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Delicious Fresh Tomato and Basil Pasta Recipe – A Classic Italian Favorite
35min
Total Time
4 people
Servings
Easy
Difficulty
Moderate
Cost
520 kcal
Calories
In this delightful recipe, fresh tomatoes and fragrant basil come together to create a mouthwatering pasta dish that captures the essence of Italian cuisine.
Ingredients
4
- 400g spaghetti or linguine
- 4 large ripe tomatoes, diced
- 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, torn
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
- Salt, to taste
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Freshly grated Parmesan cheese, for serving
Instructions
1
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente.
2
While the pasta is cooking, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1-2 minutes.
3
Add the diced tomatoes to the skillet and cook for 5-7 minutes, allowing them to soften and release their juices.
4
Once the pasta is cooked, reserve a cup of pasta water, then drain the pasta.
5
Add the drained pasta to the skillet with the tomato sauce, toss to combine, adding reserved pasta water as needed to achieve the desired sauce consistency.
6
Stir in the torn basil leaves, season with salt and pepper to taste, and cook for an additional 2 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
7
Serve hot, topped with freshly grated Parmesan cheese.
Kitchen Tools
- Large pot for boiling pasta
- Skillet or frying pan
- Colander for draining pasta
- Serving spatula or tongs
Pro Tips
Use the ripest tomatoes for maximum flavor.
Feel free to add chili flakes for a spicy kick.
Adjust the amount of basil based on your personal preference.
Troubleshooting
If the sauce is too watery, let it simmer a little longer to thicken.
If it lacks flavor, consider adding more salt or garlic.
Recipe Variations
Add fresh mozzarella for a Caprese twist.
Incorporate sautéed zucchini or spinach for extra veggies.
Healthy Alternatives
Use whole wheat pasta for added fiber.
Swap Parmesan with nutritional yeast for a dairy-free option.
Serving Suggestions
Pair the pasta with a side salad of arugula and cherry tomatoes.
Serve with crusty garlic bread for a complete meal.
Nutrition Facts
520
Calories
15g
Protein
75g
Carbs
20g
Fat
4g
Fiber
4g
Sugar
150mg
Sodium
10mg
Cholesterol
Dietary Info
Vegetarian
Lactose-free
Garnish Ideas
Sprinkle additional basil leaves on top.
Drizzle with balsamic reduction for added sweetness.
Storage
Store leftover pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of olive oil or water.
Leftover Ideas
Make a delicious pasta bake by adding cheese and baking until bubbly.
Transform leftovers into a cold pasta salad by adding veggies and a vinaigrette.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Overcooking the pasta can make it mushy.
Not using enough salt in the cooking water can lead to bland pasta.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use canned tomatoes instead of fresh ones?
Yes, canned tomatoes work well; just choose whole or diced for the best texture.
Can I prepare this pasta in advance?
It's best to prepare and serve the pasta fresh for optimal flavor, but you can boil the pasta ahead and store it separately.
What can I substitute for basil if I don’t have any?
Oregano or parsley can be used as alternatives to basil, though the flavor will be different.
How do I know when the tomatoes are perfectly cooked?
The tomatoes should be soft and juicy, and their skin may start to separate when they are done.
Is this dish suitable for meal prep?
While you can prepare components separately, it's best to cook and serve pasta fresh for the best texture.
Reviews
Sophia
Mar 30, 2026
This pasta was so delicious! The fresh flavors of tomato and basil are amazing.
Liam
Apr 15, 2026
Quick and easy! Perfect for a weeknight dinner.
Emma
Apr 12, 2026
Loved how simple yet flavorful this dish is. Will make it again!
Ryan
Apr 8, 2026
Great recipe! I added some grilled chicken for protein.
Olivia
Apr 5, 2026
It was good, but I thought it needed more seasoning.
Noah
Apr 12, 2026
Easy and satisfying! My family loved it.
Mia
Mar 22, 2026
The perfect summer dish, fresh and light.
Lucas
Mar 19, 2026
Simple ingredients with a gourmet taste. Wow!
Ava
Mar 21, 2026
I enjoyed this recipe. The basil made it special.
Ethan
Mar 20, 2026
Nice flavor, but I think it could use some spice.
