Ah, Tomato Basil Pasta! This dish is like a little slice of summer on your plate. I remember the first time I made it on a warm evening, the sun setting and filling the kitchen with that lovely golden light. The aroma of fresh basil mingling with sautéing garlic just made my heart sing. It’s such a simple dish, but the flavors are vibrant and fresh, thanks to those juicy cherry tomatoes and fragrant basil. Honestly, there’s something magical about tossing together just a handful of ingredients and creating something so delicious! Whether I’m having a cozy dinner for two or whipping it up for friends, this pasta never fails to impress. It’s quick, it’s easy, and it’s an absolute joy to eat. Trust me, once you try it, you’ll want to make it all summer long!
Ingredients List
- 200g pasta (any type you love, but I usually go for spaghetti or penne)
- 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved (the sweeter, the better! Trust me on this)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced (fresh garlic makes all the difference)
- 1/4 cup olive oil (extra virgin for that rich flavor)
- 1/2 cup fresh basil, chopped (don’t skimp on this; it’s the star of the show!)
- Salt to taste (a little sprinkle goes a long way)
- Black pepper to taste (freshly cracked is always best)
How to Prepare Tomato Basil Pasta
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
- First things first, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. This is where you’ll cook your pasta. I usually let it boil for about 5 minutes before adding the pasta, just to make sure it’s nice and hot.
- Once the water is bubbling away, toss in 200g of your favorite pasta. Cook it according to the package instructions until it’s al dente—usually around 8-10 minutes. You want it to have a little bite!
- While your pasta is cooking, grab a large pan and heat 1/4 cup of olive oil over medium heat. Let it warm up for a minute or two, then add the 2 cloves of minced garlic. Sauté the garlic for about 30 seconds until it’s fragrant—be careful not to let it burn!
- Next, add the 2 cups of halved cherry tomatoes to the pan. Cook them for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they soften and release their juicy goodness.
- Once the pasta is done, reserve a cup of the pasta water (trust me, it’s great for adjusting the sauce later!) and drain the rest. Toss the hot pasta directly into the pan with the tomatoes and garlic.
- Now, add the chopped fresh basil, a sprinkle of salt, and black pepper to taste. Give everything a good mix, and if it seems a bit dry, add a splash of that reserved pasta water to help everything combine beautifully.
- Serve warm and enjoy the incredible aroma filling your kitchen! I like to top mine with a little extra basil for that gorgeous pop of green.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- It’s incredibly quick to prepare—ready in just 25 minutes!
- Fresh flavors burst in every bite, thanks to ripe cherry tomatoes and aromatic basil.
- Healthy and vegetarian, making it a guilt-free indulgence.
- Customizable with your favorite pasta type and optional cheese for added richness.
- Perfect for warm summer nights or any time you crave something light and delicious.
- Minimal ingredients mean you can whip it up anytime without a trip to the grocery store!
- It’s a crowd-pleaser, so you can impress family and friends with your culinary skills!
Tips for Success
Making the perfect Tomato Basil Pasta is all about the little details! Here are my top tips to elevate your dish:
- Use the freshest ingredients: The quality of your tomatoes and basil matters! If you can, grab some vine-ripened tomatoes and fresh basil from a local market. They’ll bring so much more flavor to your pasta.
- Don’t skip the salt: When boiling pasta, make sure your water is salty like the sea! It’s your chance to season the pasta itself, which makes a world of difference in taste.
- Save that pasta water: This is liquid gold! The starchy water helps to bind the sauce and pasta together, creating a silky texture. Just a splash can make your dish sing!
- Adjust the garlic: If you’re a garlic lover like me, feel free to add an extra clove or two! It adds a beautiful aroma and depth of flavor.
- Experiment with cheese: A sprinkle of grated Parmesan or Pecorino Romano right before serving can take this dish over the top. It adds a nice salty kick that complements the fresh ingredients beautifully.
- Let it rest: If you can, let your pasta sit for a minute after mixing in the sauce. This allows the flavors to meld together, making every bite even more delicious!
- Garnish for flair: Don’t forget to add a few extra basil leaves or a drizzle of olive oil right before serving. It makes your plate look gorgeous and adds a fresh pop!
With these tips in your back pocket, you’re all set to impress anyone who gets a taste of your Tomato Basil Pasta!
