I love using delicious garden tomatoes in simple recipes like this one, and my Tomato Pie , Caprese Salad, or Tomato Cucumber Salad.
Why I love this pasta:
Fresh – This pasta is full of the freshest Summer ingredients and it doesn’t make you feel weighed down! Another favorite lighter summer pasta dish is my Lemon Chicken Pasta!Quick – This is faster than take-out (and tastes a lot better too) at only 20 minutes! Perfect for a busy weeknight. I was originally inspired to make this from my love of the old Capellini Pomodoro pasta from Olive Garden. Family Favorite – You just can’t beat the perfect combination of pasta with tomatoes, basil, and parmesan cheese. This simple meal is loved by all!
How to make Tomato Basil Pasta:
Cook Pasta: Prepare pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside. Sauté Garlic: While pasta cooks, heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add oil. Once hot, add garlic and sauté for 30 seconds, careful not to burn it. Finish Sauce: Add freshly diced tomatoes and cook, stirring, about 2 to 3 minutes. Add fresh ground black pepper, to taste. Sprinkle with 2 tablespoons parmesan cheese. Add fresh chopped basil. In Italian-inspired pasta recipes we use sweet basil (commonly found at the grocery store). Serve simple sauce over cooked pasta. Garnish with remaining parmesan cheese. I love to serve with Easy Homemade Breadsticks or Garlic Knots on the side.
Variations:
Veggies: Try adding chopped spinach, onion, zucchini, or asparagus.Chicken: Add chicken to make it heartier, and add extra protein. Sauté the chicken in oil, first, (season with salt and pepper), then add garlic and continue with the recipe.Pasta: Use whole wheat spaghetti, or any other type of pasta.
More 30 Minute Meals:
The BEST Black Bean BurgerGallo PintoCheeseburger SaladAir Fryer MeatballsWalking TacosPesto Pasta SaladShrimp CreoleEasy Beef Stroganoff
I originally shared this recipe August 2015. Updated August 2020 and June 2022.
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