfying enough for cooler days. Serve it with a simple green salad and crusty bread for a complete meal.Ingredients
Directions
-
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
-
Meanwhile, in a large skillet, heat 1/4 cup of olive oil over medium heat.
-
Add the chopped onion and sauté until tender, about 5-7 minutes, but do not let it brown.
-
Add the crushed garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.
-
Stir in the canned tomatoes with their juice, breaking up the tomatoes with a spoon.
-
Reduce heat to medium-low and simmer the sauce, stirring occasionally, until slightly thickened, about 25 minutes.
-
Season the sauce with salt and black pepper to taste.
-
While the sauce simmers, cook the pasta in the boiling water according to package directions until al dente.
-
Drain the pasta well and place it in a large serving bowl.
-
Stir the remaining tablespoon of olive oil into the tomato sauce.
-
Pour the sauce over the drained pasta.
-
Add the chopped fresh basil and toss everything together until well combined.
-
Serve immediately, sprinkling with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Nutrition Facts
Servings 4
- Amount Per Serving
- Calories 554.5kcal
- % Daily Value *
- Total Fat 54.9g85%
- Saturated Fat 7.2g36%
- Cholesterol 0.0mg0%
- Sodium 4.8mg1%
- Total Carbohydrate 16.6g6%
- Dietary Fiber 5.6g23%
- Sugars 2.9g
- Protein 6.4g13%
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.
Note
Vegan Option: This recipe is naturally vegan if you omit the Parmesan cheese. You can substitute with nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor without the dairy.
Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of water or broth to refresh the sauce.
Variations: Add sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or zucchini to the sauce for extra vegetables. For a richer sauce, stir in a tablespoon of tomato paste while simmering.
Tip: If using fresh tomatoes instead of canned, blanch and peel them first, then chop. You may need to simmer the sauce longer to reduce excess moisture.
