Pasta Pomodoro Recipe

Introduction

Pasta Pomodoro is a simple yet incredibly delicious Italian dish that showcases the beauty of fresh, ripe tomatoes and a perfectly cooked pasta. This iconic dish is light, fresh, and bursting with the flavors of summer. The term “Pomodoro” refers to the tomatoes that are the heart of this dish, combined with garlic, basil, and a touch of olive oil to create a light sauce that clings to the pasta. It’s a fantastic meal for both everyday dinners and special occasions.

Whether you’re a beginner cook or an experienced home chef, Pasta Pomodoro is a dish that’s easy to prepare, requiring just a handful of fresh ingredients and minimal cooking time. This guide will walk you through the recipe, offer tips for achieving the perfect sauce, and provide variations to try for an even more personalized dish.

Why You’ll Love Pasta Pomodoro

• Fresh and Flavorful: The key to Pasta Pomodoro is the use of fresh, ripe tomatoes. This creates a light and vibrant sauce that pairs perfectly with the pasta. It’s simple, but the quality of ingredients really shines through.
• Quick and Easy: With a preparation time of just 15 minutes and cooking time of around 20 minutes, Pasta Pomodoro is a perfect dish for busy nights when you want a delicious, satisfying meal without spending hours in the kitchen.
• Healthy and Light: With just a few ingredients and no heavy cream or cheese, this dish is lighter than many other pasta recipes, making it a great option for a healthy, satisfying meal.
• Versatile: While the base recipe is simple and classic, there are countless variations you can try, including adding protein, vegetables, or even a spicy kick with red pepper flakes. You can also use your choice of pasta shape to make the dish your own.
• Perfect for All Occasions: Whether you’re cooking for a casual family dinner, a date night, or a gathering with friends, Pasta Pomodoro is a crowd-pleaser that’s sure to impress.

Preparation and Cooking Time

• Total Time: 35 minutes
• Preparation Time: 15 minutes
• Cooking Time: 20 minutes
• Servings: 4 servings
• Calories per Serving: Around 350-400 calories per serving, depending on the portion size and type of pasta used.

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

• Calories: 350-400 kcal
• Fat: 10-12g
• Carbohydrates: 50-55g
• Protein: 7-9g
• Fiber: 3-4g
• Sugar: 6-8g

Ingredients

For the Pasta Pomodoro:

• 1 pound (16 oz) pasta (spaghetti, penne, or your preferred pasta shape)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 4 cups fresh tomatoes, chopped (or 2 cans (14.5 oz) of diced tomatoes, drained)
• 1 teaspoon salt, or to taste
• ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
• ½ teaspoon dried oregano (optional)
• 1 teaspoon fresh basil, chopped (plus extra for garnish)
• ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a spicy kick)
• ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional, for serving)
• Fresh basil leaves (for garnish)

Special Equipment

To make Pasta Pomodoro, you don’t need any special equipment, but a few basic kitchen tools will help you prepare the dish more easily:

1. Large Pot for Boiling Pasta: You’ll need a large pot of salted water to cook the pasta. Be sure to bring the water to a rolling boil before adding the pasta for the best texture.
2. Large Skillet or Pan: A large skillet or sauté pan is ideal for cooking the garlic, tomatoes, and seasonings. The wide surface area will help the sauce cook evenly and quickly.
3. Wooden Spoon: A wooden spoon is great for stirring the sauce and pasta, as it won’t scratch your pans and allows for easy mixing.
4. Strainer or Colander: For draining the pasta after it’s cooked, a colander is essential to ensure all the water drains off before tossing it in the sauce.
5. Sharp Knife: A sharp knife makes chopping tomatoes and garlic quick and easy, ensuring you can prep your ingredients without any hassle.
6. Grater: If you’re using Parmesan cheese, a fine grater will allow you to freshly grate the cheese, giving the dish added flavor.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Cook the Pasta

Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil over high heat. Once the water is boiling, add the pasta and cook according to the package instructions, usually around 8-10 minutes, until the pasta is al dente.

Be sure to stir the pasta occasionally to prevent it from sticking together. Once the pasta is cooked, drain it in a colander, reserving about 1 cup of pasta cooking water to add to the sauce if needed. Set the cooked pasta aside.

2. Prepare the Sauce

While the pasta is cooking, heat the olive oil in a large skillet or sauté pan over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the minced garlic and cook for about 1-2 minutes, stirring frequently, until it becomes fragrant and golden brown. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as it can become bitter.

Add the chopped fresh tomatoes to the pan, followed by the salt, pepper, and oregano (if using). If you’re using canned tomatoes, be sure to drain them well before adding them to the pan. Stir the mixture to combine, and cook for about 8-10 minutes, or until the tomatoes have softened and released their juices, creating a light sauce.

