California Tomato Pasta

California Tomato Pasta Recipe - Delicious & Fresh USA Dish

Region / culture: USA | Preparation time: 20 minutes | Cooking time: 10 minutes | Servings: 4

Introduction

California Tomato Pasta is a refreshing and flavorful dish that combines ripe tomatoes, creamy avocado, and fresh basil. This pasta dish is perfect for a light and healthy meal that is bursting with summer flavors.

History

This recipe is inspired by the fresh and vibrant flavors of California cuisine. It combines the ripe tomatoes and avocados that are abundant in the state, along with the fragrant basil that grows in many Californian gardens.

Ingredients

3 large very ripe california avocados, pitted and scooped from peel.
3 tbsp freshly squeezed lime or lemon juice.
0.75 cup finely chopped red onion
3 cup peeled, seeded, drained, and chopped ripe tomato
2 cup chopped fresh basil
salt
freshly ground black pepper
1 lb (454 g) linguine or other dried pasta
fresh basil sprigs for garnish
Freshly grated parmesan cheese, preferably parmigiano-reggiano, for passing.

How to prepare

In a large pot, bring 4 qt (3.78 liters) of water to a boil over high heat.
Meanwhile, in a mixing bowl, mash the avocado.
Stir in the lime or lemon juice, onion, tomato, chopped basil, and salt and pepper to taste.
Set aside.
When the water boils, stir in 1 tbsp of salt, add the pasta, and cook until tender but still firm to the bite.
Drain and transfer to a preheated bowl.
Quickly stir in the reserved avocado mixture.
Garnish with basil sprigs and serve immediately.
Pass the cheese at the table.

Variations

Add grilled chicken or shrimp for extra protein.
Stir in some sun-dried tomatoes for added flavor.
Top with pine nuts or grated Parmesan cheese for a nutty finish.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Be sure to use very ripe tomatoes for the best flavor in this dish.

- Make sure to drain the tomatoes well to prevent the pasta from becoming too watery.

- Adjust the amount of lemon juice to suit your taste preferences.

- Serve the pasta immediately after mixing in the avocado mixture to prevent it from turning brown.

Serving Suggestions

Serve this pasta dish with a side salad or garlic bread for a complete meal.

Cooking Techniques

Be sure to cook the pasta al dente to prevent it from becoming mushy.

- Drain the tomatoes well to prevent the pasta from becoming too watery.

- Mix the avocado mixture into the pasta quickly to prevent it from turning brown.

Ingredient Substitutions

You can use cherry tomatoes or grape tomatoes in place of the ripe tomatoes.

- If you don't have fresh basil, you can use dried basil instead.

Make Ahead Tips

You can prepare the avocado mixture ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator until ready to use. Mix it into the pasta just before serving.

Presentation Ideas

Garnish the pasta with fresh basil sprigs and serve with freshly grated Parmesan cheese on the side for guests to add as desired.

Pairing Recommendations

This pasta dish pairs well with a crisp white wine, such as a Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop until heated through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of California Tomato Pasta contains approximately 350 calories.

Carbohydrates

This dish is a good source of carbohydrates, providing energy for your body. The pasta and tomatoes in this recipe are both rich in carbohydrates.

Fats

The avocado in this recipe provides healthy fats, including monounsaturated fats, which are good for heart health. The avocado also adds a creamy texture to the dish.

Proteins

While this dish is not high in protein, you can add grilled chicken or shrimp to increase the protein content.

Vitamins and minerals

This dish is rich in vitamins and minerals, including vitamin C from the tomatoes and basil, as well as potassium and fiber from the avocado.

Alergens

This recipe contains gluten from the pasta. If you have a gluten allergy or intolerance, you can use gluten-free pasta instead.

Summary

Overall, this dish is a nutritious and balanced meal that provides a good mix of carbohydrates, fats, and vitamins and minerals.

Summary

California Tomato Pasta is a light and refreshing dish that is perfect for a summer meal. With ripe tomatoes, creamy avocado, and fresh basil, this pasta is bursting with flavor and nutrients. Enjoy this dish with a side salad and a glass of white wine for a complete meal.

How did I get this recipe?

The memory of discovering this recipe for the first time is a cherished one. It was a warm summer day in California, and I had just moved into a new neighborhood. As I was unpacking my belongings, I heard a knock on the door. To my surprise, it was my new neighbor, Mrs. Johnson, holding a basket filled with fresh tomatoes.

"Hello, dear," she said with a warm smile. "I noticed you just moved in, and I thought I'd bring you some tomatoes from my garden. I thought you might enjoy using them in a recipe."

I was touched by her gesture and thanked her profusely. Little did I know that those tomatoes would lead me to discovering one of my favorite recipes - California Tomato Pasta.

As Mrs. Johnson handed me the basket, she mentioned that she had a delicious recipe for pasta using fresh tomatoes. Intrigued, I asked her if she would be willing to share it with me. She happily agreed and invited me over to her house the next day to show me how to make it.

The following day, I eagerly made my way to Mrs. Johnson's house. As soon as I walked in, I was greeted by the enticing aroma of tomatoes and herbs wafting from the kitchen. Mrs. Johnson had already started cooking, and she invited me to join her.

She began by sautéing garlic and onions in olive oil until they were fragrant and translucent. Then, she added the fresh tomatoes, which she had diced and peeled. The tomatoes released their juices, creating a rich and flavorful sauce. Mrs. Johnson seasoned the sauce with salt, pepper, and a generous amount of fresh basil from her garden.

While the sauce simmered, she cooked the pasta until it was al dente. Once the pasta was done, she tossed it in the tomato sauce, coating each strand with the vibrant red sauce. The dish was simple yet bursting with flavor, the freshness of the tomatoes shining through.

Mrs. Johnson served the pasta in a large bowl, garnished with a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese and a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil. I took a bite and was instantly transported to a sunny vineyard in Italy. The sweetness of the tomatoes, the sharpness of the garlic, and the earthiness of the basil all combined to create a symphony of flavors on my palate.

I couldn't believe how delicious the California Tomato Pasta was. Mrs. Johnson had truly outdone herself with this recipe. I thanked her profusely for sharing it with me and vowed to make it for my family and friends.

From that day on, California Tomato Pasta became a staple in my kitchen. I made it for potlucks, dinner parties, and even just for myself when I wanted a comforting and satisfying meal. Each time I cooked it, I thought of Mrs. Johnson and the generosity she had shown me by sharing her recipe.

Over the years, I have made some tweaks to the recipe, adding my own spin to it. Sometimes I like to add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a bit of heat, or swap out the basil for fresh oregano. But no matter how I make it, the essence of the dish remains the same - simple, fresh, and utterly delicious.

As I sit here reminiscing about that fateful day when Mrs. Johnson introduced me to California Tomato Pasta, I can't help but feel grateful for the friendships and connections that food can bring. Cooking has always been a way for me to express my creativity and share my love with others. And this recipe, in particular, holds a special place in my heart, reminding me of the kindness and warmth of my dear neighbor and the joy of discovering new flavors and dishes.

So here's to California Tomato Pasta - a recipe that will forever hold a special place in my kitchen and in my heart. Cheers to Mrs. Johnson and the gift of culinary inspiration. And may this dish continue to bring joy and comfort to all who taste it. Bon appétit!