Classic Spaghetti Pomodoro with Fresh Tomato Basil Sauce

Spaghetti Pomodoro (Pasta in Tomato Basil Sauce)

Description
Spaghetti Pomodoro, also known as Pasta in Tomato Basil Sauce, is a simple yet delicious Italian dish. This recipe features spaghetti tossed in a fresh tomato sauce made with garlic, basil, and extra virgin olive oil, and is finished with a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese. The name “Pomodoro” comes from the Italian word for tomatoes. Bursting with flavor, this dish is perfect for weeknight dinners. When paired with a fresh garden salad, it makes for a well-rounded meal that the whole family will love!

Cuisine: European
Course: Main Course
Diet: Vegetarian

Ingredients

• 2 cups Homemade tomato puree
• 4 cloves Garlic, minced
• 1/4 cup Extra virgin olive oil
• 4 Basil leaves, torn
• 450 grams Durum wheat spaghetti (or bucatini)
• Red chili flakes, to taste
• Salt, to taste
• Whole black peppercorns, crushed, to taste
• 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese, finely grated

Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes

Instructions

1. Prepare the Pomodoro Sauce:

   • Start by making the tomato puree (refer to a recipe for homemade tomato puree).
   • In a heavy-bottomed saucepan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for a few seconds, just until fragrant.
   • Add the tomato puree to the pan along with salt, crushed black pepper, and red chili flakes. Bring the sauce to a brisk boil.
   • Reduce the heat to low, cover the pan, and let the sauce simmer for 10 to 15 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
   • Stir in the fresh basil leaves and remove the pan from the heat. Set the sauce aside.

2. Cook the Pasta:

   • While the sauce is simmering, bring a large pot of water to a boil. Season the water with salt, then add the spaghetti.
   • Cook the pasta, stirring occasionally, until tender—about 8 to 10 minutes, or as directed on the package.
   • Once the spaghetti is cooked, drain it and set it aside.

3. Combine the Pasta and Sauce:

   • Add the cooked spaghetti into the Pomodoro sauce, tossing gently to coat the pasta evenly.
   • Allow the pasta to cook in the sauce for 3 to 4 minutes, ensuring it is well coated and heated through.

4. Serve:

   • Spoon the Spaghetti Pomodoro into serving bowls.
   • Sprinkle with finely grated Parmesan cheese and serve warm.

Serve with: A fresh garden salad for a complete meal.

Enjoy your flavorful and easy-to-make Spaghetti Pomodoro, perfect for a cozy weeknight dinner or as a crowd-pleasing dish for your next gathering!