Servings: 6

INGREDIENTS:

• 2 medium tomatoes, diced
• 2 Tbs red wine vinegar
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• 1/4 cup butter
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• 1 1/2 cups fresh bread crumbs
• 8 oz bow tie pasta
• 2 cups shredded green cabbage
• 1/2 cup blanched slivered almonds, toasted

INSTRUCTIONS:

1. Toss together the diced tomatoes, red wine vinegar, and chopped fresh basil; set aside.
2. In a skillet over medium heat, stir together the olive oil, butter, and minced garlic. Cook until the mixture is bubbly. Stir in the bread crumbs and continue cooking, stirring constantly, until the crumbs are golden brown. Remove from heat.
3. Cook the bow tie pasta in a large pot of boiling water according to the package directions. Stir in the shredded cabbage during the last minute of cooking. Drain the pasta.
4. Toss the cooked pasta with the tomato mixture. Then, toss it with the bread crumb mixture and toasted almonds.
5. Serve the dish immediately.

Here are a few variations you can try with the given recipe:

1. Mediterranean Twist: Add some crumbled feta cheese and Kalamata olives to the pasta dish. You can also sprinkle some dried oregano and a squeeze of lemon juice for an extra Mediterranean flavor.
2. Creamy Pasta: Instead of tossing the pasta with bread crumbs, prepare a creamy sauce. In a separate saucepan, melt some butter, whisk in flour, and gradually add milk or cream while stirring constantly. Season with salt, pepper, and your choice of herbs. Combine the creamy sauce with the pasta and other ingredients.
3. Vegetarian Option: Omit the butter and use extra olive oil or a plant-based butter substitute. You can also add more vegetables like roasted bell peppers, sliced zucchini, or sautéed mushrooms to enhance the dish’s flavor and texture.
4. Protein Boost: Incorporate protein by adding cooked chicken, shrimp, or tofu to the pasta. Season the protein with salt, pepper, and your preferred spices before cooking or sautéing. Toss the cooked protein with the pasta and other ingredients.
5. Spicy Kick: For those who enjoy a bit of heat, add some crushed red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños to the tomato mixture. You can also sprinkle some grated Parmesan cheese on top for an additional flavor dimension.

Here’s some additional information about the dish:

• Tomato Basil Pasta: The base of this dish is a refreshing tomato and basil mixture. The diced tomatoes provide a juicy and vibrant element, while the red wine vinegar adds a tangy note. Fresh basil leaves contribute a delightful herbal aroma and taste.
• Crunchy Bread Crumbs: The bread crumbs in this recipe add a delightful crunch and texture to the dish. They are cooked in a skillet with olive oil, butter, and minced garlic until golden brown. This mixture adds a savory and slightly nutty flavor to the pasta.
• Bow Tie Pasta and Shredded Cabbage: The choice of bow tie pasta (also known as farfalle) adds a playful and visually appealing element to the dish. It pairs well with the shredded green cabbage, which provides a slightly sweet and crunchy texture. Cooking the cabbage together with the pasta adds a pop of color and freshness.
• Toasted Almonds: The blanched slivered almonds are toasted to bring out their natural nuttiness and enhance their texture. They add a delightful crunch and a subtle, earthy flavor to the dish.
• Servings: This recipe yields approximately 6 servings, making it suitable for a small gathering or family meal. However, you can easily adjust the quantities to suit your needs.