Tomato Basil Pasta Recipe

Get ready to fall head over heels for the ultimate Tomato Basil Pasta—a dish that delivers summer in every bite, whether it’s the middle of July or a chilly winter evening. This colorful bowl is pure Italian-inspired comfort: juicy tomatoes, fresh basil, and a pop of parmesan, all woven together with silky pasta. It’s a weeknight lifesaver and an impressive party pleaser, proof that a handful of humble ingredients can create magic. If you’ve been searching for a recipe loaded with flavor, speed, and heart, Tomato Basil Pasta is about to become your new signature dish.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of Tomato Basil Pasta is just how straightforward yet impactful every ingredient is. Each item brings something special to the table—think brightness from tomatoes, a savory base from onion and garlic, and an aromatic finish from freshly chopped basil. Let’s dive into what you’ll need and why.

• Olive oil: Adds richness and a fruity base that sets the tone for the sauce—go for extra-virgin if you can.
• Yellow onion: Softened onion gives the sauce extra sweetness and depth you don’t want to miss.
• Garlic: Minced garlic infuses every bite with classic Italian aroma and a gentle kick.
• Salt and pepper: Essential for bringing out all the lovely flavors and balancing the acidity of the tomatoes.
• Canned diced tomatoes: The star of our show—using canned tomatoes means you get rich flavor year-round, plus an irresistible chunky texture.
• Balsamic vinegar: Just a splash makes the tomatoes pop and adds subtle complexity.
• Pasta water: The secret weapon in Italian pasta—its starch helps bind the sauce to your noodles.
• Thin spaghetti or angel hair: These delicate pastas hug the sauce perfectly for the signature Tomato Basil Pasta bite.
• Fresh basil: Torn or chopped, basil gives that unmistakably fresh, peppery lift.
• Parmesan cheese: Grated over the top for salty, melty goodness you can’t skip.

How to Make Tomato Basil Pasta

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil, then add your spaghetti or angel hair. Follow the package instructions for al dente perfection—you want the noodles to still have a little bite, since they’ll finish cooking in the sauce later. Save at least half a cup of the pasta water before draining; it will help your sauce and pasta come together for that restaurant-quality finish.

Step 2: Sauté the Onion and Garlic

Warm up the olive oil in a big skillet over medium-low heat. Add your diced onion and garlic, tossing in a generous pinch of salt and pepper. Cook gently, stirring often, until the onions are tender and the whole kitchen smells irresistibly savory—about 5 minutes. The goal is mellow, sweet flavor, not browning.

Step 3: Add the Tomatoes and Balsamic Vinegar

Pour your drained tomatoes straight into the pan, followed by the balsamic vinegar. Stir well, then let everything simmer for 5 to 8 minutes. The sauce should thicken and deepen, and the balsamic will quietly sweeten the tomatoes while adding a gentle tangy note.

Step 4: Bring It All Together

Add about half a cup of your reserved pasta water to the bubbling tomato sauce. Now, toss in the drained pasta, then shower with the fresh basil and grated parmesan. Give everything a thorough toss so the noodles are slicked with sauce, basil is wilted, and cheese begins to melt. If it looks dry, sprinkle in a touch more pasta water until glossy.

Step 5: Taste and Serve

Have a quick taste—adjust salt, pepper, or basil as needed. Serve your Tomato Basil Pasta straight from the skillet, piled high and finished with a little extra basil and parmesan if you like. This dish is all about immediacy and freshness—dig in while it’s hot and fragrant!

How to Serve Tomato Basil Pasta

Garnishes

A big handful of torn basil leaves scattered right before serving brings a pop of color and that garden-fresh aroma. Don’t hold back on the grated parmesan, either—a little more on top gives salty, nutty flavor and looks inviting. For a bright twist, a quick drizzle of good olive oil or a crack of black pepper does the trick.

Side Dishes

Tomato Basil Pasta loves simple company—think garlic bread for mopping up sauce, a crisp green salad to balance flavors, or marinated olives for a Mediterranean flair. If you’re feeling extra, roasted vegetables like zucchini or eggplant make a hearty pairing for a complete meal.

Creative Ways to Present

For dinner parties, twirl the pasta into elegant nests and top each one with a big basil leaf and parmesan shavings. Family style? Serve the Tomato Basil Pasta straight from the skillet, spooning generous helpings for everyone. For something whimsical, try plating in colorful bowls and adding roasted cherry tomatoes for more vibrant pops of red and orange.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you find yourself with extra Tomato Basil Pasta, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It keeps beautifully for up to three days, making it a fab option for quick lunches or second-day dinners. The flavors even meld and deepen overnight!

Freezing

While fresh basil and tender pasta are best the day of, you can freeze leftovers in a pinch. Place cooled pasta in a freezer-safe bag or container—just know the noodles may soften a bit when reheated. For optimal texture, freeze the sauce alone and boil fresh pasta when ready to eat.

Reheating

To recapture that just-cooked magic, reheat Tomato Basil Pasta in a skillet with a splash of water or extra olive oil. Stir gently over medium-low heat until heated through, which helps refresh the sauce and keeps everything glossy and delicious.

FAQs

Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned?

Absolutely! When tomatoes are at their peak, substitute with about two pounds of chopped fresh tomatoes. They’ll need a few extra minutes to cook down, but offer a vibrant, summery flavor that makes Tomato Basil Pasta especially memorable.

Is this recipe vegetarian?

Yes, Tomato Basil Pasta is completely vegetarian. For a vegan version, simply skip the parmesan or swap it for your favorite plant-based cheese.

What type of pasta works best?

Thin spaghetti and angel hair are classic because they soak up the light sauce so well, but you could use linguine or even penne if that’s what you have. Just adjust the cooking time to your pasta shape of choice.

Can I make this gluten-free?

Definitely. Just use your preferred gluten-free pasta brand and keep everything else the same. The sauce and all the other elements are naturally gluten-free, making Tomato Basil Pasta easy to adapt.

How do I make it extra creamy?

For a creamy twist, finish the pasta with a few tablespoons of heavy cream or a scoop of ricotta cheese when tossing everything together. It changes the character but turns Tomato Basil Pasta into a rich, decadent treat.

Final Thoughts

There’s just something magical about bringing a simple, vibrant meal like Tomato Basil Pasta to your table. Whether you’re looking for a quick weekday dinner or impressing friends over wine, this dish never fails to make people smile. Give it a try—one forkful and you’ll see why this is a forever favorite!

Print