Description
Summertime Spaghetti with Fresh Tomato Sauce is a light and vibrant Italian pasta dish that highlights the bright, natural flavors of ripe tomatoes, fresh basil, garlic, and extra virgin olive oil. This easy-to-make recipe features perfectly cooked spaghetti tossed in a simple, fresh tomato sauce, making it an ideal meal to enjoy during the summer months when tomatoes are at their peak.
Ingredients
Pasta
- 12 oz spaghetti
Fresh Tomato Sauce
- 2 lbs ripe tomatoes, diced
- 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- ¼ cup fresh basil, chopped
- 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar (optional)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
Finishing Touches
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh basil leaves, for garnish
Instructions
- Cook Spaghetti: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add spaghetti and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve ½ cup of the pasta cooking water and then drain the spaghetti.
- Sauté Garlic: In a large skillet over medium heat, warm the olive oil. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant but not browned.
- Cook Tomatoes: Add the diced tomatoes to the skillet. Cook for 8 to 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the tomatoes soften and release their juices, forming a light sauce.
- Season Sauce: Stir in chopped fresh basil leaves and balsamic vinegar if using. Season the sauce with salt and black pepper to taste. Let the flavors meld for a minute.
- Toss Pasta with Sauce: Add the cooked spaghetti directly into the skillet with the tomato sauce. Toss everything together, adding reserved pasta water a little at a time as needed to reach the desired sauce consistency.
- Finish and Garnish: Sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese over the pasta and toss to combine. Serve immediately, garnished with fresh basil leaves.
Notes
- Use vine-ripened or heirloom tomatoes for the freshest, most flavorful sauce.
- For added protein, toss in grilled chicken or shrimp.
- Finish the dish with a drizzle of high-quality extra virgin olive oil for extra richness and flavor.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian