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Pasta With Tomato Basil Sauce

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Pasta With Tomato Basil Sauce is a quick, vibrant, and satisfying dish made with spaghetti or linguine, sweet San Marzano tomatoes, fresh basil, and aromatic garlic. Finished with Parmigiano-Reggiano, it’s a perfect balance of simplicity and flavor.

  • Author: Sophia
  • Prep Time: 5 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Total Time: 25 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: Italian
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Ingredients

  • 1 pound spaghetti or linguine
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 medium yellow onion, diced
  • 1 can (28 ounces) whole San Marzano tomatoes
  • 12 large fresh basil leaves, torn
  • 1 large pinch kosher salt
  • ½ teaspoon ground black pepper
  • ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
  • ½ cup grated Parmigiano-Reggiano

Instructions

  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook pasta until al dente. Reserve ½ cup pasta water, then drain.
  2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add garlic and onion; sauté for 4–5 minutes until soft and translucent.
  3. Add canned tomatoes with juices. Crush with a spoon or mash gently. For a smoother sauce, blend with an immersion blender.
  4. Stir in basil, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes. Simmer for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.
  5. Add drained pasta to the sauce and toss gently to coat. Add reserved pasta water as needed to loosen the sauce.
  6. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmigiano-Reggiano and extra basil if desired.

Notes

  • Use fresh Roma tomatoes for a fresher flavor when in season.
  • Add grilled chicken, shrimp, or sausage for protein.
  • Swap pasta types like penne, rigatoni, or fettuccine.
  • Stir in spinach or arugula at the end for extra greens.
  • Omit red pepper flakes for a milder version.
  • Store leftovers in fridge for up to 4 days; freeze up to 3 months.

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