Tomato and Garlic Pasta

Craving something cozy yet fresh? This tomato and garlic pasta is a quick, vibrant dinner made with juicy tomatoes, fragrant garlic, and angel hair pasta. Ready in just 35 minutes, it’s light, satisfying, and full of flavor. You’ll love the fresh basil aroma, the tender noodles, and the simple sauce that clings perfectly to every bite. With about 270 calories per serving, it’s a healthy, homey meal that feels special without any fuss. Whether you’re cooking for family or just want a fast weeknight dinner, this pasta delivers comfort in every forkful.

Why You’ll Love This Tomato and Garlic Pasta

Fresh, Simple Ingredients

This recipe celebrates freshness. Ripe tomatoes, garlic, basil, and olive oil blend together beautifully. No cream, no heaviness—just pure, bright flavor that feels homemade every time.

Quick Weeknight-Friendly Timing

Dinner’s ready in around 35 minutes. While the pasta boils, you can easily simmer the sauce. It’s the perfect balance of fast and flavorful, ideal for busy nights.

Light, Garlicky Flavor Profile

Garlic gives the sauce a warm kick, while tomatoes add a hint of sweetness. The basil ties it together with a soft herbal note that feels both refreshing and savory.

Perfect Texture from Tender Pasta and Chunky Tomato Sauce

Angel hair pasta soaks up the sauce beautifully. Each strand stays tender but firm, while chunks of tomato give every bite texture and freshness.

What You’ll Need

Ingredient Overview

You’ll use fresh tomatoes for natural sweetness, garlic for flavor depth, and tomato paste for a rich base. Olive oil keeps everything silky, basil adds a fragrant finish, and Parmesan brings a salty bite. Salt and pepper balance the flavors, and the angel hair pasta ties it all together.

Tools and Equipment

You’ll need a medium pot for boiling pasta, a skillet for the sauce, a sharp knife for peeling and chopping tomatoes, and a wooden spoon for stirring. A colander helps drain the pasta perfectly.

Step-by-Step: How to Make Tomato and Garlic Pasta

Prep the Tomatoes

Start by boiling the tomatoes briefly until their skins loosen. Cool them in cold water, then peel and chop. This quick step keeps your sauce fresh and smooth.

Cook the Pasta

Boil salted water and cook the angel hair pasta for about 4–5 minutes. Keep it slightly firm. Drain, toss with olive oil, and set aside while you make the sauce.

Build the Garlic Tomato Sauce

Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Sauté minced garlic until fragrant and translucent. Stir in tomato paste for richness, then add the chopped tomatoes. Season with salt and pepper. Let it simmer gently so the flavors blend.

Combine Pasta and Sauce

Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and gently mix until coated with sauce. Sprinkle in chopped basil right before removing from heat. Let it sit uncovered over low heat for about 10 minutes to soak in the flavor.

Serve and Garnish

Serve warm, topped with grated Parmesan and a few basil leaves. Each plate has about 270 calories, 9g protein, and just 6g of fat—light yet filling.

Tips for the Best Results

Choosing and Peeling Tomatoes

Use ripe, firm tomatoes for the best flavor. Boil just long enough to loosen skins, then cool and peel easily.

How to Prevent Overcooked Pasta

Set a timer and taste a strand before draining. Angel hair cooks fast, so remove it just before it’s fully soft.

Getting the Right Sauce Consistency

If the sauce feels thick, add a spoonful of pasta water. If it’s too thin, simmer a bit longer until it clings nicely to the noodles.

Variations and Add-Ins

Mushroom and Garlic Variation

Add sliced mushrooms to the garlic step for an earthy twist. They soak up the sauce and add a meaty texture.

Zucchini Ribbon Add-In

Toss in thin zucchini ribbons for color and a fresh bite. They cook fast and complement the tomato base perfectly.

Extra-Herb or Spicy Options

Try oregano or red pepper flakes for added warmth. Each small change brings a new layer of flavor to this easy dish.

Storage and Reheating Guide

Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to three days. When reheating, warm slowly on low heat with a drizzle of olive oil or a splash of water to keep the pasta soft and the sauce moist. Avoid the microwave if you can—gentle reheating keeps the flavors intact.

Frequently Asked Questions

Other Recipes You May Enjoy

• creamy garlic pasta in 20 minutes
• garlic chicken noodles for a quick dinner
• cowboy butter chicken linguine
• sausage pasta soup creamy one pot
• fried burrata with arrabbiata sauce
• creamy sun-dried tomato vegan pasta

Conclusion

This tomato and garlic pasta is a true weeknight hero. It’s fresh, simple, and always hits the spot. Each bite offers tender noodles, bright tomato flavor, and a hint of basil. Try the variations to keep it exciting, and enjoy an easy, wholesome dinner anytime. For more quick dinner ideas, check out my Pinterest at Ellie’s Microwave Recipes.