Tomato Basil Pasta
A quick and easy pasta dish featuring fresh tomatoes, fragrant basil, and garlic, perfect for busy nights.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Boiling and Sautéing
- Cuisine: Italian
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
- 12 oz. Pasta (spaghetti, penne, or fusilli)
- 2 tablespoons Olive Oil
- 3 cloves Garlic, minced
- 4 medium Fresh Tomatoes, diced
- 1 cup Fresh Basil, chopped
- Salt and Pepper, to taste
- ½ cup Parmesan Cheese, grated (optional)
- A pinch of Red Pepper Flakes (optional)
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: In a large pot of salted boiling water, cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water, then drain the pasta.
- Prepare the Sauce: In a large skillet over medium heat, add the olive oil. Once hot, add minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.
- Add Tomatoes: Add the diced tomatoes to the skillet and cook for 5-7 minutes. Stir occasionally until the tomatoes soften and begin to release their juices. Season with salt and pepper.
- Combine Pasta and Sauce: Add the drained pasta to the skillet. Toss to coat the pasta in the tomato mixture, adding reserved pasta water as needed.
- Finish with Basil: Stir in the chopped basil and toss everything together. Cook for another 1-2 minutes until heated through.
- Serve: Remove from heat and serve immediately, sprinkled with parmesan cheese and red pepper flakes if desired.
Notes
For extra flavor, consider adding grilled chicken or sautéed vegetables. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.