Ingredients
1 lb (450g) pasta (spaghetti, linguine, or short pasta like penne)
3 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
6–8 cloves garlic, freshly minced
1.5 lbs (about 3-4 large) ripe Roma, vine-ripened, or cherry tomatoes (halved)
1/2 cup packed fresh basil, torn or chopped
1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese, plus more for serving
Salt and black pepper to taste
1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
1–2 cups reserved pasta water
Instructions
1. 1. Bring a large pot of heavily salted water to a rolling boil. Cook pasta according to package directions until al dente.
2. 2. Before draining, reserve 1-2 cups of pasta water. Drain pasta and set aside.
3. 3. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add minced garlic and red pepper flakes (if using). Sauté 1-2 minutes until fragrant; do not let garlic brown.
4. 4. Stir in chopped tomatoes. Season with salt and pepper. Cook 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until tomatoes soften and break down. Mash some with a spoon for a saucier consistency.
5. 5. Add 1/2 cup reserved pasta water. Stir and let simmer 2-3 minutes.
6. 6. Add drained pasta to the skillet. Toss to coat. If sauce is too thick, add more pasta water a tablespoon at a time.
7. 7. Remove from heat. Stir in fresh basil and grated Parmesan. Toss until cheese melts and sauce is creamy.
8. 8. Taste and adjust seasoning. Serve immediately, garnished with extra basil and Parmesan.
Notes
For a dairy-free version, omit Parmesan. Nutritional yeast can provide a cheesy flavor. For a gluten-free version, use gluten-free pasta. Salt pasta water generously (like sea water) for best flavor. Reserve pasta water before draining; it is essential for a silky sauce. Use ripe, fragrant tomatoes for the best sweetness. Fresh garlic is non-negotiable for the best flavor. Leftovers keep in the fridge for 3-4 days or freeze for up to 3 months. Reheat with a splash of water or broth.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian-inspired
- Diet: Can be made dairy-free and gluten-free
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving (about 1.5 cups)
- Calories: 420
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 450mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 3.5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7.5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 65g
- Fiber: 5g
- Protein: 14g
- Cholesterol: 15mg