This tomato basil pasta is one of those quick, classic dinners we come back to again and again as a team on busy weeknights. Thin spaghetti tossed in a simple tomato sauce with basil and parmesan, which for us is exactly what real food for real life is all about.
With classic flavors we all know and love, this tomato basil pasta uses pantry staples and can be made with either canned tomatoes or fresh. Quick and easy, it highlights fresh ingredients for vibrant flavor, and it can be adjusted based on what you have on hand. Perfect for busy weeknights, this tomato basil pasta is one you will come back to over and over.
What makes this tomato basil pasta so good is the simplicity. A few pantry staples, fresh basil, and parmesan let the tomatoes shine.
Watch the Recipe Video
Watch how this tomato basil pasta comes together, step by step.
Why You Will Love This Tomato Basil Pasta
- Quick and easy. Ready in under 20 minutes.
- Pantry staples. Canned or fresh tomatoes both work.
- Fresh and vibrant. Bright tomato and basil flavor.
- Simple ingredients. Nothing fancy, all flavor.
- Flexible. Adjust it to what you have on hand.
What Makes This Tomato Basil Pasta So Good
Thin spaghetti or angel hair, the delicate, quick cooking pasta, soaks up the light tomato sauce beautifully.
A splash of pasta water makes it silky. The starchy water helps the sauce cling to every strand.
Fresh basil and parmesan finish it. Stirred in at the end, they add brightness and savory depth.
Whether you use fresh or canned, the tomato, the juicy, versatile fruit, is the heart of this simple sauce.
Optional Pro Tip: Save the Pasta Water
Save some pasta water. The starchy water makes the sauce silky.
Do not burn the garlic. Cook it gently over medium low heat.
Tips for the Best Tomato Basil Pasta
- Salt the pasta water. It seasons the pasta from within.
- Cook garlic gently. Over medium low so it does not burn.
- Soften the onion. Until tender for a sweet base.
- Reduce the tomatoes. A few minutes deepens the flavor.
- Save some pasta water. To loosen the sauce.
- Drain the tomatoes. So the sauce is not too watery.
- Toss to coat. So every strand is sauced.
- Finish with basil and parmesan. For fresh, savory flavor.
Variations and Add Ins
This tomato basil pasta is easy to customize.
- Use fresh tomatoes. In place of canned when in season.
- Add protein. Cooked chicken or shrimp stir right in.
- Make it spicier. A pinch of red pepper flakes.
- Add vegetables. Spinach, zucchini, or asparagus.
- Use a different pasta. Penne or linguine work well.
- Add mozzarella. For a creamy, cheesy touch.
- Make it creamy. A splash of cream for a richer sauce.
- Add olives or capers. For a briny, savory note.
How to Store and Reheat
Store the tomato basil pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. It makes a satisfying leftover lunch.
Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of water to loosen the sauce, since the pasta absorbs it as it sits. Stir until heated through.
Serving Suggestions for Tomato Basil Pasta
This tomato basil pasta is a satisfying meal on its own, perfect with a crisp green salad and a slice of garlic or crusty bread for sopping up the sauce.
It pairs beautifully with roasted vegetables, and a little extra parmesan on top makes it special. Add cooked chicken or shrimp to make it heartier.
For serving, twirl the pasta into bowls and finish with extra fresh basil, cracked black pepper, and a generous shower of grated parmesan.
- With a green salad. A fresh, light balance.
- With garlic bread. For sopping up the sauce.
- With roasted vegetables. A simple, hearty side.
- With extra parmesan. A savory finishing touch.
For a creamy, comforting pasta night instead, our creamy Cajun chicken pasta is a great one to try.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is tomato basil pasta?
It is a simple, classic pasta dish of thin spaghetti or angel hair tossed in a fresh tomato sauce with garlic, basil, and parmesan. Quick, light, and full of flavor.
Can I use fresh or canned tomatoes?
Both work beautifully. Canned diced tomatoes make it a year round pantry meal, while fresh tomatoes are wonderful when they are in season.
Why save pasta water?
The starchy pasta water helps the sauce cling to the pasta and loosens it to a silky consistency. Add a splash at a time until it coats nicely.
What pasta works best?
Thin spaghetti or angel hair is classic here, but any pasta works. Penne, linguine, or rigatoni are all good options.
Can I add protein?
Absolutely. Stir in cooked chicken or shrimp, or serve them on the side, to make it a heartier, more filling meal.
How do I keep it from being watery?
Drain the canned tomatoes well and reduce the sauce for a few minutes before adding the pasta, then add pasta water gradually only as needed.
Can I make it ahead of time?
It is best fresh, but leftovers keep for up to three days. Reheat with a splash of water, since the pasta absorbs the sauce as it sits.
Can I make it creamy?
Yes. Stir in a splash of cream or a little mozzarella at the end for a richer, creamier version of the dish.
How do I store leftovers?
Keep them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days, and reheat gently with a splash of water to loosen the sauce.
What should I serve with it?
A crisp green salad, garlic or crusty bread, and roasted vegetables all pair wonderfully with this fresh, simple pasta.
A Classic You Will Make on Repeat
This tomato basil pasta tosses tender thin spaghetti in a simple, fresh tomato sauce with garlic, balsamic, basil, and parmesan. It is the kind of quick, classic dish that uses pantry staples yet tastes vibrant and satisfying every time.
Easy enough for the busiest weeknight and endlessly adaptable, it is a recipe you will come back to over and over. Once you try it, this tomato basil pasta will be a regular in your rotation.
Craving another bright, satisfying favorite? Our healthy orange chicken is a great one to try next.
Results vary by ingredients, equipment, and cooking conditions. Always taste and adjust seasoning as you go.
Tomato Basil Pasta
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Cook the pasta according to the package instructions.
- Heat the olive oil in a large pan over medium low heat.
- Add the onion, garlic, and a big pinch of salt and pepper, and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
- Add the tomatoes and balsamic vinegar and cook until slightly reduced, about 5 to 8 minutes.
- When the pasta is done, add 1/2 cup of the pasta cooking water to the tomatoes.
- Drain the pasta and add it to the tomato sauce along with the basil and parmesan, then toss to combine.
- Taste and add more basil and salt as needed, then serve immediately.
Nutrition
Notes
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