Save A vibrant, summery pasta dish featuring ripe tomatoes, aromatic basil, and a hint of garlic, perfect for a quick and flavorful meal.
I love how this dish comes together in under 30 minutes and always reminds me of summer evenings spent outdoors.
Ingredients
- Pasta: 350 g (12 oz) spaghetti or linguine
- Vegetables & Herbs: 500 g (1.1 lbs) ripe cherry or Roma tomatoes, diced, 1 large handful fresh basil leaves, torn, 3 cloves garlic, finely minced
- Other: 4 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil, 1 tsp sea salt (plus more for pasta water), ½ tsp freshly ground black pepper, 40 g (1.5 oz) Parmesan cheese, grated (plus extra to serve, optional), Pinch of red pepper flakes (optional)
Instructions
- Step 1:
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve ½ cup pasta water, then drain.
- Step 2:
- While the pasta cooks, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the garlic and cook for 1 minute, until fragrant but not browned.
- Step 3:
- Add the diced tomatoes, salt, and black pepper. Cook for 45 minutes, stirring occasionally, until tomatoes begin to soften and release their juices.
- Step 4:
- Add the drained pasta to the skillet along with half of the reserved pasta water. Toss well to combine, adding more pasta water as needed for a silky sauce.
- Step 5:
- Remove from heat. Stir in the torn basil and grated Parmesan. Add red pepper flakes if desired.
- Step 6:
- Taste and adjust seasoning. Serve immediately, garnished with extra basil and Parmesan.
Save This recipe always brings the family together for a comforting and delicious meal.
Notes
For additional protein, add cooked white beans or grilled chicken. Swap Parmesan for a vegetarian-friendly hard cheese if desired. Use heirloom tomatoes for extra flavor. Pairs well with a crisp Pinot Grigio or sparkling water with lemon.
Required Tools
Large pot, Large skillet, Chefs knife, Cutting board, Colander, Grater
Allergen Information
Contains wheat (gluten) and dairy (Parmesan cheese). For a gluten-free version, use gluten-free pasta and verify cheese ingredients. For a vegan version, omit Parmesan or use a plant-based alternative. Always check packaging for potential allergens.
Save This fresh tomato basil pasta is a reliable go-to for a wholesome and flavorful dinner that's ready in no time.
Recipe FAQs
- → What type of pasta works best?
Spaghetti or linguine are ideal for this dish, as they hold the light tomato sauce well.
- → Can I use regular tomatoes instead of cherry or Roma?
Yes, just dice them finely to ensure they cook down into a saucy consistency.
- → How do I prevent garlic from burning?
Cook garlic on medium heat just until fragrant, about one minute, to avoid bitterness.
- → What can I substitute for Parmesan cheese?
For vegetarian or vegan options, use a suitable hard cheese alternative or a plant-based substitute.
- → How can I make this dish spicy?
Add a pinch of red pepper flakes when stirring in the basil and cheese for a gentle heat.