This fresh tomato basil pasta is a light and flavorful dish that highlights the natural sweetness of ripe tomatoes and the aromatic essence of basil. It’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a summer gathering.
The recipe is simple and requires minimal cooking, allowing the ingredients to shine. You can customize it with additional vegetables or protein to suit your taste.
Ingredients for Fresh Tomato Basil Pasta
Creating a vibrant bowl of fresh tomato basil pasta begins with selecting the right ingredients.
You’ll need 12 ounces of spaghetti or your preferred pasta, which serves as the base for this dish.
Freshness is key, so opt for 4 cups of ripe tomatoes, diced, along with 1/4 cup of freshly chopped basil leaves.
Garlic adds depth to the flavor, so include 3 cloves, minced, and don’t forget 1/4 cup of olive oil to bring everything together.
Season with salt and black pepper to taste, and for those who enjoy a cheesy finish, have grated Parmesan cheese on hand for serving.
Preparation Steps
Preparing this dish is straightforward and quick, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
Start by cooking the spaghetti in a large pot of boiling salted water until it reaches al dente.
Once cooked, drain the pasta and set it aside while you work on the sauce.
In a skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat, then sauté the minced garlic until fragrant, being careful not to let it burn.
Next, stir in the diced tomatoes, salt, and pepper, letting them cook for about 5-7 minutes until they soften and release their juices.
Combining the Ingredients
With the sauce ready, it’s time to bring everything together.
Add the cooked spaghetti to the skillet and toss it with the tomato sauce, ensuring every strand is coated.
Remove the skillet from heat and gently stir in the fresh basil, which will add a burst of flavor and color to the dish.
Serving Suggestions
When it comes to serving, presentation matters.
Plate the pasta in a rustic bowl, allowing the vibrant colors to shine.
A sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese on top adds a savory touch, enhancing the overall flavor.
For an inviting atmosphere, serve the dish alongside fresh tomatoes and basil leaves on a wooden table, creating a warm and rustic feel.
Nutrition Information
This fresh tomato basil pasta is not only delicious but also nutritious.
Each serving, which accommodates four people, contains approximately 350 calories, with 12 grams of fat and 10 grams of protein.
The carbohydrates come in at around 50 grams, making it a satisfying meal option.
Variations and Customizations
This recipe is versatile, allowing for various customizations to suit individual tastes.
Feel free to add additional vegetables like spinach or zucchini for extra nutrients.
If you prefer a protein boost, consider incorporating grilled chicken or shrimp.
Experimenting with different herbs or spices can also elevate the dish, making it uniquely yours.
Easy Tomato Basil Pasta Recipe
This pasta dish features al dente spaghetti tossed with a vibrant sauce made from fresh tomatoes, garlic, and basil. The recipe takes about 20 minutes from start to finish and serves 4 people.
Ingredients
- 12 ounces spaghetti or your choice of pasta
- 4 cups ripe tomatoes, diced
- 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 1 teaspoon salt, adjust to taste
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- Grated Parmesan cheese for serving (optional)
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: In a large pot of boiling salted water, cook the spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Prepare the Sauce: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.
- Add Tomatoes: Stir in the diced tomatoes, salt, and pepper. Cook for about 5-7 minutes until the tomatoes soften and release their juices.
- Combine: Add the cooked spaghetti to the skillet and toss to combine with the tomato sauce. Remove from heat and stir in the fresh basil.
- Serve: Plate the pasta and top with grated Parmesan cheese if desired. Serve immediately.
Cook and Prep Times
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Servings: 4 servings
- Calories: 350kcal
- Fat: 12g
- Protein: 10g
- Carbohydrates: 50g