Fresh Tomato Pasta

Hiro

| 12-11-2026

· Cate team

Tomato Basil Pasta is a delicious Italian-inspired dish featuring tender pasta, juicy cherry tomatoes, fresh basil, and aromatic garlic. The ingredients come together to create a flavorful sauce that is light, fresh, and satisfying.

As the tomatoes cook, they release natural juices that coat the pasta beautifully. Finished with olive oil and grated Parmesan cheese, this dish is perfect for a quick lunch or dinner. This easy recipe makes four servings and takes approximately 15 minutes to prepare and cook.

What Is Tomato Basil Pasta?

Tomato Basil Pasta is a simple dish that combines fresh tomatoes with fragrant basil and cooked pasta. Cherry tomatoes are especially convenient because they soften quickly and create a naturally juicy sauce. Garlic adds a savory flavor, while olive oil brings everything together.

Spaghetti, penne, and macaroni are all suitable choices. Fresh basil is added near the end of cooking to preserve its pleasant aroma and flavor.

Ingredients

For the Pasta:

- 220 g dried pasta

- 2 liters water

- 1 tablespoon salt

For the Tomato Basil Sauce:

- 2 tablespoons pure olive oil

- 3 garlic cloves, minced

- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes, optional

- 350 g cherry tomatoes, halved

- 1/4 teaspoon fine salt

- 1/8 teaspoon ground black pepper

- 1 cup fresh basil leaves, thinly sliced

- 30 g grated Parmesan cheese, optional

- 1–3 tablespoons reserved pasta water, as needed

Preparation and Cooking Time

- Preparation time: 5 minutes

- Cooking time: 10 minutes

- Total time: 15 minutes

- Servings: 4

Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients

Wash 350 g of cherry tomatoes and cut them in half. Peel and mince 3 garlic cloves. Rinse 1 cup of fresh basil leaves, dry them, and slice them into thin strips. Grate 30 g of Parmesan cheese if desired. Measure all seasonings and olive oil before cooking.

Step 2: Boil the Pasta Water

Pour 2 liters of water into a large saucepan and bring it to a boil over high heat. Add 1 tablespoon of salt and stir. Add 220 g of dried pasta, stirring immediately to prevent sticking.

Step 3: Cook and Drain the Pasta

Cook the pasta according to the package instructions until tender but slightly firm. Before draining, reserve 1 cup of cooking water. Drain the pasta without rinsing it. The starchy water will help the sauce coat the noodles later.

Step 4: Cook the Garlic

While the pasta cooks, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and optional red pepper flakes. Stir for 30–60 seconds until fragrant. Avoid browning the garlic too much, as it can develop a bitter taste.

Step 5: Prepare the Tomato Sauce

Add the halved cherry tomatoes, 1/4 teaspoon of salt, and 1/8 teaspoon of black pepper. Increase the heat to medium-high and cook for 6–7 minutes, stirring occasionally.

Gently press some tomatoes with a spoon to release their juices. Continue cooking until they soften and the liquid becomes slightly thicker.

Step 6: Add the Fresh Basil

Reduce the heat to medium-low. Add the sliced basil and stir for 20–30 seconds. Taste the sauce and adjust the seasoning if necessary. Keep the mixture juicy enough to coat the pasta.

Step 7: Combine the Pasta and Sauce

Transfer the drained pasta into the skillet. Toss thoroughly until the noodles are coated with tomato sauce. If the mixture looks dry, add reserved pasta water one tablespoon at a time.

Cook for approximately 30 seconds while stirring continuously. The sauce should look lightly glossy and cling to the pasta.

Step 8: Finish and Serve

Turn off the heat and divide the pasta among four plates. Add grated Parmesan cheese, a little extra olive oil, and a few fresh basil leaves if desired. Serve immediately while warm.

Helpful Cooking Tips

If cherry tomatoes are unavailable, approximately six medium tomatoes can replace them. Remove excess seeds, cut the tomatoes into small cubes, and cook until the extra liquid reduces.

Add pasta water gradually rather than all at once to avoid making the sauce watery. Fresh basil should also be added near the end to preserve its fragrance.

Final Thoughts

Tomato Basil Pasta is a practical homemade meal that combines fresh ingredients with simple cooking techniques. With juicy tomatoes, fragrant basil, and tender pasta, it offers satisfying flavor without complicated preparation. Follow these steps to create a delicious meal in approximately 15 minutes.

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Video by Daen's Kitchen