This Classic Italian Pasta Al Pomodoro is all about simple goodness. With fresh tomatoes, garlic, and basil, it bursts with flavor! It’s a comforting meal you can whip up any night.
No fancy ingredients are needed—just good quality pasta and a little love! I love how it fills the kitchen with a wonderful aroma. Pair it with a sprinkle of cheese for extra yum! 🍝
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pasta: Spaghetti is classic, but feel free to experiment with other types like penne or fettuccine. Whole grain or gluten-free options also work well if you’re looking for a healthier choice!
Tomatoes: Fresh plum tomatoes bring a vibrant taste. If they’re not in season, canned San Marzano tomatoes are a great alternative. They have a lovely sweetness and are super convenient.
Olive Oil: Extra virgin olive oil enhances the flavor. If you’re low on it, you can use regular olive oil, but keep in mind it may lack some richness. Sunflower or avocado oil work too.
Garlic: Fresh garlic is best! If you’re in a pinch, garlic powder could substitute in a very small amount, but fresh is key for that sharp flavor.
Fresh Basil: This adds a fragrant touch. If you can’t find it, dried basil will work in a pinch, just remember a little goes a long way. I love using it fresh for that vibrant flavor.
How Do I Get a Rich & Flavorful Tomato Sauce?
The tomato sauce is the star here, so give it some love! First, start by heating the olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. When you add garlic and optional onion, sauté until they are soft but not brown to prevent bitterness.
- Add chopped tomatoes, salt, and pepper. If using, add sugar to soften the acidity of the tomatoes.
- Let the sauce simmer gently for 15-20 minutes. This helps the flavors meld and the sauce thicken. Stir it occasionally to avoid sticking.
- Finish with fresh basil at the end for a beautifully aromatic flavor.
These steps ensure the sauce is rich and full of flavor. Don’t rush this part—good sauce takes time!
Classic Italian Pasta Al Pomodoro
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Pasta:
- 400g (14 oz) spaghetti or your favorite pasta
For the Sauce:
- 800g (28 oz) ripe tomatoes (fresh plum tomatoes or good-quality canned San Marzano), chopped
- 3 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, thinly sliced
- 1 small onion, finely chopped (optional)
- A handful of fresh basil leaves, torn
- Salt, to taste
- Black pepper, to taste
- 1 tsp sugar (optional, to balance acidity of tomatoes)
- Freshly grated Parmesan or Pecorino Romano cheese, for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This Classic Pasta Al Pomodoro takes about 30 minutes to prepare and cook. You’ll spend around 10 minutes prepping and about 20 minutes cooking everything, which means a delicious meal in no time!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. This is important for flavor! Once boiling, cook the spaghetti according to the package instructions until it’s al dente. Don’t forget to save about 1 cup of the pasta cooking water before draining. You might need it later!
2. Prepare the Sauce:
While the pasta is cooking, grab a large skillet and heat the olive oil over medium heat. Once the oil is warm, add the sliced garlic and chopped onion (if using). Sauté them gently for about 2-3 minutes until they are fragrant and the onion is soft, but be careful not to let them brown.
3. Build the Flavor:
Now, it’s time to add the chopped tomatoes to the skillet. Sprinkle in some salt, black pepper, and sugar (if you choose to use it). Let the sauce simmer gently on medium-low heat for about 15-20 minutes. Stir it occasionally! You want it to thicken slightly and become deliciously aromatic.
4. Add Fresh Basil:
Once the sauce has thickened, stir in the torn basil leaves. Taste the sauce and adjust the seasoning if you need to add more salt or pepper. The fresh basil will really boost the flavors!
5. Combine Pasta and Sauce:
Now it’s time to combine! Add the drained pasta directly into your tomato sauce. Toss well to coat every strand of spaghetti. If the sauce looks too thick, don’t worry! Just add a bit of that reserved pasta cooking water until you achieve your desired consistency.
6. Serve Up Your Creation!
Plate the pasta and top it with freshly grated Parmesan or Pecorino Romano cheese. For a little extra color and flavor, add a few more basil leaves to garnish. Serve immediately while it’s hot, and enjoy your delicious meal!
This simple yet flavorful Pasta Al Pomodoro is a delightful classic that will surely become a favorite at your dinner table!
FAQ for Classic Italian Pasta Al Pomodoro
Can I Use Canned Tomatoes Instead of Fresh?
Absolutely! Good-quality canned San Marzano tomatoes are a fantastic substitute for fresh tomatoes. They’re picked at peak ripeness and have excellent flavor, making them perfect for your sauce.
What Other Herbs Can I Use Instead of Basil?
If you don’t have fresh basil on hand, you can use dried herbs instead. A pinch of dried oregano or thyme can work well. Just remember that dried herbs are more potent, so use them sparingly!
Can I Make This Recipe Vegan?
Yes! This recipe is naturally vegan as it doesn’t contain meat or dairy. Simply omit the cheese or use a plant-based cheese alternative for a delicious vegan dish.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm them in a skillet or microwave, adding a splash of water to prevent drying out. Enjoy your leftovers!
