Spaghetti with Garlic and Fresh Tomatoes

Name: Spaghetti with Garlic and Fresh Tomatoes
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4 servings
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 400 g spaghetti; 3 tablespoons olive oil; 4 cloves garlic (thinly sliced); 500 g fresh tomatoes (chopped); 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1/4 teaspoon black pepper (freshly ground); 1/2 cup fresh basil leaves (torn); 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese (grated)

30 min 4 servings Easy

All Recipes

A simple yet flavourful pasta dish featuring garlic and fresh tomatoes, perfect for a quick and satisfying meal.

Prep

15 min

Cook

15 min

Total

30 min

Servings

Difficulty

Easy

Spaghetti with garlic and fresh tomatoes is a delightful dish that combines simple ingredients to create a rich and satisfying meal. This classic Italian-inspired recipe is perfect for those nights when you crave something delicious yet easy to prepare. The beauty of this dish lies in its simplicity. With just a handful of fresh ingredients, you can whip up a comforting plate of pasta that bursts with the vibrant flavours of ripe tomatoes and aromatic garlic. It's a testament to how a few high-quality components can make all the difference.

Instructions

Cook the spaghetti

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the spaghetti and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water, then drain the spaghetti.

Pro tip: Stir the pasta occasionally to prevent it from sticking.

Prepare the garlic

In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the sliced garlic and sauté for about 2 minutes until golden and fragrant.

Pro tip: Be careful not to burn the garlic; adjust the heat if necessary.

Add the tomatoes

Add the chopped tomatoes to the skillet. Season with salt and pepper. Cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the tomatoes have softened and released their juices.

Pro tip: Use ripe tomatoes for the best flavour.

Combine pasta and sauce

Add the cooked spaghetti to the skillet with the tomato sauce. Toss to combine, adding reserved pasta water as needed to achieve desired consistency.

Pro tip: Use tongs to mix the pasta and sauce thoroughly.

Add fresh basil

Stir in the torn basil leaves and continue to cook for another minute to let the flavours meld.

Pro tip: Add the basil just before serving to retain its fresh flavour.

Serve

Divide the spaghetti among four plates. Top with grated Parmesan cheese and additional basil leaves if desired.

Pro tip: Serve immediately for the best taste.

💡

Tips & Tricks

Use ripe, juicy tomatoes for the best flavour.
Don't overcook the garlic; it should be golden, not burnt.
Add fresh basil at the end for a burst of aroma.
Reserve some pasta water to adjust sauce consistency.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best type of tomato for this sauce?

Ripe, juicy tomatoes like Roma or vine-ripened are best for this sauce.

How long should I cook the garlic?

Cook the garlic for about 2 minutes until it is golden and fragrant.

Can I use dried basil instead of fresh?

Fresh basil is recommended for the best flavour, but you can use dried basil if necessary, adding it earlier during cooking.

How do I prevent the garlic from burning?

Cook the garlic on medium heat and stir frequently. Reduce heat if it begins to brown too quickly.

How much pasta water should I reserve?

Reserve about 1 cup of pasta water to adjust the sauce consistency as needed.

Serving Suggestions

This spaghetti dish is best served immediately after preparation, garnished with freshly grated Parmesan cheese and a sprinkle of fresh basil leaves. Pair it with a crisp green salad and a glass of dry white wine for a complete meal. If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stovetop, adding a splash of water or olive oil to loosen the sauce.

Nutrition per serving

450

Calories

14g

Protein

12g

Fat

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