Easy Angel Hair Pasta With Tomato Basil Sauce

Name: Easy Angel Hair Pasta With Tomato Basil Sauce
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 8 oz angel hair pasta; 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped; 2 tablespoons olive oil; Salt to taste; Pepper to taste; Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)

Highlighted under: Easy Ideas

I absolutely love making this Easy Angel Hair Pasta with Tomato Basil Sauce because it’s quick, delicious, and feels like a warm hug on a plate. The combination of fresh tomatoes and fragrant basil creates a vibrant dish that not only satisfies hunger but also nourishes the soul. In just a matter of minutes, I can whip up a restaurant-quality meal that impresses everyone around the table. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to showcase seasonal produce. Let’s dive into this simple yet satisfying recipe!

Created by

Una Merrick

Last updated on 2026-02-24T05:45:36.628Z

Making this Angel Hair Pasta with Tomato Basil Sauce was truly a delight. I found that using ripe, in-season tomatoes really enhances the flavor of the sauce. The fresh basil adds a fragrant touch that brings everything together beautifully. I decided to sauté the garlic first, which helps to deepen the flavor of the sauce without overwhelming it.

While testing this recipe, I learned that tossing the pasta with the sauce off the heat allows the sauce to cling beautifully to the noodles. It’s a simple technique, but it makes a world of difference in presentation and taste!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Quick cooking time makes it perfect for weeknight dinners
Fresh ingredients create a burst of flavors
Comforting yet elegant enough for special occasions

Ingredient Insights

Fresh cherry tomatoes are the star of this dish, offering a natural sweetness and acidity that enhances the overall flavor. Ensure you choose ripe, vibrant tomatoes for the best results. If you're in a pinch, canned diced tomatoes can serve as a substitute, but I recommend using fresh whenever possible for that burst of flavor. You can also experiment with different tomato varieties for unique taste profiles.

Basil is another crucial component, adding an aromatic layer to the dish that complements the tomatoes' sweetness. Always opt for fresh basil over dried, as its flavor is significantly more vibrant. To preserve its freshness, add basil leaves towards the end of cooking so they retain their bright color and aroma. If you don't have basil, consider using fresh parsley or oregano, which can also impart delicious flavors.

Perfecting the Pasta

Angel hair pasta is known for its delicate texture, which becomes even more delightful when cooked correctly. Keep a close eye while boiling, as it cooks quickly—usually in 2 to 4 minutes. Overcooking can lead to a mushy texture, so aim for al dente—cooked but firm to the bite. To check, taste a strand a minute or two before the package's recommended cooking time.

When draining the pasta, it's crucial not to rinse it, as this removes the starch that helps thicken the sauce. Instead, reserve some pasta cooking water, which is rich in starch and acts as a perfect emulsifier for creating that silky sauce. If you find your pasta sauce too thick later, this reserved water will help loosen it without diluting the flavor.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to create your delicious dish:

Ingredients

8 oz angel hair pasta
2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
3 cloves garlic, minced
1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
2 tablespoons olive oil
Salt to taste
Pepper to taste
Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)

Now that you have all your ingredients ready, let’s move on to the cooking process!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create your Angel Hair Pasta with Tomato Basil Sauce:

Cook the Pasta

In a large pot of boiling salted water, cook the angel hair pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup of the pasta water, then drain the pasta.

Prepare the Sauce

In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant. Add the halved cherry tomatoes and cook for about 5-7 minutes, until they begin to soften.

Combine Pasta and Sauce

Add the cooked pasta to the skillet with the tomatoes. Toss everything together, adding reserved pasta water as needed to create a silky sauce. Stir in fresh basil and season with salt and pepper to taste.

Serve

Plate the pasta and top with grated Parmesan cheese if desired. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Your delicious Angel Hair Pasta with Tomato Basil Sauce is ready to enjoy!

Pro Tips

For an extra burst of flavor, try adding a splash of balsamic vinegar to the sauce or minced red pepper flakes for a little heat.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

This Easy Angel Hair Pasta dish is best enjoyed fresh, but you can store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. When reheating, do so gently on low heat, adding a splash of water or olive oil to reinvigorate the sauce and prevent the pasta from drying out. Microwaving can also work, but it requires careful attention to avoid overcooking.

If you want to prep ahead, you can cook the pasta in advance and store it separately from the sauce. Combine them just before serving to maintain the pasta's texture. The sauce itself can also be prepared a day ahead; just reheat gently and toss with the freshly cooked pasta when you're ready to eat.

Serving Suggestions

For a delightful presentation, consider garnishing your finished dish with additional chopped basil and a drizzle of high-quality olive oil. A pinch of red pepper flakes can also add an appealing kick if you enjoy some heat. Pair this pasta with a fresh green salad or garlic bread to create a well-rounded meal that’s both satisfying and visually appealing.

If you're serving guests or want to elevate the meal, try adding a protein such as grilled chicken or shrimp. Simply sauté them in the skillet before adding the tomatoes to infuse the dish with their flavors. This not only enhances the dish's nutritional value but also makes it more filling and satisfying, perfect for special occasions.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use other types of pasta?

Absolutely! While angel hair is great for this recipe, you can use any pasta shape you prefer.

→ How can I store leftovers?

Store any leftover pasta in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop.

→ Is this recipe suitable for vegetarians?

Yes, this dish is entirely vegetarian! Just skip the cheese if you want it to be vegan.

→ Can I add protein to this dish?

Definitely! Grilled chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas make fantastic additions to this pasta.