Ciriola with Tomato and Basil Sauce

Ingredients

• 250g (8.8oz) Ciriola pasta 250g (8.8oz) Ciriola pasta
• 4 ripe tomatoes, diced 4 ripe tomatoes, diced
• 3 cloves of garlic, minced 3 cloves of garlic, minced
• 1/4 cup (60ml) extra virgin olive oil 1/4 cup (60ml) extra virgin olive oil
• 1/4 cup (60ml) tomato paste 1/4 cup (60ml) tomato paste
• 1/2 cup (120ml) vegetable broth 1/2 cup (120ml) vegetable broth
• 1/4 cup (15g) fresh basil leaves, chopped 1/4 cup (15g) fresh basil leaves, chopped
• Salt and pepper to taste Salt and pepper to taste
• Grated Parmesan cheese for garnish Grated Parmesan cheese for garnish

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 380 kcal / 1590 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 14g, 2g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 54g, 6g
• Protein: 10g
• Fiber: 4g
• Salt: 1g

Preparation

1. 1.
   Cook the Ciriola pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. 2.
   In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté until fragrant.
3. 3.
   Add the diced tomatoes and tomato paste to the skillet. Cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
4. 4.
   Pour in the vegetable broth and simmer for another 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
5. 5.
   Stir in the chopped basil leaves and season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. 6.
   Add the cooked Ciriola pasta to the skillet and toss until well coated with the sauce.
7. 7.
   Serve the Ciriola pasta hot, garnished with grated Parmesan cheese.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Tomatoes — Choose ripe and flavorful tomatoes for the best taste. If fresh tomatoes are not available, you can use canned diced tomatoes as a substitute.
• Basil — Use fresh basil leaves for a vibrant and aromatic flavor. If you don't have fresh basil, you can use dried basil, but reduce the quantity by half.

Tips & Tricks

• For a spicier kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce.
• To enhance the flavor, drizzle a little balsamic glaze over the finished dish.
• For a heartier meal, add sautéed mushrooms or grilled vegetables to the pasta.
• If you prefer a smoother sauce, you can blend the cooked tomato mixture before adding the pasta.
• Leftovers can be refrigerated and enjoyed the next day. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave.

Serving advice

Serve the Ciriola pasta as a main course accompanied by a fresh green salad and crusty Italian bread. It pairs well with a glass of red wine, such as Chianti or Sangiovese.

Presentation advice

Plate the Ciriola pasta neatly on individual dishes, ensuring that the vibrant tomato and basil sauce coats the pasta evenly. Sprinkle a generous amount of grated Parmesan cheese on top for an appealing finishing touch.