Sautéed Tomato and Garlic Pasta with Fresh Basil

Name: Sautéed Tomato and Garlic Pasta with Fresh Basil
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 4 servings
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 12 oz spaghetti; 3 tbsp olive oil; 4 cloves garlic; 28 oz crushed tomatoes; 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes; 1/2 cup fresh basil; 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese; to taste salt

A simple, comforting pasta dish featuring sun-ripened tomatoes and aromatic garlic, finished with a touch of fresh basil for brightness.

Cuisine: Italian

Category: Pasta

Prep: 15 minutes. Cook: 25 minutes.

Serves 4.

Ingredients

12 oz spaghetti
3 tbsp olive oil
4 cloves garlic
28 oz crushed tomatoes
1/4 tsp red pepper flakes
1/2 cup fresh basil
1/2 cup Parmesan cheese
to taste salt

Instructions

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, then drain and reserve 1/2 cup pasta water.
Step 2: Heat 3 tbsp olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add 4 minced garlic cloves and 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes, sautéing for 1 minute until fragrant — do not brown the garlic.
Step 3: Add 28 oz crushed tomatoes to the skillet, stirring to combine. Simmer for 5 minutes until sauce thickens slightly, then season with salt to taste.
Step 4: Add drained spaghetti and 1/2 cup reserved pasta water to the skillet. Toss vigorously for 2 minutes until sauce coats pasta evenly.
Step 5: Stir in 1/2 cup chopped fresh basil and 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese. Toss until cheese melts and sauce is glossy.