Basilico pasta sauce is an Italian staple. Made from very few ingredients, it is often used to create incredibly simple and delicious Italian meals.
However, if you’re looking to elevate your dish a little, there are several ingredients you might consider including in your next pasta dish to really take your cooking to the next level.
What is basilico pasta sauce?
Basilico pasta sauce contains only a handful of ingredients, including:
● Tomatoes
● Onion
● Garlic
● Basil
● Oil
● Salt
● Sugar
These ingredients are simmered at a very low heat for a prolonged period of time to really let the flavours caramelise and come together.
Meals to serve with basilico pasta sauce
Basilico pasta sauce can be served simply with freshly cooked spaghetti and a smattering of parmesan cheese. Alternatively, you might choose to use it in any of the following recipes to really impress friends and family.
Vegetarian spaghetti
A classic meal that vegetarians and meat lovers alike will appreciate. Serves 4.
Ingredients:
● 400 g dry pasta
● Olive oil
● Onion, diced
● 4 cloves garlic, peeled and diced
● 1 capsicum, diced
● 1 zucchini, diced
● 200g mushrooms, finely sliced
● Jar of basilico pasta sauce
● Parmesan, to serve.
● Fresh basil, to serve.
Method:
1. Bring a pot of salted water to the boil and cook pasta according to packet instructions.
2. Meanwhile, heat a dash of olive oil in a medium sized saucepan. Add the diced onion and garlic and cook until transparent and fragrant.
3. Add the capsicum, zucchini, and mushrooms. Cook, stirring constantly, until vegetables are softened.
4. Add the jar of basilico pasta sauce. Stir well.
5. Drain the cooked pasta, reserving one cup of the pasta water.
6. Add the pasta water and the sauce to the cooked pasta. Mix until the pasta is well coated.
7. Serve topped with parmesan and fresh basil. Enjoy!
Prawn pasta
If you’re searching for a light seafood pasta, you’ve found what you’re looking for. Serves 4.
Ingredients:
● 400 g dry pasta
● 30 prawns, peeled and deveined
● 1 onion, diced
● Olive oil
● Salt and pepper
● Jar of basilico pasta sauce
● Fresh basil, to serve.
Method:
1. Bring a pot of salted water to the boil and cook pasta according to packet instructions.
2. Heat a few tablespoons of olive oil in a saucepan.
3. Add the onion and cook until fragrant and translucent.
4. Add the prawns to the pan.
5. Cook, stirring constantly, until cooked through.
6. Add the basilico pasta sauce and allow the mixture to simmer for a few minutes, stirring constantly.
7. Drain the cooked pasta. Return it to the pot and add the prawn mixture.
8. Stir until the pasta is well coated.
9. Serve topped with basil and a sprinkle of salt and pepper. Enjoy!
As you can see, the simple flavours of basilico pasta sauce make it an excellent starting point for a variety of Italian-inspired dishes. Have fun experimenting with this classic ingredient and see what wonderful recipes you can discover.
