Are you ready to elevate your pasta game with a dish that’s bursting with flavor and takes just 25 minutes to prepare? Meet the Fresh Tomato Garlic and Olive Oil Pasta, an irresistible Italian classic that combines the simplicity of fresh ingredients with the comfort of al dente pasta. Imagine biting into perfectly cooked noodles enveloped in a luscious sauce made from juicy tomatoes and aromatic garlic, all drizzled with rich olive oil. This recipe is not just a meal; it's an experience that will transport you straight to the heart of Italy. Don’t miss out on creating this delightful dish that’s sure to impress your family and friends!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 15 mins
Total Time: 25 mins
Cuisine: Italian
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 8 oz pasta
- 4 fresh tomatoes, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil for garnish
Instructions
- Fill a large pot with water and add a generous pinch of salt. Bring the water to a rolling boil over high heat.
- Add the pasta to the boiling water and cook according to package instructions until al dente, typically 8-10 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
- While the pasta is cooking, wash and dice the fresh tomatoes into small, uniform cubes. Peel and finely mince the garlic cloves.
- In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-low heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté gently for 1-2 minutes until fragrant, being careful not to brown the garlic.
- Add the diced tomatoes to the skillet with the garlic. Season with salt and pepper. Cook for 3-4 minutes, allowing the tomatoes to soften and release their juices.
- Drain the cooked pasta, reserving about 1/4 cup of pasta water in case you need to adjust the sauce consistency.
- Transfer the drained pasta directly into the skillet with the tomato and garlic mixture. Toss thoroughly to coat the pasta evenly.
- If the sauce seems dry, add a small amount of reserved pasta water to create a light, silky texture.
- Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed.
- Remove from heat and garnish with freshly torn basil leaves.
- Serve immediately in warm pasta bowls, drizzling with a little extra olive oil if desired.
Tips
- Choose the Right Pasta: Opt for high-quality pasta, such as spaghetti or linguine, for the best texture and flavor. Fresh pasta can also elevate this dish even further!
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh tomatoes and garlic make all the difference. Look for ripe, in-season tomatoes for a sweeter, more flavorful sauce.
- Don’t Rush the Garlic: Sauté the garlic gently over medium-low heat to release its aroma without burning it. Burnt garlic can turn bitter and ruin your sauce.
- Reserve Pasta Water: Always save a bit of the pasta cooking water! It’s starchy and can help adjust the sauce's consistency to your liking.
- Experiment with Herbs: While fresh basil is traditional, feel free to add other herbs like parsley or oregano for a unique twist.
- Finish with Olive Oil: A drizzle of high-quality extra virgin olive oil before serving enhances the dish’s flavor and adds a beautiful sheen.
- Serve Immediately: Pasta is best enjoyed fresh! Serve it right after mixing with the sauce for the most enjoyable experience.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 380kcal
Carbohydrates: 45g
Protein: 10g
Fat: 18g
Saturated Fat: 3g
Cholesterol: 0mg
