Fresh Tomato Pasta: A Burst of Sunshine on Your Plate
Summer's bounty is at its peak, and what better way to celebrate than with a vibrant and flavorful fresh tomato pasta recipe? This dish is incredibly simple to make, requiring minimal ingredients and even less time, yet it delivers a taste sensation that's both satisfying and refreshing. Forget jarred sauces – this recipe elevates pasta night to a whole new level.
Ingredients You'll Need:
This recipe is designed for two hungry people, but can easily be scaled up for larger gatherings.
- 1 pound of pasta: Choose your favorite shape! Spaghetti, linguine, or even penne would work beautifully.
- 2 pounds of ripe tomatoes: The star of the show! Look for a mix of colors and varieties for a more complex flavor profile. Heirloom tomatoes are particularly delicious.
- 2 cloves garlic: Minced, because we're not afraid of flavor.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil: A good quality extra virgin olive oil is essential for optimal flavor.
- 1/4 cup fresh basil: Chopped, for that classic Italian touch.
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper: To taste, of course.
- Optional additions: Red pepper flakes for a touch of heat, a pinch of sugar to balance acidity, or a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese to finish.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
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Prep the Tomatoes: Wash and roughly chop your tomatoes. The size doesn't need to be perfect; a rustic chop adds to the charm.
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Sauté the Garlic: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about a minute, until fragrant – be careful not to burn it!
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Simmer the Tomatoes: Add the chopped tomatoes to the skillet and season generously with salt and pepper. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for about 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally. The tomatoes will soften and release their juices, creating a delicious sauce. If you're using red pepper flakes, add them now.
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Cook the Pasta: While the tomatoes simmer, cook your pasta according to the package directions. Reserve about 1/2 cup of the pasta water before draining.
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Combine and Serve: Add the cooked pasta to the tomato sauce and toss to coat. If the sauce is too thick, add a little of the reserved pasta water to loosen it up. Stir in the fresh basil.
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Garnish and Enjoy: Serve immediately, garnished with extra basil and a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese (if using). A drizzle of extra virgin olive oil adds an extra touch of richness.
Tips for the Perfect Fresh Tomato Pasta:
- Use ripe tomatoes: The flavor of this dish heavily depends on the quality of your tomatoes. Choose ripe, in-season tomatoes for the best results.
- Don't overcook the garlic: Burnt garlic will ruin the dish! Keep a close eye on it while it's sautéing.
- Adjust seasoning to taste: Feel free to adjust the salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes to your liking. A pinch of sugar can help balance the acidity of the tomatoes.
- Get creative with additions: Experiment with other herbs and spices, such as oregano, thyme, or a pinch of red pepper flakes for some heat.
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