Serious Tomato-Basil Pasta with Fresh Pesto

By AislePrompt Test Kitchen · Reviewed by AislePrompt Editorial · ·

A vibrant Italian pasta dish where handmade pesto and slow-simmered tomatoes create a layered flavor profile demanding precise technique. This italian-inspired pasta ready in about 55 minutes blends ounces spaghetti, tablespoons olive oil, garlic into a versatile sauce that lifts everything from grain bowls and roasted vegetables to grilled proteins — a small-batch staple worth keeping in the fridge. Each serving lands at about 400 calories and feeds 4, so a small batch covers several meals across the week without taking over the fridge. Tap "Plan a meal with the AI" below to drop this recipe into your week and send the ingredients straight to Instacart. Nutrition values are approximate, calculated from USDA FoodData Central (fdc.nal.usda.gov) — verify against ingredient labels for any health-driven dietary plan.

★ 4.0 (9 ratings) Prep: 20 min Cook: 35 min Serves 4 Italian cuisine 400 cal/serving
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Ingredients

Instructions

  1. Step 1: Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil; add 12 ounces spaghetti and cook 8-10 minutes until al dente, reserving 1/2 cup pasta water before draining.
  2. Step 2: Heat 3 tbsp olive oil in a skillet over medium heat; add minced garlic and cook 60 seconds until fragrant but not browned.
  3. Step 3: Stir in 28 ounces crushed tomatoes and simmer uncovered for 20 minutes until reduced by half and slightly thickened, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
  4. Step 4: While tomatoes simmer, blend 2 cups fresh basil, 1/4 cup pine nuts, 1/2 cup grated parmesan, 1 tsp lemon zest, and a pinch of salt in a food processor until finely chopped, adding 2 tbsp olive oil to emulsify.
  5. Step 5: Toss drained spaghetti with tomato sauce, adding reserved pasta water 1 tbsp at a time until glossy, then stir in 3/4 cup pesto until fully incorporated and coats pasta strands.
  6. Step 6: Adjust salt to taste, then serve immediately with extra parmesan and basil leaves for garnish.

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Frequently asked questions

How long does Serious Tomato-Basil Pasta with Fresh Pesto take to make?

Total time is about 55 minutes (20 min prep + 35 min cook). A small batch typically covers several meals in the week — store as the recipe directs.

How do I store leftover Serious Tomato-Basil Pasta with Fresh Pesto?

Transfer to an airtight jar and refrigerate for up to 5–7 days. Most sauces freeze well for up to 2 months — portion into small containers or freezer bags so you can thaw only what you need. Stir before serving; cream- or yogurt-based sauces may separate on standing.

Can I substitute ingredients in Serious Tomato-Basil Pasta with Fresh Pesto?

Yes — most ingredients in this recipe have flexible swaps. For oil, use any neutral high-smoke-point oil (avocado, grapeseed, refined coconut). For aromatics, dried herbs at ⅓ the volume of fresh work in a pinch. The full ingredient list is shoppable on Instacart so you can see substitutes in real time.

How do I scale Serious Tomato-Basil Pasta with Fresh Pesto for a different number of people?

The recipe is written for 4 servings. Multiply each ingredient by (your serving target / 4). Cook time stays roughly the same up to 2x; for 3-4x batches, switch from a skillet to a sheet pan or stockpot so the food isn't crowded — overcrowding steams instead of browns.

What goes well with Serious Tomato-Basil Pasta with Fresh Pesto?

Italian pasta like this pair well with a simple grain (rice, couscous, or crusty bread), a quick salad with acid (lemon vinaigrette, pickled onions), and a pan sauce or yogurt-based dip. Tap "Plan a meal with the AI" to get specific side suggestions.

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