Absolutely Delicious And Simple Tomato Basil And Garlic Pasta Recipe

Giada De Laurentiis' unbelievably easy and flavorful pasta recipe! This quick 23-minute meal uses fresh or canned tomatoes, fragrant basil, and savory garlic for a taste sensation. Elevate your weeknight dinner with this vibrant and satisfying dish – perfect for a romantic evening or a casual family meal. Learn how to make restaurant-quality pasta at home!

Prep Time 10 mins
Cook Time 23 mins
Calories 420.8 kcal
Protein 31g
Rating 3.8 (5 Reviews)
Absolutely Delicious And Simple Tomato Basil And Garlic Pasta

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Recipe Author

Chef Forktionary, author of this recipe

Passionate home cook & Forktionary contributor.

Ingredients for Absolutely Delicious And Simple Tomato Basil And Garlic Pasta

  • Spaghettini
  • Scallions
  • Garlic Cloves
  • Cherry Tomatoes
  • Parmesan Cheese
  • Fresh Basil Leaves
  • Salt & Freshly Ground Black Pepper
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • Fresh Mozzarella Cheese

How to Make Absolutely Delicious And Simple Tomato Basil And Garlic Pasta

  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add 1 pound of pasta (penne, rotini, or your favorite shape) and cook according to package directions until al dente, about 8 minutes, stirring occasionally.
  2. While the pasta cooks, combine 28 ounces (1 can) crushed tomatoes, 1/2 cup packed fresh basil leaves (or 2 teaspoons dried basil), 4 cloves garlic, 2 tablespoons olive oil, 1/2 teaspoon salt, and 1/4 teaspoon black pepper in a food processor.
  3. Pulse until the tomatoes are coarsely chopped but not pureed. Set aside.
  4. Drain the pasta, reserving about 1/2 cup of the pasta water.
  5. Add the tomato mixture and 8 ounces fresh mozzarella, torn into bite-sized pieces, to the drained pasta in a large bowl. Toss to combine.
  6. If the sauce is too thick, add a little of the reserved pasta water, one tablespoon at a time, until you reach your desired consistency.
  7. Serve immediately. Garnish with extra fresh basil, if desired.

Chef's Tip for Extra Flavor

Small additions can make a big impact! Try a sprinkle of fresh herbs, a dash of your favorite spice blend, or a squeeze of citrus just before serving to really enhance the flavors of your dish.

Nutrition Information (Approximate per serving)

Sodium

9 g

Sugar

17g

Fat

28g

Carbs

16g