If you love simple, fresh flavors that come together in minutes, this Tomato Basil Pasta Recipe is about to become your go-to dinner. Imagine juicy cherry tomatoes bursting with sweetness, fragrant basil leaves lifting every bite, and just the right touch of garlic and olive oil to create a light yet deeply satisfying dish. Whether you’re craving a speedy weeknight meal or a charming lunch to impress friends, this recipe combines the essence of summer’s best ingredients with a comforting Italian touch that makes every forkful feel like a celebration.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Every successful dish starts with ingredients that bring out the best in each other, and this Tomato Basil Pasta Recipe is no exception. The magic lies in how these fresh, simple components combine to create incredible taste, vibrant color, and the perfect texture that’ll have you smiling in no time.
- 12 ounces pasta (spaghetti, linguine, or your choice): Choose your favorite shape to carry the sauce beautifully.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil: Adds a silky richness and helps develop that irresistible garlic aroma.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Gives a punch of savory flavor that’s essential for balance.
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional): Adds a subtle kick if you like a little heat against the sweetness.
- 4 cups cherry tomatoes, halved: The star of the show—bursting with sweetness and juiciness.
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste: Brings out the natural flavors and seasons perfectly.
- 1/2 cup fresh basil leaves, roughly chopped: Brings brightness and an herbal lift that makes the dish unforgettable.
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Adds umami depth and a lovely creamy finish.
- 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar (optional): Enhances the tomatoes’ sweetness with a tangy touch.
How to Make Tomato Basil Pasta Recipe
Step 1: Cook the pasta al dente
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil—this seasoning is key for flavorful pasta. Cook your choice of pasta until it’s perfectly al dente, tender but still with a pleasant bite. Before draining, be sure to save half a cup of the starchy cooking water; this little trick helps marry the sauce and pasta later on.
Step 2: Sauté garlic and red pepper flakes
While the pasta cooks, warm the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Toss in the minced garlic and, if you like a bit of spice, the red pepper flakes. Keep stirring for about one minute until the garlic is fragrant and just starts to turn golden—this step infuses the oil with mouthwatering flavor that will coat every bite.
Step 3: Cook the cherry tomatoes
Add the halved cherry tomatoes along with a pinch of salt and freshly ground pepper to the skillet. Let them cook on medium heat, stirring now and then, for 5 to 7 minutes until they soften and start releasing their luscious juices. This forms a naturally sweet and slightly tangy sauce that’s simply divine.
Step 4: Combine pasta and tomatoes
Now, add the drained pasta to the skillet with your blistered tomatoes and garlic. Toss everything together to ensure the noodles soak up those vibrant tomato juices. If the mixture feels a bit dry, pour in some reserved pasta water a little at a time—it helps create a silky, cohesive sauce that clings perfectly to every strand.
Step 5: Add fresh basil and balsamic vinegar
Stir in the chopped basil leaves and, if you’re using it, the balsamic vinegar. Cook for another minute to let the basil wilt just slightly—this releases its aromatic oils and adds that signature fragrant punch to the dish. The balsamic vinegar brings an elegant tang that balances the tomatoes’ sweetness beautifully.
Step 6: Finish with Parmesan cheese
Remove the skillet from heat and generously sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese over the pasta. Gently toss together so the cheese melts into the sauce, creating a creamy, satisfying texture. Give it a quick taste and adjust with a touch more salt or pepper if needed—you’re almost there!
Step 7: Serve warm with garnishes
Serve the Tomato Basil Pasta Recipe glowing with fresh basil leaves and extra Parmesan for that eye-catching finish. The aromas alone will have everyone at the table eager to dig in!
How to Serve Tomato Basil Pasta Recipe
Garnishes
Extra fresh basil leaves and a light dusting of Parmesan cheese are all you need to create a stunning presentation. For a little texture contrast, a sprinkle of toasted pine nuts or a drizzle of good-quality olive oil takes this dish to the next level.
Side Dishes
This pasta pairs beautifully with a crisp salad, like arugula dressed with lemon juice and olive oil, or a rustic garlic bread that’s perfect for soaking up the remaining sauce. Roasted vegetables or a light caprese salad can also complement the meal effortlessly.
