5 Basil Tomato Sauce for Pasta

By AislePrompt Test Kitchen · Reviewed by AislePrompt Editorial · ·

A fresh, vibrant sauce made with a perfect 2:5 ratio of tomato paste to fresh basil, simmered to create a rich, aromatic base for pasta. This italian-inspired pasta ready in about 13 minutes blends tomato paste, finely chopped fresh basil, vegetable broth into a versatile sauce that lifts everything from grain bowls and roasted vegetables to grilled proteins — a small-batch staple worth keeping in the fridge. Each serving lands at about 110 calories and feeds 4, so a small batch covers several meals across the week without taking over the fridge. Tap "Plan a meal with the AI" below to drop this recipe into your week and send the ingredients straight to Instacart. Nutrition values are approximate, calculated from USDA FoodData Central (fdc.nal.usda.gov) — verify against ingredient labels for any health-driven dietary plan.

★ 3.8 (9 ratings) Prep: 5 min Cook: 8 min Serves 4 Italian cuisine 110 cal/serving
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Ingredients

Instructions

  1. Step 1: Heat 1 tbsp olive oil in a small saucepan over medium-low heat. Add 1 minced garlic clove and cook for 1 minute until fragrant, stirring constantly.
  2. Step 2: Stir in 2 tbsp tomato paste and 1/4 cup vegetable broth, cooking for 2 minutes while scraping the pan to dissolve paste.
  3. Step 3: Add 5 tbsp finely chopped fresh basil, 1/4 tsp salt, and 1/8 tsp black pepper. Simmer gently for 5 minutes until sauce thickens and basil wilts, stirring occasionally.
  4. Step 4: Remove from heat and let rest for 2 minutes to allow flavors to meld. Sauce will be slightly thickened and glossy.
  5. Step 5: Toss with 8 oz cooked pasta, adding reserved pasta water if needed to achieve a silky coating.

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Frequently asked questions

How long does 5 Basil Tomato Sauce for Pasta take to make?

Total time is about 13 minutes (5 min prep + 8 min cook). A small batch typically covers several meals in the week — store as the recipe directs.

How do I store leftover 5 Basil Tomato Sauce for Pasta?

Transfer to an airtight jar and refrigerate for up to 5–7 days. Most sauces freeze well for up to 2 months — portion into small containers or freezer bags so you can thaw only what you need. Stir before serving; cream- or yogurt-based sauces may separate on standing.

Can I substitute ingredients in 5 Basil Tomato Sauce for Pasta?

Yes — most ingredients in this recipe have flexible swaps. For oil, use any neutral high-smoke-point oil (avocado, grapeseed, refined coconut). For aromatics, dried herbs at ⅓ the volume of fresh work in a pinch. The full ingredient list is shoppable on Instacart so you can see substitutes in real time.

How do I scale 5 Basil Tomato Sauce for Pasta for a different number of people?

The recipe is written for 4 servings. Multiply each ingredient by (your serving target / 4). Cook time stays roughly the same up to 2x; for 3-4x batches, switch from a skillet to a sheet pan or stockpot so the food isn't crowded — overcrowding steams instead of browns.

What goes well with 5 Basil Tomato Sauce for Pasta?

Italian pasta like this pair well with a simple grain (rice, couscous, or crusty bread), a quick salad with acid (lemon vinaigrette, pickled onions), and a pan sauce or yogurt-based dip. Tap "Plan a meal with the AI" to get specific side suggestions.

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