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Looking for a simple yet delicious meal? This Simple Spaghetti with Fresh Tomato Sauce and Garlic is your go-to weeknight dinner! Bursting with flavor from ripe tomatoes and fresh basil, this dish is not only easy to make but also incredibly satisfying. With just a few ingredients, you’ll have a bowl of comfort food that’s sure to please everyone at the table.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This spaghetti dish is quick to prepare, making it perfect for busy nights. The fresh tomato sauce brings a vibrant flavor that’s hard to resist, while garlic adds a delightful aroma. Plus, it’s an excellent way to use seasonal tomatoes!
- Quick and easy to prepare
- Fresh ingredients for vibrant flavors
- Perfect for weeknight dinners
- Customizable with your favorite toppings
- Vegetarian-friendly
Ingredients
- 8 ounces spaghetti
- 2 cups ripe tomatoes, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (for serving)
How to Make Spaghetti with Tomato Sauce and Garlic
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the spaghetti and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water, then drain the spaghetti and set aside.
- In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute, until fragrant but not browned.
- Add the diced tomatoes to the skillet. Stir in the red pepper flakes (if using), and season with salt and pepper. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, until the tomatoes soften and release their juices.
- Combine the drained spaghetti with the tomato sauce in the skillet. Toss to coat, adding reserved pasta water as needed to reach desired consistency.
- Remove from heat and stir in the chopped basil. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary.
- Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese.
Tips for the Best Results
- Use ripe, in-season tomatoes for the best flavor.
- Don’t skip the reserved pasta water; it helps to create a silky sauce.
- For a creamier sauce, add a splash of heavy cream or a dollop of ricotta cheese.
Easy Variations
- Add sautéed vegetables such as bell peppers or zucchini for extra nutrition.
- Incorporate protein by adding cooked shrimp or grilled chicken strips.
- Swap the basil for fresh parsley or oregano for a different flavor profile.
What to Serve With It
- Garlic bread for a crunchy side
- A simple green salad with vinaigrette
- Roasted vegetables for a hearty addition
- A glass of red wine to complement the dish
Storage and Reheating
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Leftover spaghetti can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water or olive oil to loosen the sauce.
Recipe Card
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
Yield/Servings: 2 servings
Ingredients:
- 8 ounces spaghetti
- 2 cups ripe tomatoes, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (for serving)
Instructions:
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the spaghetti and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water, then drain the spaghetti and set aside.
- In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute, until fragrant but not browned.
- Add the diced tomatoes to the skillet. Stir in the red pepper flakes (if using), and season with salt and pepper. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, until the tomatoes soften and release their juices.
- Combine the drained spaghetti with the tomato sauce in the skillet. Toss to coat, adding reserved pasta water as needed to reach desired consistency.
- Remove from heat and stir in the chopped basil. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary.
- Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese.
Notes: Use ripe, in-season tomatoes for the best flavor. Don’t skip the reserved pasta water; it helps to create a silky sauce.
