Description
This Easy Pantry Tomato Basil Pasta is a simple, comforting dish made primarily from shelf-stable ingredients. Ready in just 20 minutes, it features al dente pasta tossed in a fragrant tomato and garlic sauce, enhanced with fresh basil and olive oil. Naturally vegetarian and easily made vegan, it’s a perfect last-minute dinner that’s light yet flavorful.
Ingredients
Scale
Pasta
- 12 oz (340g) pasta (spaghetti, penne, or linguine)
Sauce
- ¼ cup extra virgin olive oil
- 3–4 cloves garlic, thinly sliced or minced
- 1 (14–15 oz) can diced or crushed tomatoes
- ½ tsp salt (adjust to taste)
- ¼ tsp black pepper
- ½ tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
- ½ tsp dried oregano (optional)
- ¼–½ cup reserved pasta water
- ¼ cup chopped fresh basil (or 1 tsp dried basil)
Optional Finishes
- Grated Parmesan or Pecorino
- Extra drizzle of olive oil
- Splash of balsamic vinegar
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook pasta until al dente according to package directions. Reserve ½ cup pasta water before draining the pasta.
- Build the Sauce: While the pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add garlic and sauté for 30–60 seconds until fragrant, making sure not to brown the garlic. Stir in the canned tomatoes, salt, pepper, red pepper flakes (if using), and oregano (if using). Simmer the sauce for 5–8 minutes to allow it to slightly thicken.
- Combine: Add the drained pasta directly into the skillet with the sauce. Toss well to coat the pasta, adding a splash of the reserved pasta water as needed to loosen the sauce and create a silky texture. Stir in the chopped fresh basil.
- Serve: Plate the pasta and finish with optional toppings such as grated Parmesan, an extra drizzle of olive oil, or additional fresh basil. Enjoy immediately.
Notes
- To add protein, stir in canned white beans or chickpeas.
- For more Mediterranean flavor, add olives or capers.
- A squeeze of lemon juice brightens the dish.
- Top with toasted breadcrumbs for a crunchy texture.
- Emulsify the olive oil, tomato sauce, and pasta water by tossing vigorously to achieve a glossy, restaurant-quality finish.
