Why Should You Try This Recipe for Tomato Basil Pasta?

1. This recipe is perfect for those with busy schedules, delivering quick and delicious results while presenting a beautiful plate.
2. Pasta is a pantry staple that lasts a long time, allowing you to use whatever type you have on hand.
3. This is a lighter meal option that’s enjoyable year-round, particularly during the warmer months.
4. The combinations and variations you can create are endless, ensuring you’ll have a different dish each time you make it.
5. The pairing of tomato and basil creates a harmonious flavor profile that’s perfect for meal planning.

Ingredients

• 1 lb spaghetti (or your preferred pasta), cooked al dente and drained, reserving two cups of hot pasta water
• 2 tablespoons salted butter
• 12 oz grape tomatoes, halved
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil
• 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
• 2 tablespoons finely minced fresh garlic
• 2 tablespoons aged balsamic vinegar
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmigiano Reggiano and Pecorino Romano cheese
• Optional: mozzarella balls or cubes, and/or 2 cups marinara sauce for a saucier dish
• Cooked meat options (1 cup): boneless chicken, Italian sliced sausage, crispy bacon, mini meatballs, or any leftover meats from previous meals.

Instructions

1. Start by cooking your pasta based on the package instructions until it reaches al dente perfection.
2. Slice the grape tomatoes in half and place them in a medium-sized bowl.
3. Add the fresh basil, olive oil, minced garlic, and balsamic vinegar to the bowl, then season with salt and pepper to taste. Mix everything gently until well combined.
4. Transfer the drained pasta into a large serving bowl, adding some of the reserved hot pasta water to keep it moist.
5. Stir in the butter and cheese, using kitchen tongs to toss everything together until well-coated. Incorporate the tomato mixture into the creamy pasta blend.
6. Serve immediately, topped with extra freshly grated Parmigiano Reggiano if desired.

Additions and Suggestions for Tomato Basil Pasta

Feel free to mix in any of the following ingredients to take this dish to the next level:

• Sautéed mushrooms
• Cooked mini meatballs
• Sautéed broccoli rabe
• Canned and heated artichoke hearts
• Fresh mozzarella balls or cubes
• Feta cheese with Kalamata olives
• Steamed broccoli florets
• Cooked escarole
• Bell peppers or hot peppers
• Raw arugula
• Smoked salmon
• Cooked pork tenderloin
• Cooked steak
• Cooked shrimp
• Any leftover roasted chicken or rotisserie chicken
• Chopped deli meats or pepperoni slices
• Store-bought sauces like alfredo, marinara, or meat sauce for a more substantial pasta dish.

Pasta Suggestions

This recipe is incredibly flexible regarding pasta types. Consider trying:

• Rigatoni
• Bowties
• Mostaccioli
• Fusilli
• Seashell pasta
• Spaghetti
• Bucatini

Tips for Cooking Tomato Basil Pasta

• Cook your chosen pasta al dente for the best texture.
• Experiment with jarred sauces to give your pasta a different flair.
• For a 100% olive oil dish, omit the butter entirely.
• Opt for grape or cherry tomatoes to maximize freshness and flavor.
• Substitute raw or cooked vegetables for tomatoes depending on your preference.
• Incorporate any cooked meats you like, such as chicken, steak, or bacon.
• Feel free to add cubed cheeses for variety.
• Add a splash of heat with red pepper flakes as a finishing touch.

Pin for Later

Pasta Lovers

A quick meal tip: Cook your pasta ahead of time and toss it in butter and cheese. It can be reused for up to four days. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, just reheat with any leftover ingredients for a new meal!

This recipe is especially wonderful during warmer weather, providing a light and refreshing dish. You can customize it to be vegetarian or add meats from your leftovers, making it an excellent choice for re-purposing food creatively!