Irresistible Tomato Pasta Recipe That Warms the Soul

There’s something about tomato pasta that instantly elevates your mood. The vibrant red sauce, with its fresh herbs mingling together, creates a symphony of flavors that dance on your taste buds. Picture a steaming bowl of perfectly cooked pasta, slathered in a luscious tomato sauce that promises to hug you like your favorite sweater on chilly evenings.

Every time I whip up this dish, I’m transported back to my childhood kitchen, where the aroma of garlic and tomatoes simmering filled the air, making it nearly impossible to wait for dinner. Tomato pasta is not just a meal; it’s an experience that brings families together around the dinner table, perfect for cozy nights or impromptu gatherings.

I still remember the first time I made this for my friends; their faces lit up like Christmas trees when they took their first bite!

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

• Pasta: Choose any type you love—spaghetti, penne, or fusilli all work wonderfully for soaking up the sauce.

• Fresh Tomatoes: Opt for ripe tomatoes to enhance the flavor; heirloom varieties are particularly delightful.

• Garlic: Fresh garlic cloves add depth; avoid pre-minced garlic for the best taste.

• Olive Oil: Extra virgin olive oil brings richness; drizzle some over before serving for added flavor.

• Basil: Fresh basil leaves elevate the dish with a fragrant note; chop them just before serving for maximum aroma.

• Parmesan Cheese: Grate fresh parmesan over your serving for a creamy finish that complements the tomato flavor beautifully.

• Salt and Pepper: Essential for seasoning; adjust according to your preference as you taste along the way.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Let’s Make it Together

Prepare Your Ingredients: Start by gathering all your ingredients on the counter. Dice your fresh tomatoes and mince garlic while dreaming about how amazing your kitchen will smell.

Sauté Garlic and Tomatoes: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat until shimmering. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant and golden brown—about 1 minute—being careful not to burn it.

Add Tomatoes and Simmer: Toss in your diced tomatoes and season with salt and pepper. Stir well and let it simmer for about 15 minutes until thickened, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.

Cook Pasta Al Dente: In a separate pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add pasta of choice and cook according to package instructions until al dente—tender but slightly firm when you bite into it.

Combine Pasta with Sauce: Drain the cooked pasta (reserve a cup of pasta water) and add it directly into your skillet with tomato sauce. Toss everything together, adding reserved pasta water if needed for creaminess.

Add Fresh Basil and Serve!: Stir in chopped basil right before serving for an aromatic touch. Dish out generous portions onto plates, sprinkle with freshly grated parmesan cheese, and enjoy every last bite!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by boiling salted water for the pasta. While it’s cooking, sauté garlic in olive oil, add tomatoes, and let them simmer. Combine everything when the pasta is al dente for a perfect blend of flavors.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap out regular pasta for whole wheat or gluten-free options. You can also toss in some veggies like spinach or mushrooms for added nutrition and flavor.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftover tomato pasta in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat on the stovetop with a splash of water to keep it moist and flavorful.

Cooking tomato pasta always reminds me of my grandmother’s kitchen, where her lively stories were just as savory as her sauce.

FAQ

What type of tomatoes are best for tomato pasta?

Use ripe Roma tomatoes or San Marzano varieties for a rich flavor.

Can I make tomato pasta vegan?

Absolutely! Just omit cheese or use vegan alternatives without sacrificing flavor.

How long does it take to cook the pasta?

Typically, it takes about 8-10 minutes to cook pasta until al dente.

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Tomato Pasta Recipe

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• Author: Rachel Lawson
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Yield: Serves 4

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Description

Indulge in the warmth of homemade tomato pasta, a comforting dish that unites rich flavors and fresh ingredients. This quick and easy recipe features ripe tomatoes simmered with garlic, perfectly coated over your favorite pasta. Ideal for bustling weeknights or cozy gatherings, every bite promises to bring joy and nostalgia.

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Ingredients

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• 8 oz spaghetti
• 4 ripe tomatoes, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
• 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• Salt and pepper to taste

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Instructions

1. Prepare your ingredients by dicing tomatoes and mincing garlic.
2. In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Sauté garlic until golden brown.
3. Add diced tomatoes, salt, and pepper; let simmer for 15 minutes until thickened.
4. Cook spaghetti in salted boiling water according to package instructions until al dente.
5. Drain the pasta (reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water) and combine it with the sauce in the skillet.
6. Stir in chopped basil and add reserved pasta water if needed for creaminess.
7. Serve topped with grated Parmesan cheese.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Sautéing
• Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 350
• Sugar: 5g
• Sodium: 300mg
• Fat: 10g
• Saturated Fat: 2g
• Unsaturated Fat: 6g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 53g
• Fiber: 3g
• Protein: 12g
• Cholesterol: 10mg