My tomato basil pasta is a simple pasta dish made with pantry staples plus ripe tomatoes, basil, and garlic, with the addition of Calabrian chili paste for a bold kick. It’s a no-fuss, flavor-packed pasta that’s perfect for busy weeknights when you want something quick and seriously delicious!
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This fresh tomato pasta is a straightforward recipe that just makes sense, especially on those days when you want something wholesome and flavorful with the ingredients you already have on hand.
I especially love making it in the summer, when tomatoes and basil are at their peak. Serve it with my savory zucchini tart on the side for a satisfying weeknight dinner!
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📖Why My Recipe Works
What sets my recipe apart from traditional fresh tomato pasta is the Calabrian chili. It adds a bold, slightly smoky flavor without being too spicy. Just enough to make things interesting without stealing the show.
🧾Ingredient Notes
- Fresh Tomatoes- Use any ripe, juicy tomatoes available. I like to use compari, Roma, or plum tomatoes, but cherry tomatoes will also work.
- Fresh Basil- Use fresh basil leaves and add them right at the end to keep them fresh and vibrant.
- Butter- Since you're using reserved salted pasta water, it's best to use unsalted butter so you have more control over the taste.
- Garlic- Let’s keep this recipe fresh—use fresh garlic cloves for the best flavor and aroma!
- Calabrian Chili Paste- If you don't have it on hand, you can add pinch of red pepper flakes or stir in a tablespoon of harissa for heat.
- Spaghetti- Use angel hair pasta for a lighter option, or stick with classic spaghetti. You can also swap in other long pastas like linguine or bucatini. You can also make this with gluten free pasta.
⏲️How to Make Tomato Basil Pasta
- Add the garlic and Calabrian chili to a skillet over medium heat. Cook just until the garlic begins to caramelize. Don't let it burn or it will turn bitter!
- Gently crush the fresh tomatoes as they cook to release their juices. This makes a rustic, chunky sauce that’s naturally sweet and full of texture.
- Toss the pasta and a splash of pasta water into the sauce, stirring until everything is evenly coated. Let it simmer together for a minute or two so the flavors come together and the sauce thickens just enough to cling to the noodles.
- Stir in the fresh basil off the heat just before serving. Taste and adjust with salt and pepper, add parmesan cheese, then serve immediately while warm!
🥗What to Serve with Tomato and Basil Pasta
You can’t go wrong with a side of garlic bread or baked crostini to soak up all that saucy goodness. For something lighter, try a fresh arugula salad, a simple Caprese salad, or roasted vegetables like carrots and asparagus to round out the meal.
👩🏻🍳 Expert Tip
Start with a splash (about ¼ cup) of reserved pasta water, then toss and add more as needed. You’re looking for a silky, lightly glossy sauce, not soupy.
More Pasta Recipes
🌡️Storing Leftovers
Store leftover pasta in an airtight container and keep in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat it over medium low heat on the stovetop or for 1-2 minutes in the microwave. Add a splash of water to loosen up the sauce, if needed.
Did you enjoy making this recipe? Show it some love with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ and leave a comment! Hungry for more FLAVORFUL recipes?
📖 Recipe Card
Easy Basil Tomato Pasta
Ingredients
- 12 ounces angle hair or spaghetti pasta regular or gluten free
- 2 Tablespoons olive oil
- 3 Tablespoons butter unsalted
- 4 garlic cloves thinly sliced
- 1 ½ teaspoon Calabrian chili paste or use ¼ to ½ teaspoon crushed red pepper
- 1 ½ pounds fresh tomatoes chopped
- ¾ cup pasta cooking water
- ¼ cup fresh basil minced
- Parmesan cheese for serving (optional)
Instructions
- Boil the pasta in salted water according to package directions, until just al dente. Reserve some pasta water for the sauce.12 ounces angle hair or spaghetti pasta, ¾ cup pasta cooking water
- In a large skillet over medium heat, heat the olive oil and butter. Once melted, add the sliced garlic and Calabrian chili, and sauté until just golden.2 Tablespoons olive oil, 3 Tablespoons butter, 4 garlic cloves, 1 ½ teaspoon Calabrian chili paste
- Stir in the fresh tomatoes. Cook for 5–7 minutes, using a wooden spoon to press the tomatoes until they break down into a saucy consistency.1 ½ pounds fresh tomatoes
- Add the cooked pasta and reserved pasta water. Toss well to coat, and simmer for 1–2 minutes to thicken slightly.12 ounces angle hair or spaghetti pasta, ¾ cup pasta cooking water
- Season to taste with salt and pepper, stir in the basil, and serve immediately.¼ cup fresh basil, Parmesan cheese
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