Tomato Basil Pasta is a timeless dish celebrated for its simplicity and vibrant flavors.
What makes this recipe truly stand out is its ability to combine fresh, wholesome ingredients into a satisfying, meatless meal that’s both nourishing and easy to prepare.
15-Minute Tomato Basil Pasta
Equipment
- 1 large pot
- 1 Non-stick skillet
- 1 Non-stick skillet
- 1 Colander
- Measuring Cups and Spoons
Ingredients
- 8 oz 220 g pasta (spaghetti, penne, or preferred shape)
- 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil plus extra for serving
- 3 garlic cloves minced or grated
- ¼ tsp chili flakes adjust to taste
- 2 ½ cups 350 g cherry tomatoes, halved
- ¼ tsp fine salt plus extra to taste
- ⅛ tsp freshly cracked black pepper
- 1 cup fresh basil leaves shredded
- Grated Parmesan cheese optional for serving
Instructions
- Prepare the Pasta Water and Boil Pasta: Start by filling a large pot with plenty of water—enough to allow the pasta to move freely while cooking. Generously salt the water; this is your chance to season the pasta itself, which enhances its flavor. Place the pot on high heat and bring the water to a rolling boil. Once boiling, add your choice of pasta—spaghetti, penne, or any preferred shape—and cook it according to the package directions until it reaches an al dente texture. Al dente means the pasta should be tender yet firm to the bite, which ensures it will not become mushy when tossed with the sauce later. As the pasta cooks, prepare to reserve some of the pasta water before draining, as this starchy liquid will help bind the sauce and pasta together for a luscious finish.
- Reserve Pasta Cooking Water: Before draining the pasta, carefully scoop out about one cup of the hot pasta water using a heatproof measuring cup or ladle. This reserved water contains starch released by the pasta during cooking and acts as a natural thickener and emulsifier when you combine it with the sauce later. Set this water aside, but keep it hot. Drain the pasta promptly in a colander, shaking gently to remove excess water, and set the drained pasta aside while you prepare the sauce.
- Sauté Garlic and Chili Flakes to Build Flavor: Place a large non-stick skillet over medium heat and pour in two tablespoons of high-quality extra virgin olive oil. Once the oil is warm but not smoking, add the minced or grated garlic cloves and the chili flakes. Stir constantly with a wooden spoon or silicone spatula to avoid burning the garlic, which can turn bitter. Sauté this mixture for about one minute until the garlic becomes fragrant and slightly golden, releasing its aromatic oils. This step is essential as it creates the flavorful base that will infuse the entire dish with warmth and a subtle kick.
- Cook the Tomatoes into a Thickened Sauce: Next, add the halved cherry tomatoes to the skillet, followed by the quarter teaspoon of fine salt and freshly cracked black pepper to taste. Increase the heat to medium-high and cook the tomatoes uncovered. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking, and gently press some tomatoes against the pan with your spatula to help them burst. This cooking process should last about six to seven minutes. During this time, the tomatoes will soften and release their juices, which will begin to reduce and thicken, concentrating the flavors and creating a vibrant, naturally sweet sauce. Keep an eye on the heat to ensure the tomatoes caramelize slightly without burning.
- Add Fresh Basil and Adjust Seasoning: Once the tomatoes have softened and the sauce has thickened to your liking, turn off the heat and stir in the shredded fresh basil leaves.The residual warmth will gently wilt the basil, preserving its bright flavor and aroma without cooking it to dullness. Taste the sauce carefully and adjust the seasoning by adding more salt or pepper if necessary. This is the moment to tailor the sauce to your preference, balancing the natural sweetness of the tomatoes with the seasoning and mild heat of the chili flakes.
- Combine Pasta and Sauce, Toss to Coat: With the sauce ready, return the drained pasta to the skillet. If the pasta was drained separately, add it back to the pan to marry with the sauce properly. Toss the pasta and sauce together using tongs or a large spoon, ensuring every strand or piece is evenly coated. If the sauce seems too thick or the pasta looks dry, gradually add small amounts of the reserved starchy pasta water, stirring continuously, until the sauce reaches a smooth, silky consistency that clings perfectly to the pasta. Place the skillet back over medium-high heat for about 30 seconds while tossing gently to marry the flavors completely and warm the pasta through.
- Plate and Finish with Garnishes: Turn off the heat and immediately transfer the pasta onto serving plates or a large serving bowl. For a luxurious finish, drizzle an extra splash of high-quality extra virgin olive oil over the top to add richness and depth. Garnish with additional fresh basil leaves for color and aroma, and sprinkle with freshly grated Parmesan cheese if desired, adding a savory, creamy dimension to the dish. Serve the pasta hot and enjoy the harmonious blend of fresh, simple ingredients that make this recipe a go-to favorite for effortless, delicious meals.
Notes
- Use ripe, fresh cherry tomatoes for the best natural sweetness and flavor. If unavailable, Roma tomatoes make a great substitute after removing seeds and excess water.
