Spicy Tomato Basil Pasta

I first stumbled upon this spicy tomato and basil pasta on a breezy summer evening when fresh tomatoes were at their peak, and the aroma of basil filled my kitchen like a warm hug.

One unforgettable night, unexpected guests arrived and this quick pasta saved the day with its bold flavors and ease of preparation.

Ingredients

• Pasta: I reach for dried spaghetti or linguine because it holds the sauce beautifully and cooks just right every time
• Olive oil: Extra virgin anytime, its fruity richness builds the base of the sauce
• Garlic and chili: Fresh and sliced thin to infuse the oil without overpowering
• Canned diced tomatoes: I prefer well-ripened and juicy to get that natural tang
• Sugar and sea salt: To balance acidity and season perfectly
• Fresh basil: Torn at the end to preserve its fragrance and freshness
• Parmesan: Freshly grated for that final savory touch, optional yet delightful

Instructions

Get Everything Ready:

Boil salted water for the pasta while prepping your ingredients to keep everything moving smoothly

The Flavored Base:

Warm the olive oil gently, letting the garlic and chili release their scent slowly without burning, filling your kitchen with a gentle warmth

Simmer the Sauce:

Add tomatoes, sugar, salt, and pepper. Stir occasionally while it thickens into a rich, inviting sauce

Brighten with Basil:

Fold in half the basil leaves, letting their sweet aroma blossom inside the sauce

Combine Pasta and Sauce:

Drain pasta, add it to the skillet, and toss gently. Use reserved pasta water sparingly to keep sauce luscious and clinging perfectly

Finish It Off:

Stir in the Parmesan and remaining basil, then drizzle with extra virgin olive oil for a glossy, inviting finish

Serve Warm:

Plate immediately with optional extra Parmesan and a sprinkle of chili flakes for added kick

Pin it

This pasta became more than a meal one chilly evening when sharing it felt like wrapping everyone in warmth and comfort after a long day.

Keeping It Fresh

Fresh herbs are your friends here; always add basil last and only what you plan to eat to keep the vibrant green and fresh flavor intact.

When You're Missing Something

If you don't have fresh chili, red pepper flakes step in perfectly to add the heat without changing the character of the sauce.

Serving Ideas That Clicked

This pasta pairs wonderfully with a crisp green salad or crusty bread to soak up every last bit of sauce

• Don't forget to keep extra Parmesan handy for those last minute requests
• Oh wait one more thing - a drizzle of good quality olive oil before serving lifts the whole dish
• Serve with a chilled glass of white wine to brighten your evening

Pin it

Thanks for cooking along with me - enjoy this spicy pasta dish as you would a chat with a close friend, full of warmth and good flavor.

Recipe FAQs

→ What type of pasta works best?

Spaghetti or linguine hold the sauce well, but any long pasta can complement the vibrant flavors effectively.

→ Can I adjust the heat level?

Yes, modify the chili amount or substitute with milder red pepper flakes to suit your preference.

→ How to make the sauce thicker?

Simmer the tomato sauce uncovered for a few extra minutes to reduce excess liquid and intensify flavor.

→ Is fresh basil essential?

Fresh basil adds a bright herbal note, but dried basil can be used in a pinch though flavor will be less vibrant.

→ What can I use instead of Parmesan?

For a vegan or dairy-free option, try nutritional yeast or plant-based cheese alternatives for a similar umami taste.