Fresh Tomato Pasta with Basil Recipe – A Simple, Light, and Flavorful Dish

Fresh Tomato Pasta with Basil

Introduction to Recipe

If you’re looking for a light and refreshing pasta dish that bursts with vibrant flavors, look no further than Fresh Tomato Pasta with Basil. This dish combines the rich, natural sweetness of ripe tomatoes with the fragrant and aromatic flavor of fresh basil, making it an ideal choice for summer or anytime you want a simple, wholesome meal. The dish is light yet flavorful, making it a perfect balance between satisfying and refreshing. This is one of those pasta dishes that highlights the beauty of fresh ingredients, without overwhelming them with too many spices or heavy sauces.

The key to the success of this recipe is using the freshest tomatoes available. The tomatoes provide the base for the sauce, which is then complemented by freshly grated Parmesan cheese, extra virgin olive oil, and the bright acidity of lemon juice. This straightforward recipe requires only a few ingredients but delivers a delightful, fresh taste that anyone will enjoy.

Whether you’re cooking for yourself or entertaining guests, Fresh Tomato Pasta with Basil is perfect for those who prefer simplicity without sacrificing flavor. The combination of juicy tomatoes, fresh basil, and pasta offers a wonderful contrast of textures and flavors that is both comforting and light. If you’re interested in exploring more fresh pasta recipes or learning the benefits of using fresh ingredients, check out this guide on fresh pasta recipes and fresh tomato-based recipes.

Basic Recipe: Ingredients and Instructions

This Fresh Tomato Pasta with Basil is a light and flavorful dish perfect for warm weather or anytime you crave something fresh and vibrant. Ripe tomatoes, fragrant basil, and a touch of lemon juice come together in a simple, yet satisfying sauce that perfectly complements your choice of pasta. With the addition of Parmesan cheese, this dish is both refreshing and rich, making it a wonderful weeknight dinner or elegant meal for guests.

Fresh Tomato Pasta with Basil Recipe – A Simple, Light, and Flavorful Dish

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• Author: Jennifer Mitchell
• Total Time: 20 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x
• Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

Enjoy a fresh and light pasta dish with juicy tomatoes, basil, and Parmesan. Perfect for any season, quick to prepare!

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 4 to 6 ripe tomatoes, chopped

• 5 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil

• 2 teaspoons lemon juice, freshly squeezed

• 1/3 cup basil leaves, stems removed, chopped

• Salt, to taste

• Freshly ground black pepper, to taste

• 1 pound spaghetti, or linguine or fettuccine pasta

• 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese

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Instructions

1. Prepare the Sauce:
   In a large bowl, combine the chopped tomatoes, olive oil, lemon juice, and chopped basil. Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Toss everything together and let it sit for about 10-15 minutes to allow the flavors to meld and the tomatoes to release their juices.

2. Cook the Pasta:
   Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Reserve about 1/2 cup of pasta cooking water before draining the pasta.

3. Combine the Pasta and Sauce:
   Drain the pasta and return it to the pot. Add the tomato-basil mixture to the pasta, tossing gently to combine. If needed, add a bit of the reserved pasta water to help the sauce coat the pasta evenly.

4. Finish the Dish:
   Stir in the freshly grated Parmesan cheese, allowing it to melt and create a smooth, cheesy finish. Taste and adjust seasoning with more salt or pepper if needed.

5. Serve:
   Divide the pasta among plates and serve immediately. Garnish with extra fresh basil or Parmesan cheese if desired.

Notes

For a more intense flavor, you can sauté the tomatoes and garlic briefly in the olive oil before adding them to the pasta.

Use high-quality extra-virgin olive oil for the best flavor.

If you prefer a spicier dish, add some red pepper flakes to the sauce.

This dish can be served warm or at room temperature, making it a great option for both cozy nights and summer gatherings.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 10-12 minutes
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 450
• Sugar: 6g
• Sodium: 320mg
• Fat: 19g
• Saturated Fat: 3g
• Unsaturated Fat: 16g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 56g
• Fiber: 3g
• Protein: 11g
• Cholesterol: 10mg

Keywords: Fresh Tomato Pasta with Basil

Prepare the Ingredients: Begin by washing the tomatoes and chopping them into small, bite-sized pieces. Remove the stems from the basil leaves and chop them finely. Squeeze the lemon juice into a small bowl, and set everything aside.

Step 3

Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the spaghetti, linguine, or fettuccine pasta, and cook according to the package instructions. Be sure to cook the pasta to al dente texture, ensuring it has a slight bite to it. Once the pasta is ready, drain it, but be sure to save about a cup of pasta water to help with the sauce.

Step 4

Make the Tomato Sauce: While the pasta cooks, heat the extra-virgin olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped tomatoes, and sauté them for about 3-5 minutes, allowing the tomatoes to soften and release their juices. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Add the freshly squeezed lemon juice, which adds a refreshing tang and helps balance the sweetness of the tomatoes.

Step 5

Toss the Pasta and Sauce: Once the pasta is drained, add it directly to the skillet with the tomatoes. Toss the pasta in the tomato sauce, ensuring that each piece is well-coated. If the mixture looks too dry, add a small amount of reserved pasta water to help loosen the sauce and coat the pasta more evenly.

Step 6

Finish with Basil and Parmesan: Add the fresh basil to the pasta, stirring gently. The heat from the pasta will help the basil release its aromatic oils, adding an extra layer of flavor. Finally, sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese over the pasta and toss it again until the cheese has melted into the sauce.

Step 7

Serve: Plate the pasta and garnish with extra basil leaves for a fresh, green pop. Serve immediately, and enjoy the fresh, light flavors of this simple yet satisfying dish.

