Tomato Pasta is a comforting classic that’s simple to make yet bursting with rich, vibrant flavors. Made with juicy tomatoes, garlic, and a hint of herbs, this dish delivers a perfect blend of tangy and savory. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a cozy meal to share with loved ones, this pasta is a go-to recipe.
Pair it with a crisp salad or garlic bread for a complete meal everyone will love.
Kitchen Equipment Needed
- Large pot
- Skillet or saucepan
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- Knife and cutting board
- Colander
- Grater (optional, for cheese)
Ingredients
- 12 oz (340 g) pasta (spaghetti, penne, or your choice)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 4 cups fresh tomatoes, diced (or 1 can of crushed tomatoes)
- 1 tbsp tomato paste
- 1 tsp sugar (optional, to balance acidity)
- 1 tsp dried basil or 2 tbsp fresh basil, chopped
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- Red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional, for topping)
- Fresh parsley or basil leaves, for garnish
Directions
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
- Add the pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente.
- Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water, then drain the pasta and set aside.
Step 2: Prepare the Sauce
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.
- Sauté garlic and onion until fragrant and softened, about 2-3 minutes.
- Stir in the diced tomatoes and tomato paste. Cook for 8-10 minutes, allowing the tomatoes to break down and thicken.
- Add sugar (if using), basil, oregano, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes. Stir well and simmer for another 5 minutes.
Step 3: Combine Pasta and Sauce
- Add the cooked pasta to the skillet with the sauce. Toss to coat evenly.
- If the sauce is too thick, add reserved pasta water a little at a time until desired consistency is reached.
Step 4: Serve
- Divide the pasta into bowls or plates.
- Top with grated Parmesan cheese and garnish with fresh parsley or basil leaves.
Prep Time
10 minutes
Cook Time
20 minutes
Total Time
30 minutes
Nutrition (Per Serving)
- Calories: 320
- Protein: 10g
- Carbohydrates: 50g
- Fat: 8g
- Fiber: 4g
Expert Tips
- Use Fresh Tomatoes: If in season, fresh tomatoes enhance the flavor of the dish. Blanch and peel them for a smoother sauce.
- Balance Acidity: A pinch of sugar can help mellow the tang of the tomatoes.
- Make It Creamy: Add a splash of heavy cream or a dollop of ricotta for a creamy twist.
- Add Protein: Incorporate cooked chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas for added protein.
FAQs
Can I use canned tomatoes instead of fresh?
Yes, canned crushed tomatoes work perfectly and save time.
What pasta works best with tomato sauce?
Spaghetti, penne, or fusilli are great choices, but any pasta shape will work.
Can I make this vegan?
Absolutely! Skip the Parmesan cheese or use a plant-based alternative.
How do I store leftovers?
Refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Can I freeze the sauce?
Yes, the tomato sauce freezes well. Store in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months.
Storing & Reheating
- Storing: Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Reheating: Warm in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water if needed.
Substitutions & Variations
- Herbs: Swap basil and oregano for thyme or rosemary for a different flavor profile.
- Pasta Type: Use whole wheat, gluten-free, or zucchini noodles for a healthier option.
- Add Veggies: Toss in spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers for extra nutrition.
Tomato Pasta Recipe
Tomato Pasta is a comforting classic that’s simple to make yet bursting with rich, vibrant flavors. Made with juicy tomatoes, garlic, and a hint of herbs, this dish delivers a perfect blend of tangy and savory. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a cozy meal to share with loved ones, this pasta is a go-to recipe. Pair it with a crisp salad or garlic bread for a complete meal everyone will love.
Equipment
- Large pot
- - Skillet or saucepan
- - Wooden spoon or spatula
- Knife and cutting board
- - Colander
- - Grater (optional, for cheese
Ingredients
- - 12 oz 340 g pasta (spaghetti, penne, or your choice)
- - 2 tbsp olive oil
- - 3 cloves garlic minced
- - 1 small onion finely chopped
- - 4 cups fresh tomatoes diced (or 1 can of crushed tomatoes)
- - 1 tbsp tomato paste
- - 1 tsp sugar optional, to balance acidity
- - 1 tsp dried basil or 2 tbsp fresh basil chopped
- - 1 tsp dried oregano
- - Salt and black pepper to taste
- - Red pepper flakes optional, for heat
- - 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese optional, for topping
- - Fresh parsley or basil leaves for garnish
Instructions
- #### Step 1: Cook the Pasta
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
- Add the pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente.
- Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water, then drain the pasta and set aside.
- #### Step 2: Prepare the Sauce
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.
- Sauté garlic and onion until fragrant and softened, about 2-3 minutes.
- Stir in the diced tomatoes and tomato paste. Cook for 8-10 minutes, allowing the tomatoes to break down and thicken.
- Add sugar (if using), basil, oregano, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes. Stir well and simmer for another 5 minutes.
- #### Step 3: Combine Pasta and Sauce
- Add the cooked pasta to the skillet with the sauce. Toss to coat evenly.
- If the sauce is too thick, add reserved pasta water a little at a time until desired consistency is reached.
- #### Step 4: Serve
- Divide the pasta into bowls or plates.
- Top with grated Parmesan cheese and garnish with fresh parsley or basil leaves.
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