Description
Classic Tomato Basil Pasta is a simple, flavorful Italian dish featuring al dente spaghetti tossed in a fragrant garlic and fresh basil-infused tomato sauce. It’s a quick weeknight meal that balances the sweetness and acidity of tomatoes with savory seasonings, perfect for vegetarians and pasta lovers alike.
Ingredients
Scale
Pasta
- 12 ounces spaghetti or pasta of choice
Sauce
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1 (28-ounce) can crushed tomatoes or 4 cups fresh ripe tomatoes, chopped
- 1 teaspoon sugar (optional, to balance acidity)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Finishing
- 1/2 cup fresh basil leaves, torn or chopped
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
- Extra basil and olive oil for garnish
Instructions
- Cook Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water before draining the pasta. Set pasta aside.
- Prepare Sauce: In a large skillet over medium heat, warm the olive oil. Add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes, if using, and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant, avoiding browning the garlic.
- Simmer Tomatoes: Add the crushed tomatoes, salt, black pepper, and sugar if needed. Stir well and let the sauce simmer for 10 to 15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it slightly thickens.
- Toss Pasta in Sauce: Add the cooked pasta to the skillet, along with the fresh basil and a splash of the reserved pasta water. Toss everything together to evenly coat the pasta with the sauce. Simmer for 1 to 2 minutes to blend the flavors.
- Serve: Dish out the pasta while hot. Top each serving with grated Parmesan cheese, a drizzle of olive oil, and additional fresh basil as garnish if desired.
Notes
- This simple pasta is delicious on its own or makes a great side dish.
- For a heartier meal, add sautéed mushrooms, grilled chicken, or roasted vegetables.
- To enhance richness, stir in a tablespoon of butter at the end of cooking.