This recipe serves 4 and is the perfect meal for any pasta lover. It’s light enough for a summer dinner and filling enough for a family meal.

Advanced Techniques

Selecting the Best Tomatoes

The tomatoes you choose for this dish are essential to the flavor and texture of the sauce. To ensure that the dish has the best possible flavor, use ripe, in-season tomatoes. Heirloom tomatoes, with their rich and complex flavor, are an excellent choice for this recipe. Alternatively, Roma tomatoes—known for their less watery texture—work wonderfully too, especially when you want a slightly thicker sauce. If you can’t find fresh tomatoes, high-quality canned tomatoes, such as San Marzano, are a great substitute. These tomatoes are often sweeter and have a more complex flavor compared to regular canned varieties.

For an added burst of flavor, you can roast the tomatoes before using them in the sauce. Roasting tomatoes brings out their natural sweetness and deepens their flavor, making the dish more intense and savory. Simply cut the tomatoes in half, drizzle with olive oil, season with salt and pepper, and roast them in a 400°F oven for 20-30 minutes before adding them to the pan.

Enhancing the Basil Flavor

While fresh basil is a key ingredient, you can enhance its flavor by briefly bruising the leaves before adding them to the pasta. This helps release the essential oils, which infuse the dish with a more robust basil flavor. Alternatively, you can also create a basil-infused olive oil. Heat the olive oil with a few basil leaves for a minute or two and then use it to sauté the tomatoes, bringing the herbal notes right into the base of the sauce.

Adding Extra Protein

To make this dish heartier, consider adding protein. Grilled chicken or shrimp pairs wonderfully with this fresh tomato pasta, providing extra texture and flavor to the meal. If you’re looking for a vegetarian protein option, try adding cooked chickpeas, white beans, or even tofu. These options will enhance the nutritional value of the dish while maintaining the light, fresh character.

See more advanced recipes, at Mobolux.

Storage, Shelf Life, and Maintenance Tips

Storing Leftovers

If you have leftovers of Fresh Tomato Pasta with Basil, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The pasta can last for up to 2 days, but be aware that the pasta may continue to absorb the tomato sauce, which can make it slightly drier when reheated. To reheat, place the pasta in a pan over low heat and add a splash of olive oil or reserved pasta water to bring it back to life. You can also microwave individual servings, but make sure to cover the dish to prevent it from drying out.

Freezing the Sauce

If you make extra sauce or want to prepare ahead of time, you can freeze the tomato sauce separately. Let the sauce cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container or freezer-safe bag. This can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to use it, simply thaw it overnight in the refrigerator and reheat on the stove while you prepare fresh pasta.

Preventing Soggy Pasta

When storing leftover pasta, it’s important to separate the sauce from the pasta if possible. This helps prevent the pasta from absorbing too much sauce and becoming soggy. If you must store them together, toss the pasta with a small amount of olive oil to help keep the noodles from sticking together and becoming too soft.

Dietary Adaptations and Substitutions

Vegan and Dairy-Free Adaptations

To make this recipe vegan, simply omit the Parmesan cheese or replace it with a vegan cheese alternative. Many plant-based cheeses now mimic the texture and flavor of Parmesan and will work well in this recipe. You can also create a simple dairy-free topping by blending cashews, nutritional yeast, and garlic to make a vegan “Parmesan” substitute.

For a creamier twist without dairy, try adding a small amount of coconut cream or cashew cream to the sauce. These non-dairy alternatives will enrich the tomato sauce, giving it a silky, smooth texture without compromising the freshness of the dish.

Gluten-Free Version

For a gluten-free option, swap out the traditional pasta for gluten-free pasta. There are many excellent gluten-free varieties on the market made from rice, corn, or quinoa. These alternatives are perfect for those with gluten sensitivities and can be used without affecting the overall flavor of the dish. Just be sure to follow the package instructions for cooking, as gluten-free pasta may require slightly different cooking times than regular pasta.

Adding Extra Vegetables

To increase the nutritional content of the dish, consider adding extra vegetables. Sautéed zucchini, spinach, or bell peppers can easily be incorporated into the sauce. These vegetables not only boost the flavor but also provide more fiber and vitamins, making the dish even healthier.

FAQs About The Recipe

Can I Use Dried Basil Instead of Fresh?

While fresh basil is highly recommended for this dish due to its vibrant flavor, dried basil can be used in a pinch. Keep in mind that dried basil is more concentrated, so you’ll need about one-third of the amount called for in the recipe. Add the dried basil to the tomatoes as they cook to allow the flavor to develop.

Can I Use Other Pasta Shapes?

Absolutely! This recipe works well with a variety of pasta shapes. While spaghetti, linguine, and fettuccine are classic choices, you can also use penne, fusilli, or rigatoni. Larger pasta shapes tend to hold more sauce, so it’s a great way to ensure every bite is packed with flavor.

Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?

Yes, you can make the tomato sauce ahead of time and store it in the fridge for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to serve, simply reheat the sauce, cook the pasta, and toss

them together for a quick and easy meal.

Conclusion & Final Thoughts

Fresh Tomato Pasta with Basil is a simple, elegant dish that delivers incredible flavors from just a few basic ingredients. The combination of ripe tomatoes, fragrant basil, and savory Parmesan creates a light yet satisfying meal that can be enjoyed year-round. It’s versatile, easy to make, and customizable based on dietary preferences. Whether you enjoy it as is or add in your favorite protein or vegetables, this pasta dish is sure to become a favorite.

With minimal prep time and maximum flavor, this is a perfect go-to recipe for busy weeknights or a refreshing weekend lunch. Don’t forget to experiment with different types of tomatoes, pasta, and seasonings to make it your own!