Serving Suggestions
Now that you’ve got this delightful Tomato Basil Pasta ready to go, let’s talk about what to serve alongside it! A little creativity can turn your meal into an unforgettable experience.
- Garlic Bread: You can’t go wrong with freshly baked garlic bread. It’s perfect for soaking up any leftover sauce and adds that lovely crunch!
- Caprese Salad: A fresh Caprese salad with juicy mozzarella, ripe tomatoes, and basil drizzled with balsamic glaze complements the pasta beautifully. It’s light and refreshing!
- Grilled Vegetables: Toss some seasonal veggies like zucchini, bell peppers, and asparagus on the grill. Their smoky flavor pairs wonderfully with the freshness of the pasta.
- Italian Antipasto Platter: Serve a colorful platter of cured meats, olives, and marinated artichokes. It adds a touch of Italian flair and is a great way to start the meal!
- Simple Green Salad: A crisp green salad with a light vinaigrette is an excellent balance to the richness of the pasta. Think mixed greens, cucumbers, and a squeeze of lemon.
- Wine Pairing: Don’t forget a nice glass of white wine, like a Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio. It enhances the flavors and makes the meal feel even more special!
These sides not only complement the Tomato Basil Pasta but also create a well-rounded, satisfying meal. Enjoy experimenting with different combinations and find what makes your heart (and taste buds) sing!
Nutritional Information
So, let’s chat about the nutritional side of this delicious Tomato Basil Pasta! While I’m no nutritionist, I like to keep track of the basics to ensure I’m enjoying my food and feeling good about it too. Here’s what you can expect per serving:
- Calories: Approximately 350
- Fat: 15g (of which Saturated Fat is 2g)
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 3g
- Sugar: 5g
- Protein: 10g
- Sodium: 200mg
- Cholesterol: 0mg
These values can vary a bit depending on the specific ingredients you use, so feel free to adjust as needed. But overall, this dish is a balanced option that packs in some great flavors without weighing you down. Enjoy your pasta with a happy heart and a satisfied tummy!
FAQ Section
Got questions about Tomato Basil Pasta? Don’t worry, I’ve got you covered! Here are some common queries I get, along with my trusty answers to help you out.
Can I use other types of pasta?
Absolutely! While I love spaghetti and penne, feel free to use any pasta you have on hand. Fusilli, farfalle, or even gluten-free options work wonderfully too!
What if I don’t have fresh basil?
If fresh basil isn’t available, you can use dried basil, but keep in mind that it’s more potent. Start with about a teaspoon and adjust to your taste. Fresh herbs really make this dish shine, though!
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
While this dish is best enjoyed fresh, you can certainly prepare the sauce ahead of time. Just keep the cooked pasta separate until you’re ready to serve. Reheat gently and add fresh basil right before eating!
How should I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. When reheating, add a splash of olive oil or a little reserved pasta water to help bring back the moisture.
What variations can I try?
There are so many fun variations! You could add sautéed vegetables like spinach or zucchini for extra nutrition, or toss in some protein like grilled chicken or shrimp for a heartier meal. Want to spice things up? A pinch of red pepper flakes adds a nice kick!
Can I add cheese?
Yes, yes, yes! Grated Parmesan or crumbled feta can elevate this dish to new heights. Just sprinkle it on top before serving for that cheesy goodness!
I hope these FAQs help you feel more confident making your Tomato Basil Pasta! Enjoy experimenting and making this dish your own!
Print
Tomato Basil Pasta: 7 Reasons to Love This Delightful Dish
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 2 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A simple and flavorful pasta dish featuring fresh tomatoes and basil.
Ingredients
- 200g pasta
- 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 1/2 cup fresh basil, chopped
- Salt to taste
- Black pepper to taste
Instructions
- Cook the pasta according to package instructions.
- In a pan, heat olive oil over medium heat.
- Add garlic and sauté until fragrant.
- Add cherry tomatoes and cook until soft.
- Toss in cooked pasta and mix well.
- Add fresh basil, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
- Serve warm.
Notes
- Use fresh tomatoes for best flavor.
- Adjust seasoning as per your taste.
- Can add grated cheese if desired.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 200mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 10g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
Keywords: Tomato Basil Pasta