Basil Tomato Pasta

Sometimes, the best dishes are the simplest ones. Basil Tomato Pasta is the perfect example. With its fresh tomatoes, fragrant basil, and a touch of garlic, it’s a dish that feels both light and comforting at the same time. The beauty of this recipe for Basil Tomato Pasta is in its simplicity. You don’t need any fancy ingredients—just a few fresh staples that come together to create something delicious and satisfying.

The tomatoes bring a burst of tangy sweetness, the basil adds a refreshing, herby kick, and the pasta ties it all together with its soft, chewy texture. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a light lunch, Basil Tomato Pasta is sure to hit the spot.

The first time I made Basil Tomato Pasta was during the summer when fresh tomatoes were in season. I had just come back from the farmer’s market with a bag full of ripe tomatoes and decided to keep things simple. I tossed the tomatoes with garlic, olive oil, and fresh basil, then added it to the pasta I had cooked. The result was an explosion of flavor in every bite. The tomatoes tasted so fresh and juicy, and the basil gave the dish such a lovely aroma. It was one of those meals where each bite made me smile, and I knew I’d be making Basil Tomato Pasta again soon.

Now, I make Basil Tomato Pasta often, especially when I want something quick but full of flavor. It’s also a great way to enjoy those summer tomatoes when they’re at their peak. And the best part? Basil Tomato Pasta is super versatile—you can serve it hot or cold, add some mozzarella or vegan cheese, or top it with a sprinkle of crushed red pepper for a bit of spice.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Fresh & Flavorful – Sweet tomatoes, fragrant basil, and garlic come together in a perfect harmony of flavor.
• Quick & Easy – Ready in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy days.
• Light & Healthy – A satisfying dish without being too heavy.
• Customizable – Add your favorite protein, veggies, or cheese to make it your own.
• Perfect for Summer – The freshness of the ingredients makes it ideal for warm weather.

Health Benefits of Basil Tomato Pasta

Even though it’s a simple dish, Basil Tomato Pasta offers a surprising number of health benefits:

• Rich in Antioxidants – Tomatoes are packed with antioxidants like lycopene, which supports heart health and fights inflammation.
• High in Vitamins – Tomatoes and basil are rich in vitamins A and C, helping support immunity and skin health.
• Low in Calories – This dish is light yet satisfying, making it a great option for a balanced meal.
• Heart-Healthy – The olive oil provides healthy fats that are good for your heart.
• Good for Digestion – The fiber in the tomatoes and pasta promotes healthy digestion and keeps you feeling full.

When to Make Basil Tomato Pasta

This dish is perfect for many occasions, such as:

• Quick Weeknight Dinner – A fast and flavorful meal that’s easy to whip up after a long day.
• Lunch – A light, satisfying option that won’t leave you feeling sluggish.
• Summer Meals – Take advantage of fresh tomatoes during the summer for a dish that’s bursting with flavor.
• Picnics or Gatherings – This pasta can be served warm or cold, making it a great dish to bring to potlucks or picnics.
• Meatless Mondays – A simple, plant-based option that’s perfect for a meatless meal.

Chef’s Notes: Basil Tomato Pasta

• Fresh Basil is Key – For the best flavor, use fresh basil and add it towards the end of cooking to preserve its aromatic qualities.
• Butter for Creaminess – Softened butter makes the sauce luxuriously creamy. Don’t skip this step for a rich texture.
• Adjust Sauce Consistency – If the sauce feels too thick, use a bit of the reserved pasta water to adjust it to your liking.
• Cheese Matters – Opt for freshly grated Parmigiano Reggiano for the best melt and flavor. If needed, Pecorino Romano is a great alternative.
• Customize the Flavor – For an extra burst of color and taste, add halved cherry tomatoes or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes during the simmering stage.
• Tear the Basil – Rather than chopping, tear the basil for a more delicate, flavorful infusion in the sauce.
• Pasta Texture – Be sure to cook the pasta al dente, so it holds up well when tossed in the sauce.
• Perfect Pairing – A side of garlic bread or a light, crisp mixed greens salad complements this dish beautifully.
• Leftovers – Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 2 days. Reheat gently over low heat and add a splash of water or broth to maintain the creamy texture.

Pin

Print

Basil Tomato Pasta

0.0 from 0 votes

Course: Main CourseCuisine: ItalianDifficulty: Easy

Servings

4

servings

Prep time

5

minutes

Cooking time

10

minutes

Calories

775

kcal

Total time

15

minutes

Experience a refined twist on a traditional pasta dish with this dynamic Basil Tomato Pasta. Infused with ripe, crushed tomatoes, fragrant basil, and a subtle poise of garlic and butter, every bite sings with vibrant, balanced flavors. This dish promises a delightful journey from the first simmer to the final garnish, perfect for a quick yet gourmet weeknight dinner. Let your palate revel in this chef-inspired creation that’s both simple and satisfying.

