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Tomato and basil: bruschetta and pasta

Tomatoes need two textures: fresh dice on toast and sauce coating pasta.

Equipment and organisation

Use sauce pan, pasta pot and a way to toast bread. Save a ladle of pasta water before draining.

Before starting

Prepare and drain bruschetta tomatoes. Start pasta sauce; reserve some basil for finishing.

During cooking or resting

Cook pasta according to its packet. Toast bread near serving and combine pasta with sauce, adding cooking water if needed.

Just before serving

Top bread at the last moment to limit softening. Add fresh basil and serve pasta promptly.

Yield and serving

Both recipes yield 4 portions. Serve bruschetta as a starter, adjusting bread for a smaller tasting before pasta.

Quantities and timings belong to each recipe. Parallel steps depend on your equipment; menu times do not simply add together.