Al Dente Penne with Tomato and Basil

A simple, vibrant pasta dish featuring tender penne tossed in a bright tomato and basil sauce.

Cuisine: Italian

Category: Pasta

Prep: 10 minutes. Cook: 25 minutes.

Serves 4.

Ingredients

Instructions

  1. Step 1: Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add 12 oz penne pasta and cook for 8-10 minutes until al dente, then drain and reserve 1/2 cup pasta water.
  2. Step 2: Heat 2 tbsp olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add 3 minced garlic cloves and cook for 1 minute until fragrant, being careful not to brown.
  3. Step 3: Add 28 oz drained diced tomatoes and 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes to the skillet. Simmer for 10 minutes until slightly thickened.
  4. Step 4: Add the drained penne pasta and 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil to the skillet. Toss with 1/2 cup reserved pasta water until the sauce coats the pasta evenly.
  5. Step 5: Season with 1 tsp salt and serve immediately.