Ingredients

• Herbs Aromatics

• 1 bunch fresh basil separate one whole sprig with leaves intact and roughly tear the remainder into bite-sized pieces

• 1/4 cup yellow onion finely diced

• 3 cloves garlic freshly minced

• Pasta Dairy

• 8 oz cavatappi pasta or a similar tubular variety like penne or ziti

• 2 oz Parmigiano Reggiano finely grated

• Sauce Essentials

• 1 can crushed tomatoes (28-oz)

• 3 tbsp salted butter softened to room temperature

• 1 tbsp extra virgin olive oil

• 2 tbsp coarse sea salt with extra available for personal taste adjustment

• freshly ground black pepper as needed for a gentle kick

• Alternative Ingredients

• Fresh basil – if not available use 1 teaspoon dried basil per tablespoon of fresh for a milder herbal note

• Yellow onion – substitute with white or red onion for a slightly different sweetness

• Parmigiano Reggiano – replace with Pecorino Romano for a sharper saltier profile

• Cavatappi pasta – can be interchanged with penne or ziti without compromising texture

• Crushed tomatoes – tomato puree works as a smoother alternative

• Butter – a plant-based butter alternative can be used for a vegan variation note this will alter the flavor

• Olive oil – avocado oil serves as a suitable alternative if desired

Directions

• Herb Preparation – Begin by selecting one whole sprig of basil and set it aside with its leaves intact; meanwhile, tear the remaining basil into bite-sized pieces. Take a moment to appreciate the aroma as you gently separate the leaves. This process should take around 3 minutes, allowing the herbs to be prepped for later infusions.
• Vegetable Chopping – Finely dice the yellow onion and mince three cloves of garlic using a sharp knife on your cutting board. This ensures even cooking when they’re sautéed. Allocate about 2 minutes for precision chopping and to develop the base flavors.
• Pasta Cooking – Fill a large pot with water and add 2 tablespoons of salt, bringing it to a vigorous boil. Incorporate the 8 oz of pasta and let it cook until it reaches a perfectly al dente texture, roughly 9 minutes. Drain the pasta in a colander, reserving a small cup of the starchy water if you wish to adjust the sauce consistency later.
• Sauce Simmering – Heat a nonstick pan over medium heat and drizzle in 1 tablespoon of olive oil; add the diced onion and sauté until tender, about 4 minutes. Introduce the minced garlic and let it lightly brown for an additional minute. Pour in the 28-oz crushed tomatoes, add the whole basil sprig, and simmer for approximately 10 minutes to deepen the flavor and thicken the sauce.
• Finishing Touches – Stir in 3 tablespoons of softened butter to enrich the sauce, then season with 2 tablespoons of coarse salt and freshly ground pepper to taste. Mix continuously for 2 minutes so that the butter fully melds with the tomatoes. Optionally, adjust the seasoning further to suit your palate.
• Combining Serving – Gently fold the drained pasta into the simmering sauce, ensuring every piece is evenly coated. Dish out the pasta into bowls and generously sprinkle with the torn basil and finely grated Parmigiano Reggiano. This final assembly should take about 2 minutes, culminating in a beautifully balanced plate ready to enjoy.

Equipment

• chef’s knife
• cutting board
• nonstick pan
• colander
• Mixing bowls
• measuring cups and spoons

Nutrition Facts

• Calories: 775kcal
• Fat: 46g
• Saturated Fat: 24g
• Cholesterol: 101mg
• Sodium: 2539mg
• Potassium: 900mg
• Carbohydrates: 76g
• Fiber: 10g
• Sugar: 23g
• Protein: 22g
• Vitamin A: 700IU
• Vitamin C: 20mg
• Calcium: 200mg
• Iron: 2mg

FAQs: Basil Tomato Pasta

More Pasta Recipes

• 

  Creamy Chicken Pasta

  Cooks in 20 minutesDifficulty: Easy

  Elevate your weeknight dinner with this sumptuous creamy chicken pasta that marries tender, pre‐cooked chicken with steamed broccoli and a velvety parmesan-infused Alfredo sauce. Each bite delivers a perfect blend of richness and brightness, making it a standout dish for busy evenings or impromptu dinner parties. Enjoy a restaurant-quality meal in just 20 minutes as you savor each flavorful, health-conscious mouthful.

  Cuisine: Italian
• 

  Ultimate Baked Cavatappi Mac and Cheese

  Cooks in 50 minutes

  Indulge in the creamy richness of homemade Cavatappi Mac and Cheese! Featuring a luscious three-cheese sauce crafted with sharp cheddar, nutty Gruyere, and creamy mozzarella, this recipe elevates a classic comfort food. Spiralized cavatappi pasta perfectly captures the decadent sauce, while a crispy Parmesan-Panko topping adds delightful texture and a savory crunch. Baked to golden perfection, this mac and cheese is ideal as a hearty main course or a crowd-pleasing side dish. Customize with your favorite cheese blend and spices for a truly unforgettable culinary experience. Perfect for family dinners and gatherings!

  Cuisine: American
• 

  Creamy Pesto Cavatappi Pasta

  Cooks in 15 minutesDifficulty: Easy

  Recreate the popular Noodles & Company Pesto Cavatappi at home! This easy copycat recipe features perfectly cooked cavatappi pasta tossed in a luscious homemade or store-bought pesto sauce with juicy diced tomatoes and optional savory mushrooms. A splash of white wine and cream adds richness, while Parmesan cheese provides the perfect finishing touch. Ready in just 15 minutes, this customizable dish is a crowd-pleaser for quick weeknight dinners or elegant lunches. Adjust ingredients to suit your taste. Enjoy restaurant-quality comfort food made simple and delicious! Perfect for busy families and pesto lovers.

  Cuisine: American, Italian