Bright, fresh, and bursting with Italian-inspired flavor, Fresh Tomato Basil Linguine is the perfect quick and easy weeknight dinner that feels effortlessly elegant. This vibrant dish combines tender linguine with juicy cherry tomatoes, fragrant garlic, and a generous handful of freshly chopped basil, all gently sautéed in quality extra-virgin olive oil. A dash of red pepper flakes adds a subtle kick, while an optional sprinkle of Parmesan cheese offers a creamy, savory finish. Ready in just 30 minutes, this recipe delivers restaurant-worthy results in the comfort of your own home. Whether you're looking for a light summer pasta or a comforting yet zesty meal, this linguine is sure to become a household favorite. Perfectly customizable and endlessly satisfying, serve it with crusty bread and a crisp side salad for the ultimate Mediterranean feast.
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the linguine according to the package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water and drain the rest.
Meanwhile, halve the cherry tomatoes and mince the garlic cloves. Chop the fresh basil leaves into small pieces, setting aside a few whole leaves for garnish.
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.
Add the halved cherry tomatoes to the skillet, along with the red pepper flakes, salt, and black pepper. Cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the tomatoes soften and release their juices.
Add the cooked linguine to the skillet and toss to coat it evenly with the tomato mixture. If the pasta seems dry, add a splash of the reserved pasta water, 1 tablespoon at a time, until the desired consistency is reached.
Stir in the chopped basil and cook for 1 more minute to let the flavors meld together.
Serve the linguine hot, garnished with the reserved basil leaves and freshly grated Parmesan cheese, if desired.
Calories |
2011 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 102.4 g | 131% | |
| Saturated Fat | 20.6 g | 103% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 0.0 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 234 mg | 78% | |
| Sodium | 4496 mg | 195% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 203.6 g | 74% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 13.3 g | 48% | |
| Total Sugars | 15.9 g | ||
| Protein | 61.7 g | 123% | |
| Vitamin D | 0.3 mcg | 2% | |
| Calcium | 877 mg | 67% | |
| Iron | 14.6 mg | 81% | |
| Potassium | 1432 mg | 30% | |
*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.