Tomato Basil Spaghetti
Bursting with fresh flavors and vibrant colors, this Tomato Basil Spaghetti is a simple yet elegant pasta dish that celebrates the beauty of Mediterranean cuisine. Perfectly al dente spaghetti is tossed in a light, garlicky cherry tomato sauce, infused with the aromatic punch of fresh basil and a touch of red chili flakes for subtle heat. Ready in just 30 minutes, this easy weeknight recipe requires minimal ingredients but delivers maximum flavor. Serve it as a comforting standalone meal or pair it with a crisp green salad for a complete dining experience. Whether you’re craving something light yet satisfying or looking for a vegetarian option that doesn’t compromise on taste, Tomato Basil Spaghetti is sure to satisfy every pasta lover’s palate. Garnish with parmesan for an optional cheesy finish!
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Ingredients
- 400 grams spaghetti
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 pieces garlic cloves
- 500 grams cherry tomatoes
- 20 grams fresh basil leaves
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 0.5 teaspoons black pepper
- 0.5 teaspoons red chili flakes
- 50 grams parmesan cheese (optional, grated)
Directions
Step 1
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the spaghetti according to the package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water and drain the rest. Set cooked spaghetti aside.
Step 2
While the pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a large pan over medium heat.
Step 3
Mince the garlic cloves and add them to the pan. Sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant but not browned.
Step 4
Halve the cherry tomatoes and add them to the pan with a pinch of salt. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the tomatoes begin to break down and release their juices.
Step 5
Tear or roughly chop the basil leaves and stir them into the tomato mixture. Add black pepper and red chili flakes, adjusting to taste.
Step 6
Add the cooked spaghetti to the pan and toss to coat it evenly in the tomato and basil sauce. If the mixture appears dry, gradually add a bit of the reserved pasta water until the sauce reaches your desired consistency.
Step 7
Serve immediately, garnished with additional fresh basil and grated parmesan cheese, if desired.
Nutrition Facts
| Serving size | 1031.4 grams (1031.4g) |
|---|
| Amount per serving | % Daily Value* |
|---|---|
| Calories | 1340 |
| Total Fat 61.00g | 78% |
| Saturated Fat 16.50g | 83% |
| Polyunsaturated Fat 4.00g | |
| Cholesterol 20mg | 7% |
| Sodium 3157mg | 137% |
| Total Carbohydrate 150.70g | 55% |
| Dietary Fiber 14.90g | 53% |
| Total Sugars 16.80g | |
| Protein 48.30g | 97% |
| Vitamin D 20IU | 100% |
| Calcium 711mg | 55% |
| Iron 10mg | 55% |
| Potassium 1543mg | 33% |
Source of Calories