Simple Tomato Basil Pasta
This no-fuss pasta dish is all about pure, delicious flavor! With just a few ingredients, it’s a quick, classic recipe that’s perfect for a cozy lunch or dinner.
Ingredients
- Pasta: 9 oz (250g) spaghetti or other long-cut pasta
- Tomatoes: 1 lb (500g), grated (see notes)
- Butter: 4 tbsp (2 oz / 60g), divided
- Parmesan Cheese: ⅓ cup (1 oz / 30g), freshly grated
- Garlic: 2 cloves, finely diced
- Basil: Handful of fresh, finely diced
- Chili Flakes: To taste
- Salt and Pepper: To taste
Instructions
- Prep the Tomatoes:
Grate each tomato into a bowl using a box grater, discarding the skin when you reach it. - Make the Sauce:
In a large pan over medium heat, melt 3½ tablespoons of butter (reserve the remaining ½ tablespoon for later). Add garlic and chili flakes, cooking for 1-2 minutes. Pour in grated tomatoes, season with salt and pepper, and stir well. Let the sauce gently simmer for about 15 minutes, stirring occasionally until it begins to thicken and blend with the butter. - Cook the Pasta:
Meanwhile, cook the pasta in heavily salted boiling water until al dente. - Combine Pasta and Sauce:
Use tongs to transfer the pasta directly into the pan with the tomato sauce. Add fresh basil and Parmesan, tossing to combine. Add a splash of pasta water as needed to reach your desired sauce consistency. If the sauce becomes too thin, simmer and toss until it thickens and clings to the pasta. - Finish and Serve:
Add the final ½ tablespoon of butter, toss until melted, and adjust seasoning to taste. Serve with extra basil and Parmesan. Enjoy!