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15-Minute Tomato Basil Pasta

Kathleen R. Coffey
This Tomato Basil Pasta is a classic Italian dish that combines fresh tomatoes, fragrant basil, and perfectly cooked pasta for a quick, flavorful, and nutritious meal.
Ready in just 15 minutes, it’s perfect for busy nights or effortless entertaining.
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Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 15 minutes
Course Main Course, Pasta
Cuisine Italian
Servings 4

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.