Herb-Infused Tomato and Basil Pasta

A vibrant pasta dish featuring sun-ripened tomatoes and fresh basil in a simple olive oil base, ideal for summer evenings.

Cuisine: Italian

Category: Pasta

Prep: 15 minutes. Cook: 25 minutes.

Serves 4.

Ingredients

• 12 oz spaghetti
• 3 tbsp olive oil
• 1/2 cup, finely diced red onion
• 2 cloves, minced garlic
• 2 cups, diced ripe tomatoes
• 1/4 cup, chopped fresh basil
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp black pepper
• 1/4 cup reserved pasta water

Instructions

1. Step 1: Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil, add 12 oz spaghetti, and cook for 8-10 minutes until al dente; drain and reserve 1/4 cup pasta water.
2. Step 2: Heat 3 tbsp olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat, add 1/2 cup diced red onion, and cook for 5 minutes until translucent, then stir in 2 minced garlic cloves and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
3. Step 3: Add 2 cups diced ripe tomatoes to the skillet, season with 1/2 tsp salt and 1/4 tsp black pepper, and simmer for 8 minutes until tomatoes break down and form a sauce.
4. Step 4: Toss the drained spaghetti into the skillet with the tomato sauce, add 1/4 cup reserved pasta water, and cook for 2 minutes while stirring vigorously until the sauce clings to the pasta.
5. Step 5: Remove from heat, stir in 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil, and serve immediately.