Indulge in the simplicity and freshness of our Tomato and Garlic Pasta. This quick and easy dish uses fresh tomatoes to create a vibrant sauce that pairs perfectly with delicate angel hair pasta. It’s a fantastic option for a quick weeknight dinner or when you need a meatless meal that doesn’t skimp on flavor.
Ingredients for Tomato and Garlic Pasta
- 2 pounds fresh tomatoes
- 1 (8 ounce) package angel hair pasta
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (more if needed)
- 4 cloves of garlic, crushed
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste
- Salt and ground black pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh basil
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions: How to Make Tomato and Garlic Pasta
Step 1: Prepare the Tomatoes
Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Place the tomatoes in the pot just until the skin starts to peel away, about 1 minute. Remove from boiling water, and place immediately into cold water. Peel the tomatoes and chop them into small pieces.
Step 2: Cook the Pasta
Bring another large pot of lightly salted water to a boil. Add the angel hair pasta and cook for 4 to 5 minutes, until tender yet firm to the bite. Drain and toss with a bit of olive oil.
Step 3: Make the Sauce
While the pasta cooks, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Sauté the garlic until opaque but not browned. Stir in the tomato paste, then add the chopped tomatoes. Season with salt and pepper. Simmer the sauce gently, reducing the heat if necessary until the pasta is ready. Stir in the fresh basil just before combining with the pasta.
Step 4: Combine Pasta and Sauce
Add the drained pasta directly to the sauce in the skillet. Toss well to coat the pasta evenly. Allow to sit over low heat for about 10 minutes to meld the flavors.
Step 5: Serve
Serve the pasta warm, topped generously with grated Parmesan cheese.
Recipe Tips
- Variations: For an extra touch of flavor, consider sautéing fresh mushrooms or adding shoestring zucchini along with the tomatoes.
- Serving suggestions: This pasta pairs wonderfully with a crisp green salad and a glass of your favorite white wine.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Fresh and light: Utilizing fresh tomatoes gives this dish a light and vibrant flavor that canned tomatoes simply can’t match.
- Quick and easy: Ready in just 45 minutes, this dish is perfect for a hassle-free meal.
- Versatile: Easy to customize with additional vegetables or herbs according to your taste preferences.
Nutritional Information (per serving)
- Calories: 260
- Total Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Cholesterol: 4mg
- Sodium: 236mg
- Carbohydrates: 42g
- Fiber: 5g
- Protein: 10g
- Vitamin C: 31mg
- Calcium: 86mg
- Iron: 2mg
- Potassium: 710mg