Easy Pasta With Tomato Basil Sauce

Name: Easy Pasta With Tomato Basil Sauce
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 200g pasta of choice; 4 ripe tomatoes, diced; 1 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 2 tablespoons olive oil; Salt and pepper to taste; Grated parmesan cheese for serving

Highlighted under: Easy Ideas

I absolutely love making this Easy Pasta with Tomato Basil Sauce when I need a quick and delicious meal. The freshness of the basil combined with ripe tomatoes creates a vibrant flavor that never fails to impress. This recipe is incredibly simple, taking just a few minutes to prepare while delivering a comforting dish that's perfect for any occasion. Whether you're hosting friends or enjoying a night in, this pasta dish will surely be a hit at the table, and it’s one I come back to time and time again.

Created by

Una Merrick

Last updated on 2026-02-27T22:05:35.067Z

As I embarked on creating this Easy Pasta with Tomato Basil Sauce, I realized how a simple dish can make a huge difference in turning a mundane day into something delightful. The key is to use the freshest ingredients you can find, particularly the basil; it really enhances the overall flavor. Making the sauce from scratch helps the tomatoes shine, allowing their natural sweetness to complement the pasta beautifully.

During my time preparing this dish, I discovered that lightly sautéing garlic before adding in the tomatoes makes all the difference. The aroma fills the kitchen and sets the perfect tone for the meal. I recommend serving it immediately with a sprinkle of parmesan for that extra touch!

Reasons You'll Love This Recipe
Fresh, vibrant flavors from garden tomatoes and basil
Quick preparation, perfect for busy weeknights
Comforting and satisfying, ideal for families

Mastering the Sauce

The sauce for this Easy Pasta with Tomato Basil Sauce relies heavily on the quality and ripeness of the tomatoes you choose. Opt for in-season, vine-ripened tomatoes for the best results. When sautéing the garlic, keep an eye on it to avoid burning; it should become fragrant and slightly golden but not browned. This step enhances the overall flavor profile, creating a base for the sauce that balances beautifully with the fresh basil.

When adding the diced tomatoes to the pan, engage a medium-high heat for a short burst to quickly soften them, releasing their juices. This process usually takes about 5-7 minutes, and you should stir occasionally. As they cook, the tomatoes will break down slightly, creating a vibrant, thick sauce that clings well to the pasta. If you find the sauce is not breaking down as desired, consider mashing it gently with a fork to expedite the process.

Pasta Perfection

For the pasta, I prefer using a shape that holds sauce well, such as fusilli or penne. Cooking it until al dente is crucial, as it will continue to cook slightly when mixed with the sauce later. Make sure to generously salt the boiling water; it should taste like the sea. In doing so, the pasta absorbs flavors, enhancing the overall taste of the dish.

When you combine the pasta with the sauce, ensure to fold the ingredients gently but thoroughly to maintain the integrity of the pasta. If the sauce seems too thick, gradually add the reserved pasta water. Adding just a tablespoon at a time helps you achieve that perfect, glossy consistency without making it watery, ensuring every bite is flavorful.

Ingredients

Gather up these simple ingredients for a delightful meal!

Ingredients

200g pasta of choice
4 ripe tomatoes, diced
1 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
2 tablespoons olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste
Grated parmesan cheese for serving

Now that you have everything ready, let's get cooking!

Instructions

Follow these easy steps to create your delicious pasta dish.

Cook the Pasta

In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water, then drain and set the pasta aside.

Prepare the Sauce

In a large skillet over medium heat, add olive oil and sauté the minced garlic for about 1 minute or until fragrant. Add the diced tomatoes and cook for 5-7 minutes until softened.

Combine and Serve

Stir in the cooked pasta and fresh basil. If the sauce is too thick, add reserved pasta water a little at a time until desired consistency is reached. Season with salt and pepper, then serve with grated parmesan cheese on top.

Your Easy Pasta with Tomato Basil Sauce is now ready to enjoy!

Pro Tips

For an added kick, try incorporating a pinch of red pepper flakes into the sauce. It elevates the flavor profile beautifully.

Healthy Ingredient Swaps

If you want to lighten the dish, consider using whole wheat or legume-based pasta; they can offer additional fiber and protein. For a vegan option, simply omit the parmesan cheese or replace it with a nutritional yeast sprinkle, giving a cheesy flavor without the dairy. You can also experiment with adding sautéed vegetables, like zucchini or bell peppers, to amp up the nutrition while making the dish more filling.

For those sensitive to garlic, try using garlic-infused olive oil instead of minced garlic to impart a subtle flavor. Additionally, substituting fresh basil with arugula can incorporate a peppery note to the dish. Just remember, adjustments may slightly change the flavor, so taste as you go!

Storage and Serving Suggestions

This pasta dish is best enjoyed fresh, but if you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of water to loosen the sauce if needed. Avoid reheating in the microwave if possible, as it can make the pasta rubbery.

For an impressive presentation, try serving the pasta in bowls garnished with additional fresh basil and a sprinkle of grated parmesan. A drizzle of high-quality olive oil right before serving adds a touch of richness. This dish pairs beautifully with a side of garlic bread or a fresh green salad drizzled with a lemon vinaigrette.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use dried herbs instead of fresh basil?

While fresh herbs are recommended for the best flavor, you can use dried basil. Use about a tablespoon of dried basil for this recipe.

→ What pasta works best with this sauce?

Any pasta works well, but I recommend using spaghetti, penne, or fusilli for better sauce adherence.

→ Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the sauce in advance, then just cook the pasta when you're ready to serve.

→ What dishes pair well with this pasta?

A simple side salad or garlic bread pairs excellently, complementing the fresh flavors of the pasta.