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Gemelli Pasta with Tomatoes, Basil and Garlic is one of my favorite recipes not only because it comes together quickly but it’s full of simple, fresh and delicious ingredients…
This recipe is one of my favorites! It’s a recipe that’s so easy to prepare and is perfect for a busy weeknight dinner when you don’t have a lot of time and need to get something out on the table quickly.
Why This Recipe Works
- It comes together quickly and it’s so simple!
- I love taking a great pasta and using it as a base and adding to it the fresh flavors of food such as, tomatoes, basil, and lots of garlic, plus a good extra virgin olive oil and freshly grated parmesan cheese.
Ingredient Notes
See recipe box below for ingredient amounts and full recipe instructions.
- Pasta: I used Gemelli pasta. Just about any pasta will do here, so use your favorite.
- Olive Oil: I use extra virgin olive oil in this recipe. Extra virgin olive oil is the least processed form of olive oil. It is an unrefined oil and the highest-quality olive oil you can buy. Because of the way extra virgin olive oil is made, it retains more true olive taste. It also contains more of the vitamins and minerals found in olives. It’s my favorite type of olive oil to use but you may use a lighter olive oil instead.
- Garlic: Finely chopped garlic adds quite a lot of flavor to this dish. If you don’t have fresh, use 1/8 teaspoon of garlic powder.
- Tomatoes: I used a cup of cherry tomatoes. You can use 1 large tomato, chopped instead.
- Parmesan Cheese: Sprinkle on top of the cooked pasta and tomatoes.
- Basil leaves: I used 5-6 leaves.
How To Make This Recipe
- Cook pasta according to the package directions. Drain and return to the pot. Set aside.
- In a large skillet, heat the olive oil.
- Add the garlic and tomatoes. Sauté for about 4 minutes.
- Pour the contents of the skillet into the pasta. Stir well.
- Mix in the parmesan cheese and top with fresh basil.
Expert Tips
- I used whole wheat Gemelli in this recipe, but feel free to use whatever kind of pasta you prefer.
- Feel free to add a protein such as, grilled chicken, rotisserie chicken, or even ground turkey or beef.
Serving Suggestions
Enjoy!
Gemelli Pasta with Tomatoes, Basil and Garlic
Gemelli Pasta with Tomatoes, Basil and Garlic is one of my favorite recipes not only because it comes together quickly but it's full of simple, fresh and delicious ingredients...
Ingredients
- 1/2 pound whole wheat pasta (I used gemelli, but use what you prefer)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1-2 cloves garlic , sliced thinly
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes , sliced in half
- 1 cup parmesan cheese , freshly grated
- 5-6 leaves basil , torn
Instructions
- Cook pasta according to package directions. Drain and return to the pot. Set aside.
- In a large skillet, heat the olive oil.
- Add the garlic and tomatoes and sauté for about 4 minutes.
- Pour the contents of the skillet into the pasta and stir well.
- Mix in the parmesan cheese and top with the pieces of fresh basil.
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