Fresh Tomato and Basil Pasta with Toasted Pine Nuts
Savor the vibrant flavors of summer with this Fresh Tomato and Basil Pasta with Toasted Pine Nuts recipe. Perfectly al dente spaghetti or linguine is tossed in a light, garlicky sauce featuring juicy, burst cherry tomatoes and aromatic fresh basil. The dish is elevated with the satisfying crunch of toasted pine nuts and a generous sprinkle of Parmesan cheese, creating a beautifully balanced blend of textures and tastes. With just 15 minutes of prep time and simple, wholesome ingredients, this quick and easy pasta dish is ideal for busy weeknights yet elegant enough for entertaining. Customize it with a dash of red pepper flakes for added heat, and serve it warm for a comforting, flavor-packed meal the whole family will enjoy. This recipe is a celebration of fresh, Mediterranean-inspired ingredients, perfect for showcasing seasonal produce.
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Recipe Information
Ingredients
- 12 oz spaghetti or linguine pasta
- 2 cups ripe cherry tomatoes
- 1 cup fresh basil leaves
- 0.25 cup pine nuts
- 3 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
- 2 pieces garlic cloves (minced)
- 0.5 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tsp salt
- 0.5 tsp black pepper
- 0.25 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
Instructions
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente, then drain and set aside, reserving 1/2 cup of pasta water.
While the pasta cooks, toast the pine nuts. Heat a small, dry skillet over medium heat and add the pine nuts. Stir frequently until they are golden brown and fragrant, about 3-4 minutes. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook until fragrant, about 1 minute.
Add the cherry tomatoes to the skillet and cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the tomatoes soften and begin to burst.
Season the tomato mixture with salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using), then stir in the fresh basil leaves.
Add the cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing it in the tomato mixture to coat evenly. If the pasta seems dry, add a bit of the reserved pasta water, one tablespoon at a time, until the desired consistency is reached.
Sprinkle the toasted pine nuts over the pasta, and toss gently to combine.
Serve the pasta warm, topped with grated Parmesan cheese and additional fresh basil, if desired.
Nutrition Facts
Calories |
343 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 19.5 g | 25% | |
| Saturated Fat | 3.9 g | 19% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 3.0 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 10 mg | 3% | |
| Sodium | 662 mg | 29% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 32.6 g | 12% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 3.7 g | 13% | |
| Total Sugars | 3.4 g | ||
| Protein | 11.7 g | 23% | |
| Vitamin D | 0.0 mcg | 0% | |
| Calcium | 151 mg | 12% | |
| Iron | 2.3 mg | 13% | |
| Potassium | 392 mg | 8% | |
*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.
