Filipino-American Style Tomato Pasta

Ingredients

In this Filipino-American adaptation, we incorporate Filipino flavors and ingredients to the traditional Greek Manestra. The addition of garlic, onions, and fish sauce enhances the umami taste of the dish, while still maintaining the essence of the original Greek recipe. The use of Filipino herbs and spices adds a unique twist to the flavor profile, creating a fusion dish that celebrates both cultures. We alse have the original recipe for Greek Manestra, so you can check it out.

• 250g (8.8 oz) pasta 250g (8.8 oz) pasta
• 2 tablespoons olive oil 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 4 cloves garlic, minced 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 onion, finely chopped 1 onion, finely chopped
• 400g (14 oz) canned diced tomatoes 400g (14 oz) canned diced tomatoes
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste 2 tablespoons tomato paste
• 1 teaspoon fish sauce 1 teaspoon fish sauce
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried basil 1 teaspoon dried basil
• Salt and pepper, to taste Salt and pepper, to taste
• Fresh basil leaves, for garnish Fresh basil leaves, for garnish
• Grated Parmesan cheese, for garnish Grated Parmesan cheese, for garnish

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 350 kcal / 1465 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 8g, 2g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 60g, 8g
• Protein: 10g
• Fiber: 5g
• Salt: 1.5g

Preparation

1. 1.
   Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. 2.
   In a large pan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and chopped onion, and sauté until fragrant and golden brown.
3. 3.
   Add the canned diced tomatoes, tomato paste, fish sauce, dried oregano, and dried basil to the pan. Stir well to combine.
4. 4.
   Reduce the heat to low and let the sauce simmer for about 15 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. 5.
   Add the cooked pasta to the pan and toss until well coated with the tomato sauce.
6. 6.
   Serve the Filipino-American Style Tomato Pasta hot, garnished with fresh basil leaves and grated Parmesan cheese.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Pasta — Cook the pasta until al dente to ensure a perfect texture. Overcooking can result in mushy pasta.
• Fish sauce — Adjust the amount of fish sauce according to your taste preference. It adds a unique umami flavor, so start with a small amount and add more if desired.

Tips & Tricks

• For a spicier kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the tomato sauce.
• Feel free to add your favorite vegetables such as bell peppers or mushrooms to the dish for added flavor and nutrition.
• If you prefer a creamier sauce, stir in a tablespoon of cream or coconut milk before adding the pasta.

Serving advice

Serve the Filipino-American Style Tomato Pasta as a main course accompanied by a fresh green salad and garlic bread.

Presentation advice

Garnish the pasta with a sprig of fresh basil and a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese to enhance its visual appeal.