Description
Quick Tomato Basil Pasta is a delightful and vibrant dish that combines fresh tomatoes, aromatic basil, and perfectly cooked al dente pasta, all drizzled with premium extra virgin olive oil. Ready in under 30 minutes, this recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or spontaneous gatherings. Each bite bursts with freshness and flavor, making it an instant favorite for any dinner table.
Ingredients
Scale
- 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
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: Boil salted water in a large pot. Add pasta and cook until al dente, about 8-10 minutes. Reserve 1/2 cup pasta water before draining.
- Sauté Garlic: In a large skillet over medium heat, warm olive oil and sauté minced garlic until fragrant (about 1 minute).
- Add Tomatoes: Stir in chopped tomatoes and cook for approximately 5 minutes until soft.
- Combine with Pasta: Add drained pasta and reserved water to the skillet. Toss gently to combine.
- Finish with Basil: Mix in fresh basil and season with salt and pepper.
- Serve: Plate the pasta and drizzle with extra virgin olive oil for added flavor.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Boiling
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (250g)
- Calories: 310
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 240mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 42g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 7g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
Keywords: Customize by adding grilled chicken, shrimp, or sautéed vegetables like zucchini or spinach. For an extra zing, try adding balsamic vinegar or red pepper flakes.