Tomato and Basil Pasta

Elevate your weeknight dinner game with this simple yet sensational Tomato and Basil Pasta recipe—a perfect balance of fresh, wholesome ingredients and bold Mediterranean flavors. Featuring al dente spaghetti tossed in a vibrant garlic-infused cherry tomato sauce, this dish is elevated with fragrant fresh basil, a hint of red chili flakes for subtle heat, and an optional sprinkle of Parmesan for a creamy finish. Ready in just 30 minutes, it's a quick and easy pasta recipe that doesn't skimp on flavor, making it an ideal choice for busy cooks and pasta lovers alike. Whether served as a comforting main course or a light vegetarian option, this fresh tomato and basil recipe will quickly become a household favorite. Keywords: tomato and basil pasta recipe, quick pasta dishes, Mediterranean pasta, vegetarian dinner ideas.

Nutriscore Rating: 70/100

Prep Time:10 mins

Cook Time:20 mins

Total Time:30 mins

Servings: 4

Ingredients

• 400 grams spaghetti
• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• 3 pieces garlic cloves
• 400 grams cherry tomatoes
• 20 grams fresh basil leaves
• 0.5 teaspoons red chili flakes
• 0.5 teaspoons salt
• 0.5 teaspoons black pepper
• 50 grams grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
• 120 milliliters pasta water

Directions

Step 1

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the spaghetti according to the package instructions until al dente. Reserve 120 ml of pasta water, then drain the pasta and set aside.

Step 2

While the pasta cooks, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.

Step 3

Mince the garlic cloves and add them to the skillet. Sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant, being careful not to burn the garlic.

Step 4

Cut the cherry tomatoes in half and add them to the skillet. Cook for 5-6 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the tomatoes soften and release their juices.

Step 5

Stir in the red chili flakes, salt, and black pepper. Cook for 1 more minute to combine the flavors.

Step 6

Add the drained spaghetti to the skillet along with the reserved pasta water. Toss everything together to coat the pasta evenly with the tomato sauce.

Step 7

Turn off the heat and tear the fresh basil leaves by hand. Scatter them over the pasta and gently toss to combine.

Step 8

Plate the pasta and, if desired, sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese for garnish.

Step 9

Serve immediately and enjoy the simple yet delicious flavors of Tomato and Basil Pasta.

Nutrition Facts

Serving size	1045 grams (1045.0g)

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	1323

Total Fat 60.80g	78%
Saturated Fat 16.50g	83%
Polyunsaturated Fat 4.00g
Cholesterol 40mg	13%
Sodium 1973mg	86%
Total Carbohydrate 146.80g	53%
Dietary Fiber 13.60g	49%
Total Sugars 14.20g
Protein 47.20g	94%

Vitamin D 0IU	0%
Calcium 695mg	53%
Iron 10mg	53%
Potassium 1319mg	28%

*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.

Source of Calories

Fat: 41.4%

Protein: 14.3%

Carbs: 44.4%