Quick Tomato Basil Pasta: A 20-Minute Delight

Name: Quick Tomato Basil Pasta
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 8 oz (225g) spaghetti or penne; 2 cups (300g) ripe tomatoes, chopped; 1/4 cup (15g) fresh basil leaves, chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 3 tbsp (45ml) extra virgin olive oil; Salt to taste; Pepper to taste

Posted on August 8, 2025

Quick Tomato Basil Pasta is like a warm hug on a plate. Picture this: fresh, aromatic basil dancing with ripe tomatoes in a sea of al dente pasta, all coated in a luscious olive oil bath. Each bite bursts with flavor, wrapping you in comforting goodness that makes your taste buds sing and your heart skip a beat. This dish isn’t just food; it’s a celebration of simplicity and freshness that can brighten even the gloomiest days. For more inspiration, check out this Creamy Lemon Shrimp Pasta recipe.

Now, let me take you back to a sun-soaked summer afternoon when I first discovered the magic of Quick Tomato Basil Pasta. My grandmother’s kitchen hummed with laughter and the fragrant aroma of tomatoes simmering on the stove. We gathered around the table, each fork twirling strands of pasta while sharing stories that made our sides ache from laughing. one pot gnocchi recipe Quick Tomato Basil Pasta became our family’s go-to recipe for gatherings, effortlessly bringing everyone together and leaving us craving more.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

This Quick Tomato Basil Pasta comes together in under 30 minutes, making weeknight dinners stress-free and enjoyable.
The fresh flavors leave your taste buds tingling with joy and excitement for more.
Visually stunning with vibrant colors, it will impress anyone at your dinner table.
It’s versatile enough for any occasion, whether it’s a picnic or date night at home.

Ingredients for Quick Tomato Basil Pasta

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

Pasta: Choose your favorite type spaghetti or penne works wonderfully for this dish.
Fresh Tomatoes: Ripe tomatoes ensure maximum flavor; heirloom varieties add an extra burst of sweetness.
Fresh Basil: Nothing beats the aroma of freshly chopped basil; it elevates this dish to new heights.
Garlic: Use minced garlic to infuse bold flavors into your pasta; it’s an absolute must.
Olive Oil: Good quality extra virgin olive oil enhances the overall taste and adds richness to the sauce.
Salt and Pepper: Season generously to bring out all those beautiful flavors.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

How to Make Quick Tomato Basil Pasta

Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add your pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente—about eight to ten minutes usually does the trick.

Step 2: Sauté the Garlic

While the pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant about one minute but don’t let it brown unless you want some unexpected crunch!

Step 3: Add Tomatoes

Once your kitchen smells heavenly thanks to the garlic, toss in those juicy tomatoes! Let them cook down for about five minutes until they soften up and release their juices into a delicious sauce.

Step 4: Combine with Pasta

Drain your pasta but save about half a cup of that starchy cooking water (magic ingredient alert!). Add both the pasta and reserved water into your skillet with the tomatoes, stirring gently until everything is combined beautifully.

Step 5: Finish with Fresh Basil

Sprinkle in chopped fresh basil and season generously with salt and pepper. Toss everything together until well mixed a quick swirl will do wonders!

Step 6: Serve Up!

Transfer your vibrant Quick Tomato Basil Pasta onto plates or into bowls. Drizzle with extra virgin olive oil for that finishing touch the kind that makes people ask if you’re secretly an Italian chef!

And there you have it! A delightful plate of Quick Tomato Basil Pasta that’s sure to impress family and friends alike. Enjoy every twirl of those noodles!

You Must Know

This quick tomato basil pasta recipe offers incredible flavor and simplicity.
With just a handful of fresh ingredients, you can whip up a delicious meal that impresses everyone at the dinner table.
Perfect for busy weeknights yet elegant enough for special occasions.

Perfecting the Cooking Process

First, cook your pasta al dente while you prepare the sauce. Sauté garlic and tomatoes in olive oil, then stir in fresh basil. Combine everything together for a harmonious blend of flavors that will make your taste buds dance.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to customize this recipe by adding grilled chicken, shrimp, or even some sautéed veggies like zucchini or spinach. Experiment with different herbs or a splash of balsamic vinegar to give it that extra zing.

Storing & Reheating

To store leftovers, place them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of water or olive oil to restore moisture without compromising flavor.

Chef's Helpful Tips

Use freshly chopped basil for maximum flavor the aroma is worth it!
Always salt your pasta water; it’s the secret to flavorful pasta.
If your sauce is too thick, add a little pasta cooking water to loosen it up.

The first time I made quick tomato basil pasta, my friend declared it “the best thing since sliced bread.” Who knew such simple ingredients could create such joy? It’s now our go-to dish for gatherings!

FAQs :

What ingredients do I need for Quick Tomato Basil Pasta?

To prepare Quick Tomato Basil Pasta, you’ll need fresh tomatoes, garlic, olive oil, fresh basil leaves, pasta of your choice, salt, and pepper. You can opt for spaghetti or penne depending on your preference. This simple combination of ingredients not only makes the dish delicious but also allows the vibrant flavors to shine through. sun dried tomato dip Using high-quality olive oil and fresh basil will elevate your dish even more. Remember that ripe tomatoes are key for the best flavor in this quick recipe.

How long does it take to make Quick Tomato Basil Pasta?

Quick Tomato Basil Pasta is an ideal dish for busy days since it typically takes about 20 to 30 minutes from start to finish. Cooking the pasta usually takes around 10-12 minutes. While the pasta cooks, you can prepare the tomato sauce by sautéing garlic in olive oil and adding chopped tomatoes and fresh basil. herbed ricotta tomato tart This quick cooking process ensures that you enjoy a flavorful meal without spending hours in the kitchen. It’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or a quick lunch.

Can I make Quick Tomato Basil Pasta with canned tomatoes?

Yes, you can definitely make Quick Tomato Basil Pasta using canned tomatoes if fresh ones are unavailable. Opt for high-quality canned San Marzano tomatoes for the best flavor. Drain excess liquid before adding them to your sauce so that it doesn’t become too watery. Canned tomatoes can be equally delicious when seasoned properly with garlic, salt, and fresh basil. This option is particularly convenient during off-seasons when fresh tomatoes are not at their peak.

Is Quick Tomato Basil Pasta healthy?

Absolutely! Quick Tomato Basil Pasta is both nutritious and healthy when made with whole ingredients like whole grain pasta and plenty of fresh vegetables. Tomatoes are rich in vitamins A and C as well as antioxidants like lycopene that promote heart health. Additionally, olive oil provides healthy fats that can benefit overall health. By using minimal added sugars or unhealthy fats, this dish remains a wholesome option that can fit into a balanced diet.

Conclusion for Quick Tomato Basil Pasta :

In summary, Quick Tomato Basil Pasta is a delightful dish that combines simplicity with robust flavors. With just a few fresh ingredients, you can create a meal that’s ready in under 30 minutes. Whether you choose fresh or canned tomatoes, the essence of this recipe lies in its ease of preparation and delicious outcome. heirloom tomato galette Perfect for any occasion, this pasta dish makes it easy to enjoy a healthy meal without spending too much time in the kitchen. Enjoy every bite of this flavorful experience! For more inspiration, check out this Huevos Rancheros Recipe recipe.