- Reserve some pasta water before draining; the starch helps create a silky sauce that clings beautifully to the pasta.
- Adjust chili flakes to your heat preference; start small and increase gradually for a subtle kick without overpowering the fresh tomato flavor.
- Fresh basil should be added at the end of cooking to preserve its bright color and fragrant aroma.
- Parmesan cheese is optional but adds a lovely savory note that complements the sweet tomatoes and fresh herbs perfectly.
The star ingredients—ripe cherry tomatoes and fragrant basil—offer a wealth of antioxidants and vitamins, while the olive oil provides heart-healthy monounsaturated fats.
This dish is naturally rich in fiber from the pasta and tomatoes, which supports digestion and sustained energy.
Additionally, it offers moderate plant-based protein, especially when paired with a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese.
Its quick 15-minute preparation makes it an ideal weeknight dinner, while the fresh flavors ensure it never feels mundane.
Whether you’re cooking for yourself or feeding a family, this pasta delivers comfort, nutrition, and simplicity in every bite.
Must-Have Tools for Perfect Results
Large Pot
Essential for boiling pasta to the perfect al dente texture. A roomy pot ensures even cooking and prevents sticking, making your pasta preparation smooth and hassle-free.
Non-stick Skillet
Ideal for cooking the tomato basil sauce evenly without burning. The non-stick surface allows the sauce to reduce beautifully and makes cleanup effortless, enhancing your cooking experience.
Garlic Press
Quickly minces garlic to release its intense aroma and flavor, saving time and ensuring a uniform garlic texture that blends seamlessly into the sauce.
Colander
A sturdy colander is indispensable for draining pasta while reserving some of the starchy cooking water, a secret ingredient for emulsifying the sauce and achieving that perfect silky finish.
Measuring Cups and Spoons
Accuracy in seasoning and ingredient quantities is key to balancing flavors. These tools ensure you get the right amounts every time, enhancing consistency in your cooking.
Chef’s Secrets for Flavorful Pasta
Creating a standout tomato basil pasta is all about layering flavors and managing heat carefully.
The gentle sauté of garlic and chili flakes in quality extra virgin olive oil releases a fragrant base that infuses the sauce.
Cooking cherry tomatoes until they burst ensures natural sweetness and a luscious sauce texture, while reducing excess water concentrates flavors without added thickening agents.
Saving and using the pasta cooking water is a crucial chef’s tip: the starch helps emulsify the sauce, creating a glossy, clingy coating on every strand of pasta.
Adding fresh basil off the heat preserves its vibrant green color and fresh herbal aroma, elevating the dish visually and aromatically.
These techniques, though simple, make a dramatic difference in flavor and presentation, bringing a restaurant-quality touch to an everyday meal.
Serving Suggestions for Best Experience
This tomato basil pasta shines as a wholesome main course for lunch or dinner.
Pair it with a crisp green salad dressed lightly with lemon vinaigrette to add a refreshing contrast.
For added protein, serve alongside grilled chicken or roasted shrimp.
A crusty baguette or garlic bread is perfect for soaking up every last drop of sauce.
For a light, vegetarian meal, a side of roasted vegetables or a simple caprese salad complements the fresh, vibrant flavors of the pasta.
Finish the meal with a light dessert like fresh berries or sorbet to balance the acidity of the tomatoes.
Storage Tips for Freshness and Flavor
Tomato basil pasta is best enjoyed fresh, as the bright flavors and textures are at their peak immediately after cooking.
However, you can store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
When reheating, add a splash of olive oil or reserved pasta water to loosen the sauce and warm gently on the stovetop to avoid drying out.
Avoid freezing this dish, as the delicate tomatoes and fresh basil lose their texture and vibrant flavor during freezing and thawing.
Always add fresh basil after reheating if possible to revive the herbal freshness.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use dried basil instead of fresh?
Fresh basil is highly recommended because it offers a bright, aromatic flavor that dried basil cannot replicate.
If fresh is unavailable, add dried basil earlier in the cooking process to allow it to rehydrate, but expect a milder taste.
2. What pasta types work best for this recipe?
This recipe works well with long noodles like spaghetti or linguine and short shapes like penne or rigatoni.
Choose pasta with ridges or tubes to better hold the sauce for maximum flavor in every bite.
3. How do I make this recipe vegan?
Simply omit the Parmesan cheese or substitute with a vegan cheese alternative or nutritional yeast to add a cheesy flavor while keeping the dish plant-based.
4. Can I prepare the sauce in advance?
Yes, you can make the tomato basil sauce a day ahead and store it in the refrigerator.
Reheat gently and toss with freshly cooked pasta for convenience without sacrificing flavor.
5. How spicy is the dish with chili flakes?
The chili flakes add a subtle warmth but not intense heat. You can easily adjust the amount to suit your spice tolerance—from mild to moderately spicy.
