Name: Tomato Basil Pasta
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 450 g spaghetti or spaghettini; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 3 cups cherry or grape tomatoes; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tablespoon salted butter; 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes; 1/2 cup fresh basil; 1/4 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese; Salt, to taste; Freshly cracked black pepper, to taste

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Tomato Basil Pasta is a fresh and comforting dish that combines tender spaghetti with juicy blistered tomatoes, fragrant garlic, fresh basil, and Parmesan cheese. I love making this recipe when I want a simple yet satisfying meal that comes together quickly. It delivers bright flavors and a light sauce that perfectly coats every strand of pasta.

Tomato Basil Pasta

Ingredients

(Tip: You'll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

450 g spaghetti or spaghettini

2 tablespoons olive oil

3 cups cherry or grape tomatoes

4 cloves garlic, minced

1 tablespoon salted butter

¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes

½ cup fresh basil

¼ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese

Salt and freshly cracked black pepper

Directions

I bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the pasta until al dente.

I reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining the pasta.

I heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.

I add the tomatoes and cook them for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they blister and soften.

I stir in the garlic, butter, and red pepper flakes, then cook for 1 minute until fragrant.

I add a splash of the reserved pasta water to create a light sauce.

I add the cooked pasta, fresh basil, and Parmesan cheese.

I toss everything together, adding more pasta water as needed until the pasta is evenly coated.

I season with salt and freshly cracked black pepper.

I serve the pasta warm and enjoy immediately.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 4 servings

Prep Time: 10 minutes

Cooking Time: 20 minutes

Total Time: 30 minutes

Calories: 556 kcal per serving

Variations

I sometimes add grilled chicken for extra protein and a heartier meal.

I like using whole wheat pasta for a more nutritious option.

I occasionally stir in fresh spinach during the final toss for added color and nutrients.

I swap Parmesan with Pecorino Romano when I want a sharper, saltier flavor.

I add fresh mozzarella pearls for a creamy twist.

I increase the red pepper flakes when I crave extra heat.

Storage/Reheating

I store leftover pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, I add a small splash of water or olive oil to help loosen the sauce and prevent the pasta from drying out. I warm it gently in a skillet over medium-low heat or microwave it in short intervals until heated through.

FAQs

Can I use regular tomatoes instead of cherry tomatoes?

I can substitute diced Roma or vine-ripened tomatoes if cherry tomatoes are unavailable. I simply cook them until softened and slightly reduced.

Can I make this pasta ahead of time?

I find that this dish tastes best when served fresh, but I can prepare it a few hours ahead and gently reheat it before serving.

What type of pasta works best for this recipe?

I usually use spaghetti or spaghettini, but linguine, fettuccine, or even penne work well.

Can I make this recipe vegetarian?

Yes, I can easily keep this recipe vegetarian by using a vegetarian-friendly Parmesan cheese.

Why should I reserve pasta water?

I reserve pasta water because its starch helps create a silky sauce that coats the pasta beautifully and brings all the ingredients together.

Conclusion

Tomato Basil Pasta is one of my favorite quick and flavorful meals. The combination of sweet blistered tomatoes, aromatic garlic, fresh basil, and Parmesan creates a dish that feels both comforting and elegant. I love how easily it comes together with pantry staples, making it a perfect choice for busy weeknights or casual family dinners. Whether I enjoy it as written or customize it with my favorite additions, this pasta always delivers fresh, satisfying flavor.

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Tomato Basil Pasta

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Author: Cheryl
Total Time: 30 minutes
Yield: 4 servings
Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

Tomato Basil Pasta is a fresh and comforting dish featuring tender spaghetti tossed with blistered tomatoes, garlic, basil, and Parmesan cheese. A light, silky sauce coats every strand for a simple yet flavorful meal.

Instructions

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the pasta until al dente.
Reserve 1 cup of pasta water, then drain the pasta.
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
Add the tomatoes and cook for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until blistered and softened.
Stir in the garlic, butter, and red pepper flakes and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
Add a splash of the reserved pasta water to create a light sauce.
Add the cooked pasta, fresh basil, and Parmesan cheese.
Toss everything together, adding more pasta water as needed until evenly coated.
Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
Serve warm and enjoy immediately.