Description
A classic, simple, and fresh pasta dish made with ripe tomatoes, fragrant basil, garlic, and olive oil perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or light summer meal.
Ingredients
12 oz spaghetti
2 tbsp olive oil
3 cloves garlic, minced
4 cups cherry tomatoes, halved (or 4 large ripe tomatoes, diced)
1/2 tsp salt
1/4 tsp black pepper
1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (plus more for serving)
Instructions
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook spaghetti according to package directions until al dente.
2. While pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
3. Add garlic and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant.
4. Add tomatoes, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes; cook for 5–7 minutes until tomatoes break down and release juices.
5. Drain pasta, reserving 1/2 cup of pasta water.
6. Add pasta to the skillet with the tomatoes and toss to coat, adding reserved pasta water as needed to loosen the sauce.
7. Stir in fresh basil and Parmesan cheese.
8. Serve immediately, topped with extra Parmesan and basil if desired.
Notes
Use whole-wheat or gluten-free spaghetti for a healthier version.
Add grilled chicken or shrimp for extra protein.
A drizzle of balsamic glaze enhances the flavor beautifully.
- Prep Time: 10 mins
- Cook Time: 15 mins
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 1/2 cups
- Calories: 430
- Sugar: 8g
- Sodium: 420mg
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 62g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 14g
- Cholesterol: 10mg
Keywords: tomato basil pasta, easy spaghetti, fresh basil recipe, vegetarian pasta