Easy Weeknight Rigatoni with Garlic & Fresh Basil

This easy weeknight recipe comes together quickly with an easy homemade sauce that is restaurant quality without the price.  My rigatoni recipe was inspired by the large amount of basil that I had growing in my greenhouse in the middle of October.  I decided to start using it up before the really cold weather came along.

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and while waiting for the water to boil, thinly slice 2 cloves of garlic (Slice, do not chop or mince).  Chiffonade 1/4 cup of basil (that’s a fancy word for rolling up and thinly slicing the basil leaves).  Also have some additional basil for garnish.  Open 1 28 oz. can of tomato puree and 1 14.5 oz. can of diced tomatoes.

Cook a 1 lb. box of rigatoni according to package instructions.  In the meantime, put 4 tablespoons of good olive oil into another pot large enough to hold the pasta (you need 4 tablespoons because it will also go into the sauce).  Heat the oil on low and add the sliced garlic and cook gently, only until fragrant, do not brown.  Next, add the tomato puree, diced tomatoes, basil, and a pinch of red pepper flakes.  Raise the heat and bring to a boil and then simmer for 10 min.  After 10 min, turn off the heat and add 1/2 cup of grated parmesan cheese and salt and pepper to taste.

Drain your pasta when it is al dente or as you like it, but do not overcook.  Add the pasta to the pot with the sauce and toss to cover.  Serve with a parmesan cheese and basil to garnish.  A side salad and some garlic bread will make a beautiful meal.  This pasta dish tastes so fresh, you are going to love it.  Enjoy and happy cooking!

Prep Time: 15 min.                                                          Cooking Time: 25 min.

Difficulty: Easy                                                                  Servings: 4 – 6

Ingredients:

1 lb. Box Rigatoni

Olive Oil 4 Tablespoons

2 cloves garlic thinly sliced

Fresh Basil 1/4 cup Chiffonade plus some for garnish 

Red Pepper Flakes (a pinch or to taste)

Parmesan Cheese 1/2 cup plus more to sprinkle on ea. serving