This Classic Italian Pasta Al Pomodoro is a deliciously simple dish made with fresh tomatoes, garlic, and basil. It’s comfort food that warms the heart!
You can’t go wrong with pasta coated in a bright, flavorful sauce. I love making this when I want something quick and tasty—just boil, sauce, and serve. Easy peasy!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pasta: Spaghetti is a classic choice, but feel free to use any pasta shape like penne or linguine. Just remember cooking times may vary, so follow package instructions for al dente.
Tomatoes: Fresh tomatoes make the sauce vibrant and flavorful. If they’re out of season, canned San Marzano tomatoes are your best bet. They offer great taste and convenience.
Olive Oil: Extra virgin olive oil adds richness. If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can use light olive oil or avocado oil instead.
Garlic: Fresh garlic really elevates the flavor. You can substitute with garlic powder in a pinch, but fresh is always better for aroma and taste.
Basil: Fresh basil adds a lovely aroma and flavor. If you don’t have fresh basil, dried oregano or Italian seasoning can work, but they won’t have the same freshness.
How Do I Get My Sauce to the Right Consistency?
Getting the perfect sauce thickness can take a little practice. It’s all about simmering! Here’s how:
- Start cooking your sauce after adding the tomatoes.
- Let it bubble gently. If it’s too thin, simmer longer to reduce it. If it’s too thick, add some reserved pasta water!
- Stir occasionally to prevent it from sticking. The right consistency should coat the pasta but not be too heavy.
Enjoy the fresh, homemade flavors of your Pasta Al Pomodoro! It’s perfect for a cozy dinner or a quick weeknight meal.
Classic Italian Pasta Al Pomodoro
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Pasta:
- 400 grams (14 oz) spaghetti or your preferred pasta
For the Sauce:
- 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, thinly sliced
- 800 grams (28 oz) ripe tomatoes (fresh plum or San Marzano), peeled and chopped or canned whole tomatoes
- Salt, to taste
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- A pinch of sugar (optional, to balance acidity)
- A handful of fresh basil leaves
For Serving:
- Freshly grated Parmesan cheese
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful Pasta Al Pomodoro takes about 10 minutes to prepare and around 20 minutes to cook, totaling approximately 30 minutes from start to finish. Perfect for a quick and satisfying meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Once boiling, add the pasta and cook it according to the package instructions until it’s al dente. Once done, reserve a cup of the pasta water and then drain the pasta.
2. Make the Sauce:
While your pasta is cooking, heat the extra virgin olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the thinly sliced garlic and sauté for about 1-2 minutes, just until it’s fragrant and lightly golden. Keep a close eye on it to prevent burning, as burnt garlic can taste bitter!
3. Add the Tomatoes:
Next, add the chopped fresh tomatoes (or canned tomatoes with their juice) to the skillet. Season the mixture with salt, pepper, and a pinch of sugar if you like. Allow it to simmer gently for about 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally. You want the sauce to thicken just a bit during this time.
4. Incorporate the Basil:
Before turning off the heat, tear most of the fresh basil leaves and stir them into the sauce. The heat will release their delightful aroma!
5. Combine Pasta and Sauce:
Now, add the drained pasta to your sauce. Toss everything together gently, making sure all the pasta is coated. If the sauce is a bit too thick, add a splash of the reserved pasta water to reach your desired consistency.
6. Serve and Garnish:
Plate your pasta and garnish with any remaining fresh basil leaves. Finish it off with a generous sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan cheese. Enjoy your authentic Italian Pasta Al Pomodoro!
Buon Appetito!
Can I Use Canned Tomatoes Instead of Fresh?
Absolutely! Canned tomatoes, especially San Marzano, are a great alternative when fresh tomatoes aren’t in season. They provide rich flavor and save you the hassle of peeling and chopping.
How Do I Adjust the Spice Level?
If you’d like to add a bit of heat to your Pasta Al Pomodoro, consider adding red pepper flakes when sautéing the garlic. Start with a pinch and adjust according to your taste!
Can I Make This Dish Vegan?
Yes, simply omit the Parmesan cheese or use a vegan alternative. The dish is still deliciously flavorful with the tomato and basil sauce!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Leftover Pasta Al Pomodoro can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm it on the stove with a splash of water or broth to loosen the sauce.