Tomato Basil Pasta
This vibrant and comforting tomato basil pasta combines sweet summer tomatoes, fragrant garlic, and fresh basil for an effortlessly delicious weeknight meal.
Ingredients
- •1 pound dried spaghetti or penne pasta (450g)
- •3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- •4 cloves garlic, thinly sliced
- •2 cans (14 ounces each) crushed or whole peeled San Marzano tomatoes, pureed slightly by hand
- •1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- •1 cup fresh basil leaves, torn
- •1 teaspoon kosher salt
- •1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- •1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions
- 1
Bring a large pot of generously salted water to a rolling boil over high heat.
- 2
Add the pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente.
- 3
While the pasta cooks, heat the extra virgin olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- 4
Add the sliced garlic and red pepper flakes, cooking for about 1 minute until fragrant, being careful not to let the garlic brown.
- 5
Pour in the crushed tomatoes, season with kosher salt and black pepper, and bring the sauce to a gentle simmer.
- 6
Simmer the sauce uncovered for about 15 to 20 minutes, allowing it to thicken and the flavors to meld.
- 7
Reserve 1/2 cup of the starchy pasta cooking water before draining the pasta.
- 8
Add the drained pasta directly into the skillet with the tomato sauce, tossing well to coat.
- 9
Stir in the torn fresh basil leaves and a splash of the reserved pasta water if the sauce needs loosening.
- 10
Serve warm, garnished with extra fresh basil and grated parmesan cheese if desired.
💡 Chef tips
- Use high-quality canned San Marzano tomatoes for the sweetest and most authentic Italian flavor.
- Always reserve some pasta cooking water; the starches help the sauce cling to the noodles seamlessly.
- Store leftover pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of water.
✅ How it should turn out
The finished dish should feature al dente pasta thoroughly coated in a bright, glossy tomato sauce that smells intensely of sweet garlic and fresh aromatic basil.