3. Add Basil and Optional Red Pepper Flakes

Once the tomatoes have broken down into a sauce, add the fresh chopped basil. Stir to incorporate the basil into the sauce. If you enjoy a bit of heat, sprinkle in some red pepper flakes for a spicy kick. Let the sauce simmer for another 2-3 minutes to meld the flavors together.

4. Combine Pasta and Sauce

Add the cooked pasta to the skillet with the sauce, tossing to combine and ensuring the pasta is evenly coated with the tomato mixture. If the sauce seems too thick, you can add a little reserved pasta cooking water, a tablespoon at a time, until you achieve the desired consistency.

Cook the pasta and sauce together for an additional 2-3 minutes to allow the flavors to blend.

5. Serve and Garnish

Divide the pasta among serving plates. If desired, sprinkle the top with freshly grated Parmesan cheese and additional fresh basil leaves for garnish. You can also add an extra drizzle of olive oil for a touch of richness.

Tips for Perfect Pasta Pomodoro

• Use Ripe Tomatoes: Fresh tomatoes are the star of the show in Pasta Pomodoro, so choose ripe, in-season tomatoes for the best flavor. If fresh tomatoes are not in season, high-quality canned tomatoes can be a good substitute.
• Cook Pasta Al Dente: Cooking the pasta al dente (firm to the bite) is key to achieving the perfect texture. Don’t overcook the pasta, as it will continue to cook a little when tossed with the sauce.
• Reserve Pasta Water: The starchy pasta water is a secret weapon in creating a silky sauce that clings to the pasta. Be sure to reserve some water before draining the pasta and add it to the sauce if it needs a bit more moisture or thickness.
• Adjust Seasonings to Taste: The simplicity of this dish allows the flavors of the tomatoes to shine, but feel free to adjust the salt, pepper, and herbs to suit your taste. If you like more garlic, feel free to add an extra clove.
• Don’t Skip the Basil: Fresh basil is essential for that classic Pasta Pomodoro flavor. Add it at the end of cooking to preserve its bright, aromatic qualities.
• Use High-Quality Olive Oil: Since olive oil is one of the main ingredients, using a high-quality extra virgin olive oil will add richness and depth of flavor to the dish.

Variations of Pasta Pomodoro

• Pasta Pomodoro with Mozzarella: Add chunks of fresh mozzarella to the pasta just before serving for a creamy, indulgent twist. The mozzarella will melt slightly when mixed with the hot pasta and sauce, creating a rich and satisfying dish.
• Pasta Pomodoro with Grilled Chicken: For added protein, top your Pasta Pomodoro with grilled chicken breast. The smoky flavor of the chicken pairs beautifully with the fresh tomato sauce.
• Pasta Pomodoro with Shrimp: Shrimp cooks quickly and can be added to the sauce just before mixing with the pasta. This variation adds a touch of elegance to the dish while still keeping it light.
• Pasta Pomodoro with Veggies: Add sautéed vegetables like zucchini, eggplant, or bell peppers for a more hearty, vegetarian version of Pasta Pomodoro. The veggies will add texture and additional flavor to the dish.
• Spicy Pasta Pomodoro: For a spicy version, add more red pepper flakes or a few dashes of hot sauce to the tomato sauce. This adds a nice heat that balances the sweetness of the tomatoes.

Storage and Shelf Life

Pasta Pomodoro is best enjoyed fresh, but you can store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days. Reheat the pasta gently in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of water or olive oil to prevent it from drying out.

If you want to freeze the dish, store the pasta and sauce separately in freezer-safe containers. The pasta can be frozen for up to 1 month, while the sauce will last for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Side Dishes and Pairings for Pasta Pomodoro

• Garlic Bread: A warm, crispy slice of garlic bread is the perfect accompaniment to Pasta Pomodoro. Its buttery, garlicky flavor is the ideal contrast to the fresh and light pasta.
• Caesar Salad: A crisp Caesar salad with romaine lettuce, croutons, and Parmesan cheese complements the richness of the pasta while adding a refreshing crunch.
• Roasted Vegetables: Roasted vegetables like bell peppers, eggplant, or asparagus make a great side dish to serve alongside Pasta Pomodoro, adding extra flavor and texture.
• Tiramisu: For dessert, a classic Italian tiramisu is a delicious way to finish off a meal. The light, coffee-flavored layers of mascarpone and ladyfingers are a perfect complement to the bright flavors of the pasta.

Print

Conclusion

Pasta Pomodoro is a timeless dish that highlights the beauty of simple, fresh ingredients. With just a few pantry staples and fresh tomatoes, you can create a vibrant, flavorful meal in no time. It’s a dish that’s perfect for any occasion, from a busy weeknight dinner to a special celebration. The key to its success is quality ingredients, and when done right, it’s a delightful, satisfying meal that everyone will love.

Whether you stick to the classic recipe or add your own personal twist, Pasta Pomodoro is a dish that never goes out of style. Try it tonight and enjoy the delicious flavors of Italy in the comfort of your home!