Creative Ways to Present
For a charming twist, serve this pasta in individual bowls topped with microgreens or edible flowers. You can also make it a shareable feast by plating it family-style in a large colorful dish, encouraging everyone to dig in and enjoy the company alongside the plate.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep any leftover Tomato Basil Pasta Recipe in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. The flavors meld beautifully overnight, making for a delicious second-day meal.
Freezing
This pasta is best enjoyed fresh, but if you want to freeze it, do so without the fresh basil and Parmesan cheese. Freeze in a sealed container for up to two months; add basil and cheese fresh when reheating for best results.
Reheating
Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat or microwave with a splash of water or broth to keep the sauce smooth and prevent the pasta from drying out. Stir in fresh basil and a little extra Parmesan after warming to revive the original flavors.
FAQs
Can I use other types of tomatoes instead of cherry tomatoes?
Absolutely! While cherry tomatoes are perfect for their sweetness and juiciness, you can also use grape tomatoes or diced Roma tomatoes. Just be sure to cook them enough for their juices to release and create a lovely sauce.
Is this recipe suitable for a vegan diet?
The core of this Tomato Basil Pasta Recipe is vegan-friendly; simply omit the Parmesan cheese or swap it for a plant-based cheese alternative to keep the same creamy finish.
Can I prepare the sauce in advance?
Yes! The tomato and garlic sauce can be made earlier in the day and kept refrigerated. Reheat gently and toss with freshly cooked pasta when ready to serve for the freshest taste and texture.
How spicy is the dish with the red pepper flakes?
The red pepper flakes add just a mild, background warmth that balances the sweetness of the tomatoes. You can easily leave them out if you prefer a completely mild dish or add more if you love heat.
What type of pasta works best?
This recipe shines with long pasta like spaghetti or linguine, as their shape holds the sauce beautifully. However, feel free to experiment with penne, farfalle, or even gluten-free options depending on your preference.
Final Thoughts
This Tomato Basil Pasta Recipe is a joyful celebration of simple, fresh ingredients working together to create something truly special and satisfying. It’s one of those dishes you’ll want to make again and again, whether for a quick solo meal or to share with loved ones. Give it a try and see how effortlessly vibrant, comforting, and downright delicious a few pantry staples can become!
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Tomato Basil Pasta Recipe
- Prep Time: 0h 10m
- Cook Time: 0h 15m
- Total Time: 0h 25m
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Tomato Basil Pasta recipe is a simple, fresh, and flavorful Italian-inspired dish that combines al dente pasta with sautéed garlic, juicy cherry tomatoes, and fragrant fresh basil. Enhanced with a touch of olive oil, red pepper flakes for subtle heat, and a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese, it’s perfect for a quick and satisfying weeknight dinner.
Ingredients
Pasta
- 12 ounces pasta (spaghetti, linguine, or your choice)
Sauce & Seasoning
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a hint of spice)
- 4 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1/2 cup fresh basil leaves, roughly chopped
- 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar (optional)
Finishing
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup of the pasta cooking water, then drain the pasta and set it aside.
- Sauté Garlic and Red Pepper Flakes: In a large skillet or sauté pan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes, if using, and sauté for about 1 minute until the garlic is fragrant and lightly golden.
- Cook Cherry Tomatoes: Add the halved cherry tomatoes to the pan with a pinch of salt and pepper. Cook the tomatoes for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they are softened and starting to release their juices.
- Combine Pasta and Tomatoes: Add the cooked pasta into the skillet, tossing it to combine with the tomatoes and garlic. If the mixture seems dry, gradually add some of the reserved pasta water until you reach your desired consistency.
- Add Basil and Balsamic Vinegar: Stir in the fresh basil leaves and balsamic vinegar, if using. Cook for another minute until the basil is wilted.
- Finish with Parmesan Cheese: Remove the pan from heat, and sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese over the pasta, tossing everything to mix well. Adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed.
- Serve: Serve the pasta warm, garnished with extra basil leaves and Parmesan, if desired.
Notes
- For extra protein, consider adding grilled chicken or shrimp.
- Use gluten-free pasta to make this recipe gluten-free.
- Fresh basil can be substituted with dried basil, but reduce quantity as it is more concentrated.
- The balsamic vinegar adds a subtle tang but can be omitted if preferred.
- Reserve pasta water is key to adjust the sauce’s consistency and helps the sauce stick to pasta better.
