pasta and tomato recipe

Written ByJenny Smyth Posted on
pasta and tomato recipe
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The Best pasta and tomato recipe

I have been making this pasta and tomato recipe for years, and it’s still a favorite in our household. It’s a simple yet flavorful dish that never fails to please. I love how the sweetness of the tomatoes pairs with the savory flavor of the pasta.

The key to this recipe is using high-quality ingredients, especially the tomatoes. I like to use fresh, vine-ripened tomatoes for the best flavor. This recipe has its roots in Italian cuisine, where pasta and tomato sauce are staples.

But I’ve adapted it to suit our family’s taste, adding a bit of garlic and herbs for extra flavor. My kids love helping me make this dish, as it’s easy to customize with their favorite toppings. We often have it as a weeknight dinner or serve it at family gatherings.

One of the best things about this recipe is its health benefits. Tomatoes are rich in antioxidants and lycopene, while pasta provides complex carbohydrates. As a busy mom, I appreciate how quick and easy this recipe is to make on a tight schedule.

I’ve experimented with different types of pasta over the years, but my family prefers traditional spaghetti or linguine. The long strands hold onto the sauce perfectly, and it’s easy to twirl around your fork.

Classic Tomato Pasta

Classic Tomato Pasta

4.6 from 1918 votes

A simple and satisfying pasta dish made with ripe tomatoes, garlic, and basil. This recipe highlights the natural sweetness of tomatoes in a light, flavorful sauce.

Prep Time10 mins
Cook Time25 mins
Resting Time0 mins
Total Time35 mins
Servings: 4Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 380 kcal

🥘Ingredients

For the Pasta

12 oz (340 g) dried spaghetti or linguine
1 tablespoon salt

For the Tomato Sauce

2 tablespoons olive oil
4 cloves garlic, thinly sliced
2 lbs (900 g) ripe Roma tomatoes, diced
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, torn
Grated Parmesan cheese for serving

👨‍🍳Directions

1Bring a large pot of water to a rolling boil over high heat.
2Add 1 tablespoon of salt and the pasta, then cook until al dente according to package directions, usually 8 to 10 minutes.
3Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
4While the pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
5Add the sliced garlic and saute until fragrant and lightly golden, about 1 minute, being careful not to burn it.
6Add the diced tomatoes, salt, and pepper to the skillet.
7Cook over medium-high heat, stirring occasionally, until the tomatoes break down and release their juices, about 8 to 10 minutes.
8The sauce should thicken slightly and look glossy.
9Reduce the heat to low and stir in the torn basil leaves.
10Add the drained pasta to the skillet and toss well to coat, adding reserved pasta water a few tablespoons at a time if the sauce seems too thick.
11Cook for 1 to 2 minutes until the pasta absorbs some sauce.
12Serve immediately in warm bowls, topped with grated Parmesan cheese.
13Garnish with extra basil if desired.

🔧Equipment

Large pot
Large skillet
Colander
Chef’s knife
Cutting board

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 380 kcal🧈Total Fat: 10g💛Saturated Fat: 2g❤️Cholesterol: 5mg🧂Sodium: 600mg🌾Total Carbs: 62g🥦Dietary Fiber: 5g🍬Sugars: 8g🥩Protein: 12g

📝Notes

For a richer sauce, add a tablespoon of tomato paste along with the diced tomatoes. You can also use canned whole peeled tomatoes, crushed by hand, if fresh tomatoes are not in season.

Watch Video Of How Classic Tomato Pasta Works

This pasta and tomato recipe is always a good idea for any occasion – whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a family gathering.

We like serving it with some crusty bread on the side for dipping into the savory sauce.

For storage ideas, try freezing individual portions for later use or storing leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Tomato Pasta

Q1: What type of pasta should I use for this recipe?

A1: For this recipe, you can use any type of long, thin pasta such as spaghetti or linguine. These shapes will hold onto the sauce perfectly and make it easy to twirl around your fork.

Q2: Can I use canned tomatoes instead of fresh?

A2: While canned tomatoes can be a convenient option, we recommend using fresh, vine-ripened tomatoes for the best flavor. However, if you don’t have access to fresh tomatoes or prefer a quicker option, canned tomatoes will still yield a delicious result.

Q3: How do I store leftover pasta and tomato sauce?

A3: Store leftover pasta and tomato sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days or freeze for later use. Reheat by warming over low heat until hot through.

Q4: Can I add other ingredients to customize this recipe?

A4: Absolutely! Feel free to add your favorite ingredients such as meatballs, sausage, or vegetables to make this recipe your own.

Q5: How do I reheat leftover pasta without overcooking it?

A5: To reheat leftover pasta without overcooking it, warm it gently over low heat in a pan with some added liquid such as broth or water until hot through.

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