Classic Tomato Basil Pasta

January 19, 2025

Who’s ready to twirl some magic onto their fork? This Classic Tomato Basil Pasta is pure simplicity at its finest—fresh, flavorful, and oh-so-satisfying! Whether you're a pasta pro or a newbie in the kitchen, this recipe will have you cooking (and eating) like a star in no time!

5.0 out of 5 (1 rating)

Ah, pasta! Is there anything quite as comforting as a bowl of noodles kissed with a vibrant tomato sauce? Picture this: a dish so simple, yet so bursting with flavor, it feels like you're dining in a little trattoria nestled on the cobblestone streets of Rome. This Classic Tomato Basil Pasta is here to charm your taste buds with its rustic, no-fuss elegance. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or simply craving a cozy solo meal, this recipe is your ticket to Italian-inspired bliss. Let’s twirl some magic onto those forks, shall we?

What makes this pasta special is its unapologetic simplicity. It’s an all-star duo of ripe, juicy tomatoes and fragrant fresh basil stealing the show, as they should! We lean into the magic of quality ingredients here—a splash of olive oil, a smattering of garlic, and just the right pinch of salt and pepper. Oh, but don’t forget the secret weapon: a touch of balsamic vinegar to elevate the sauce with a hint of tangy sweetness. The result? A classic yet nuanced pasta dish that walks the fine line between tradition and personal flair.

Now, let's chat about technique because pasta perfection is all about those little details. Use fresh, firm tomatoes if possible—they make the world of a difference in taste and texture. If you’re going with canned, splurge on San Marzano varieties for that extra dose of richness. When cooking the pasta, aim for perfectly al dente, and don’t forget to reserve some of that starchy pasta water—it’s the unsung hero that brings the sauce and noodles together in glorious harmony. Oh, and pro-tip? Tear your basil by hand instead of chopping—it keeps those oils locked in for maximum aroma.

Here’s the fun part: eating it! Serve this pasta with a generous sprinkle of Parmesan, a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil, and maybe a crack of fresh black pepper on top. Want to take it up a notch? Add a handful of sautéed mushrooms or a few sun-dried tomatoes for a flavor twist. Or toss in some grilled shrimp or chicken if you're feeling extra fancy. But honestly, this pasta is so hearty and satisfying on its own, it’ll have you licking the bowl clean. So, what are you waiting for? Roll up your sleeves, channel your inner Italian nonna, and let this dish transport you to all the deliciousness you deserve!

Keywords: easy tomato basil pasta recipe, homemade Italian pasta sauce, fresh basil pasta ideas, best tomato pasta recipe, quick weeknight pasta dishes, vegetarian pasta recipes with tomatoes, flavorful pasta dinner recipes

Prep Time

15 minutes

Cook Time

20 minutes

Servings

4 servings

Cuisine

Italian

Ingredients

•12 ounces spaghetti
•2 tablespoons olive oil
•4 cloves garlic, minced
•1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
•4 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
•1 teaspoon salt, or to taste
•1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
•1/2 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
•1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus extra for serving
•1/2 cup pasta water (reserved)

Instructions

1
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water before draining.
2
While the pasta cooks, heat olive oil over medium heat in a large skillet.
3
Add minced garlic and red pepper flakes (if using) to the skillet and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute.
4
Add the cherry tomatoes to the skillet, season with salt and pepper, and cook, stirring occasionally, until the tomatoes soften and begin to burst, about 8-10 minutes.
5
Stir in the reserved pasta water and cooked spaghetti, tossing to coat in the tomato sauce.
6
Mix in the fresh basil and 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese.
7
Serve immediately, garnished with extra Parmesan and basil if desired.

Nutrition Information

Calories

420 calories

Protein

12g

Carbs

65g

Fat

12g

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can I make this recipe with a different type of pasta?

A: Yes, you can substitute spaghetti with other long pasta like linguine, fettuccine, or angel hair. For shorter pasta varieties, such as penne or fusilli, ensure the sauce evenly coats the pasta for the best results.

Q: What can I use instead of cherry tomatoes?

A: If cherry tomatoes aren't available, you can use grape tomatoes, diced Roma tomatoes, or even canned whole or diced tomatoes. If using canned tomatoes, drain them slightly and adjust the cooking time as they may be softer and cook faster.

Q: Can I make this recipe vegan?

A: Yes, you can make this recipe vegan by omitting the Parmesan cheese or using a plant-based Parmesan alternative. Nutritional yeast also works well for adding a cheesy flavor.

Q: What should I do if the tomato sauce seems too watery?

A: If the sauce is too watery, let it simmer for a few extra minutes to allow the liquid to reduce. You can also add a small amount of tomato paste to thicken it. Be cautious not to overcook the tomatoes, as they should still have a slightly chunky texture.

Q: How should I store leftovers, and how long will they last?

A: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water or olive oil to loosen the sauce if needed. Avoid microwaving, as it may make the pasta mushy.

Q: What are some variations I can try with this recipe?

A: You can add protein such as grilled chicken, shrimp, or cooked Italian sausage for a heartier meal. For extra vegetables, stir in spinach, zucchini, or mushrooms during the cooking process. You can also add a splash of balsamic vinegar or a pinch of sugar to enhance the tomato flavor.

Q: Can I use dried basil instead of fresh basil?

A: While fresh basil is preferred for its vibrant flavor, you can substitute it with dried basil if necessary. Use 1-2 teaspoons of dried basil and add it earlier in the cooking process when the tomatoes are simmering to allow the flavors to meld.

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