Irresistible Tomato Basil Pasta Recipe – So Good, You'll Want to Make it Every Night

If you're looking for a fresh, vibrant, and easy pasta dish that will have you coming back for seconds, this Tomato Basil Pasta Recipe is the answer. With juicy ripe tomatoes, fragrant basil, and a hint of garlic, this dish is bursting with bold flavors, yet remains light and refreshing. It’s the kind of meal that will have you saying, "It’s so good it makes you want to slap your mama!"

Photo byInsanelyGoodRecipes

I stumbled upon this recipe on the Insanely Good Recipes website, and it quickly became a staple in my kitchen. Now, I’m excited to share this amazing recipe with you!

A Dish Close to My Heart

Tomato Basil Pasta holds a special place in my life because it’s the dish that introduced me to the magic of simple, fresh ingredients coming together to create something extraordinary. It's become my go-to for dinner parties, lazy weeknight meals, or when I want to impress without spending hours in the kitchen. There's something so comforting about the balance of tangy tomatoes and sweet basil, with a kick from garlic and red pepper flakes.

If you're a fan of Italian cuisine or simply love a flavorful pasta dish, you're going to adore this recipe!

The Mediterranean Magic Behind the Dish

This dish draws from the heart of Mediterranean cuisine, where fresh, in-season ingredients are key. Tomatoes and basil, both classic staples in Italian cooking, are the stars of the show. The addition of olive oil, garlic, and Parmesan cheese brings out an authentic taste, making this pasta a go-to for anyone craving a taste of Italy.

Did you know? Basil has long been considered a symbol of love in Italy, making this the perfect dish to serve for date night. Plus, the combination of tomatoes and garlic is a powerhouse of health benefits, from promoting heart health to boosting your immune system.

Let’s Get Cooking!

Ingredients You'll Need:

• 1 lb spaghetti or angel hair pasta
• 2 lbs ripe tomatoes (Roma or cherry tomatoes work best), diced
• 1/2 cup fresh basil leaves, shredded or chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
• 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
• 1 tsp balsamic vinegar
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Cook the Pasta: In a large pot of boiling salted water, cook the pasta until it's al dente (firm to the bite). Don't forget to reserve 1/2 cup of the pasta cooking water before draining it.
2. Sauté the Garlic: While the pasta is cooking, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes (if you like a little heat) and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
3. Make the Tomato Sauce: Add the diced tomatoes, 1/2 teaspoon salt, and 1/4 teaspoon black pepper to the skillet. Cook, stirring occasionally, for 6-8 minutes, allowing the tomatoes to soften and release their juices. Crush them gently with the back of a spoon for a saucy consistency.
4. Add Balsamic: Stir in the balsamic vinegar, which adds a tangy depth to the sauce. Adjust the seasoning with more salt and pepper, if needed.
5. Toss the Pasta: Add the drained pasta to the skillet, tossing to coat it in the tomato sauce. If the sauce seems too thick, add some of the reserved pasta water to help it cling to the pasta.
6. Finish with Basil and Cheese: Remove the skillet from the heat and stir in the shredded basil and 1/4 cup of Parmesan cheese. The heat from the pasta will gently wilt the basil, releasing its aroma.
7. Serve and Garnish: Serve immediately, topping each plate with the remaining Parmesan cheese. For an extra drizzle of olive oil, feel free to add that finishing touch!

Pro Tips for the Perfect Tomato Basil Pasta:

• Use Fresh Ingredients: The best Tomato Basil Pasta relies on fresh, ripe tomatoes and fragrant basil. This will give your dish the most vibrant flavor possible.
• Cheese It Up: Parmesan is the classic choice, but for a creamier, richer texture, you can swap in Pecorino Romano or even a bit of fresh mozzarella.
• Gluten-Free Option: Use your favorite gluten-free pasta, and the dish is just as delicious!
• Add Some Protein: Want to make this a heartier meal? Toss in some grilled chicken, shrimp, or even crispy pancetta for a meaty twist.

The Perfect Pairings

Tomato Basil Pasta is a versatile dish that pairs wonderfully with a crisp green salad or a side of garlic bread. If you want to keep things light, a simple salad with a lemon vinaigrette will complement the bright flavors of the pasta. A chilled glass of Sauvignon Blanc or a light red like Pinot Noir also works beautifully to round out the meal.

Call to Action

Did you love this Tomato Basil Pasta Recipe as much as I do? If so, don’t forget to leave a comment, share it with your friends, and follow me for more easy, delicious recipes! And once again, big thanks to Insanely Good Recipes for the original inspiration!