Healthy And Creamy Tomato Basil Pasta Sauce Recipe

This creamy tomato basil sauce is my go-to comfort food because it’s the perfect blend of fresh, bold flavors and indulgent creaminess that just hits differently. Plus, it’s got that homemade touch that makes me feel like a culinary genius while being super easy to whip up on a weeknight!

I adore the flavor and nutritional balance of my Healthy and Creamy Tomato Basil Pasta Sauce. This sauce is vivid and really shines thanks to the use of olive oil, an ample amount of finely chopped onion, a not-so-quiet amount of minced garlic, and loads of crushed tomatoes.

It would be easy for me to just finish right there, with a tomato sauce that already feels pretty hearty and wholesome. But now let’s deepen the sauce’s vibes with the fantastic flavor of fresh basil.

Toss in a splash of balsamic vinegar for acidity and depth, and then add a little bit of cream (I use heavy cream) to make it rich and, well, creamy.

Ingredients

Olive oil contains an abundance of beneficial monounsaturated fats and is an enriched source of flavor.

Onions: Imparts sweetness and complexity; rich in antioxidants.

Garlic: Offers a sharp, delectable aroma; supercharges the immune system.

Tomatoes that have been crushed: They are rich in essential nutrients; they provide the sauce base.

Basil: An herb imbued with aroma; an ingredient that adds a certain freshness and a bright, bold flavor.

Cream: Provides creaminess and balances the acidity of the tomatoes.

Tangy sweet balsamic vinegar; a complexity influencer sauce enhancer.

Oregano, when dried, has an earthy aroma that is a natural accompaniment to dishes that are tomato-based.

Ingredient Quantities

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 can (28 ounces) crushed tomatoes
• 1/2 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
• 1/4 cup heavy cream
• Salt to taste
• Black pepper to taste
• 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
• 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese (optional)

Instructions

1. Warm the olive oil in a large saucepan over medium heat. Finely chop the onion and add it to the pan. Sauté the onion until it becomes translucent, which should take about 5 minutes.

2. In a skillet, add the minced garlic to the onion and cook for another 1-2 minutes, stirring frequently, until the garlic is fragrant.

3. Add the can of crushed tomatoes, stirring to mix with the onion and garlic.

4. Combine the balsamic vinegar, dried oregano, and optional red pepper flakes. Stir well to incorporate the spices.

5. To taste, salt and black pepper should be added to the sauce. Mix thoroughly.

6. Reduce the heat and allow the sauce to simmer for 15-20 minutes, stirring now and then. This permits the meld to occur among the various flavors of the sauce.

7. Incorporate the heavy cream into the sauce, and allow it to cook for a final 5 minutes. This will give you a creamy sauce, as opposed to a not-so-creamy sauce.

8. Include the freshly minced basil leaves in the sauce, mixing them in just until they wilt.

9. If you are using it, mix the grated Parmesan cheese into the sauce until it is fully melted.

10. Take the saucepan off the heat and pour the luscious tomato basil cream sauce over the pasta of your choice. Enjoy right then and there; better to eat it hot than to let it cool, and when it comes to enjoying your luscious hot sauce, you can’t really go wrong.

Equipment Needed

1. Large saucepan
2. Skillet
3. Cutting board
4. Knife
5. Stirring spoon
6. Measuring spoons
7. Measuring cup
8. Can opener
9. Grater (if using Parmesan cheese)

FAQ

• Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned?Indeed, it is possible to employ fresh tomatoes. For a more pronounced flavor, consider blanching, peeling, and crushing them.
• Is there a non-dairy substitute for heavy cream?Coconut milk and cashew cream provide non-dairy alternatives that maintain the creamy texture of this dish.
• How can I make this sauce spicier?Adjust the amount of red pepper flakes to raise the heat level to your liking.
• Can I make this sauce ahead of time?Indeed, it can be prepared in advance and kept in an airtight container in the fridge for as long as 3 days.
• What type of pasta pairs well with this sauce?This sauce complements spaghetti, penne, or any pasta that holds sauce well.
• How do I store leftovers?Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container inside the refrigerator for 3 days or in the freezer for 3 months.
• Can I omit the balsamic vinegar?Certainly, you can leave it out, but it contributes a depth of flavor that boosts the sauce.

Substitutions and Variations

Substitute avocado oil or grapeseed oil for olive oil.
Substitute heavy cream with coconut milk or a plant-based cream for a vegan option.
Basil leaves, fresh: Use 1 tablespoon dried basil.
Balsamic vinegar: Use apple cider vinegar or red wine vinegar in its place.
Parmesan cheese: For a dairy-free alternative, replace with nutritional yeast.

Pro Tips

1. Enhance the Garlic Flavor To deepen the garlic flavor, gently sauté the minced garlic on its own for about 30 seconds before adding the onion. Ensure the garlic doesn’t burn by keeping a close watch and reducing the heat if necessary.

2. Balsamic Vinegar Control Add the balsamic vinegar slowly and taste as you go, especially if you’re not a big fan of sweetness. Adjust the amount to suit your personal taste preference.

3. Thickening Tips If you prefer a thicker sauce, allow the crushed tomatoes to simmer longer, or consider adding a tablespoon of tomato paste during the simmering process.

4. Basil Freshness Add the fresh basil leaves at the very end to keep their flavor vibrant and fresh. Wilted basil will ensure the sauce retains its aromatic qualities.

5. Cheese Melting When adding Parmesan cheese, ensure the sauce is hot enough to melt the cheese properly. Stir until smooth to avoid clumps and enhance creaminess.