There are three kinds of basil that I know of – sweet basil for pastas, Thai basil and holy basil. At home, we have Thai basil growing profusely in the garden. I like them in spicy dishes though I’ve used Thai basil in spring rolls. The aroma can be overpowering at times so I was a bit wary of using it in tomato-based pastas. But I just had to have my pasta fix one time and there was no sweet basil around, and decided to add Thai basil instead. Goodness, just pasta goodness! There’s a subtle difference between Thai basil and sweet basil with the tuna pasta but the Thai basil and tuna combination is the winner!
Got more pasta dishes up your sleeves? I’m hosting Presto Pasta Nights this week so you still have time to send me your posts. The email is ascientistinthekitchen AT gmail DOT com.
Tuna and Thai Basil Pasta
250 grams spaghetti pasta
1 can diced tomato
1 can tuna chunks in oil, drained and oil reserved
5 cloves garlic, chopped finely
1 medium size white onion, chopped coarsely
chili flakes, pepper and salt to taste
A handfull of Thai basil, shredded in half by hand
Cook pasta according to package directions. Saute garlic and onion in reserved oil. Add the tomatoes and simmer for a few minutes. Add the tuna and stir a few times to mix the tuna and sauce. Add the Thai basil and simmer for a minute. Season with chili flakes, salt and pepper. Add the pasta and mix well to coat the pasta with sauce. Remove from fire and serve.
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Sawadee kha! My name is Gay a.k.a. A Scientist in the Kitchen. Science and cooking are two of my passions. I'm a corn breeder who also loves to eat and cook. My kitchen is in Phitsanulok, Thailand where I am based together with Pasta (yes, I love Italian food!) my black labrador retriever.
U’ve never had Thai basil. In my new house/garden I’ll try planting some… If I ever get there….
My entry is sent….
Thank you so much for your comments and visit. You have a great site. I am learning Filipino culinary and I will be going through your archives soon …
I have ths sorriest thai basil plant struggling in a pot on my window sill…no garden here.
I envy you, yours! The dish looks wonderful and not often, but sometimes, I can find some Thai basil at the market. The next time I do…this will be the dish I choose.
Thanks for sharing with Presto Pasta Nights. and a special thanks for hosting this week!
this is a nice change from the usual pasta sauces that I’ve cooked.
too bad I only have Thai basil paste..do you think if I substitute it for fresh basil,it would still taste the same?
Thank you in advance. =)