Savor the vibrant, summery flavors of Spaghetti with Fresh Tomatoes and Basil, a classic Italian-inspired dish that's as simple as it is satisfying. Perfect for busy weeknights, this recipe combines al dente spaghetti with sweet, ripe cherry tomatoes, aromatic garlic, and fragrant fresh basil for a light yet flavorful meal bursting with freshness. A rich drizzle of extra virgin olive oil ties the ingredients together, while optional red chili flakes add a touch of spice. Finished with a generous grating of Parmesan cheese, this quick 25-minute dish is a celebration of wholesome ingredients and effortless cooking. Serve this versatile spaghetti as a main course or a side dish, and enjoy the ultimate summer comfort food that's guaranteed to impress.
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the spaghetti according to the package instructions until al dente.
While the spaghetti is cooking, rinse the cherry tomatoes well and cut them in half.
Peel the garlic cloves and finely slice them.
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the sliced garlic and sauté for 1–2 minutes until fragrant, but do not let it brown.
Add the halved tomatoes to the skillet. Sprinkle with a pinch of salt and black pepper, and cook for about 5–7 minutes, gently stirring, until the tomatoes soften and release their juices.
Tear or thinly slice the fresh basil leaves and add them to the skillet. Stir to combine and cook for 1 more minute.
Reserve 1 cup of pasta cooking water, then drain the spaghetti and add it directly to the skillet with the tomato mixture.
Toss the spaghetti with the tomatoes and basil, adding some reserved pasta water as needed to create a silky sauce.
Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt, pepper, or chili flakes, if desired.
Grate Parmesan cheese over the top before serving, and garnish with a few extra basil leaves for a fresh touch.
Serve immediately and enjoy!
Calories |
1424 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 75.3 g | 97% | |
| Saturated Fat | 17.8 g | 89% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 0.0 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 44 mg | 15% | |
| Sodium | 2712 mg | 118% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 149.5 g | 54% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 14.7 g | 52% | |
| Total Sugars | 16.7 g | ||
| Protein | 45.3 g | 91% | |
| Vitamin D | 0.0 mcg | 0% | |
| Calcium | 592 mg | 46% | |
| Iron | 9.4 mg | 52% | |
| Potassium | 1501 mg | 32% | |
*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.