Tomato Basil Pasta
Tomato Basil Pasta is a vibrant, classic Italian dish that combines ripe tomatoes, fresh basil, and olive oil into a mouthwatering sauce. This simple yet flavorful pasta is perfect for any occasion, from weeknight dinners to family gatherings.The rich, aromatic flavors of the sauce blend beautifully with the al dente pasta, creating a satisfying and heartwarming meal. The best part? It’s made with just a few fresh ingredients, making it both delicious and easy to prepare.
Equipment
- 1 large pot (for boiling pasta)
- 1 Large skillet (for making the sauce)
- 1 Cutting board
- 1 Knife
- 1 colander (for draining pasta)
- 1 Grater (for Parmesan cheese, optional)
Ingredients
- 12 oz 340 g Pasta of choice (spaghetti, penne, fusilli)
- 4 medium 500 g Fresh tomatoes, chopped
- 1/4 cup 60 ml Olive oil
- 4 cloves Garlic minced
- 1/2 cup 10 g Fresh basil, chopped (plus extra for garnish)
- 1/2 tsp Salt adjust to taste
- 1/4 tsp Black pepper adjust to taste
- 1/4 tsp Red pepper flakes optional
- 1/4 cup 30 g Parmesan cheese, freshly grated (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the Ingredients: Wash the tomatoes and chop them into small chunks. Mince the garlic and chop the basil leaves. Set these ingredients aside for later.
- Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente (about 8-10 minutes). Drain, reserving 1/4 cup of the pasta water, and set aside.
- Make the Sauce: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1-2 minutes, until fragrant but not browned. Add the chopped tomatoes, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using). Cook for 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the tomatoes break down and release their juices.
- Combine Pasta and Sauce: Add the drained pasta to the skillet with the tomato sauce. Toss to combine, making sure the pasta is well-coated with the sauce. If the sauce seems too thick, add a little of the reserved pasta water to loosen it up.
- Finish the Dish: Stir in the fresh basil leaves and cook for another 2 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
- Serve: Plate the pasta and sprinkle with freshly grated Parmesan cheese (optional) and extra basil for garnish. Serve immediately.
Notes
- Vegan Option: Skip the Parmesan cheese or use a vegan cheese alternative for a dairy-free version.
- Pasta Variations: Feel free to use any type of pasta you prefer, such as spaghetti, penne, or fusilli.
- Add Protein: To make this dish heartier, consider adding grilled chicken, shrimp, or tofu.
- Tomato Choices: Fresh, in-season tomatoes will give the best flavor, but canned tomatoes can be used as a substitute if fresh are not available.
- Storage: Leftover Tomato Basil Pasta can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a little water or olive oil to bring it back to its original consistency.