Tomato Pasta: Easy 20-Minute Weeknight Dinner 🍝🍅✨
1. Introduction
Looking for a quick, delicious, and satisfying dinner that comes together in just 20 minutes? Our easy tomato pasta recipe is the perfect solution for busy weeknights. This simple tomato pasta dish combines ripe tomatoes, garlic, and fresh herbs to create a flavorful meal that everyone will love. Whether you’re a busy parent, a student, or just craving a comforting plate of pasta, this easy tomato pasta recipe delivers on taste and convenience. Let’s dive into how to make this effortless and tasty dish that’s ideal for a 20 minute weeknight dinner.
2. Ingredients for a Simple Tomato Pasta
- 400g (14 oz) of spaghetti or your favorite pasta
- 2 cups of ripe cherry or roma tomatoes, chopped
- 3 cloves of garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons of olive oil
- Fresh basil leaves, chopped
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- Optional: red chili flakes for a spicy kick
- Grated Parmesan cheese for serving
3. Step-by-Step Instructions for the Best Easy Tomato Pasta
3.1. Cook the Pasta
Begin by boiling a large pot of salted water. Cook the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving a cup of pasta water for later.
3.2. Prepare the Tomato Sauce
While the pasta cooks, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Add the chopped tomatoes and cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the tomatoes break down and form a sauce.
3.3. Combine Pasta and Sauce
Add the cooked pasta directly into the skillet with the tomato sauce. Toss to coat evenly, adding a splash of reserved pasta water if the sauce needs to loosen. Stir in the chopped fresh basil, and season with salt, pepper, and red chili flakes if desired for added spice.
3.4. Serve with Fresh Herbs and Cheese
Transfer the simple tomato pasta to plates. Top with grated Parmesan cheese and extra basil leaves for a burst of flavor. For more inspiration, check out our dessert ideas to complete your Italian-inspired meal.
4. Tips for Making the Perfect Easy Tomato Pasta
- Use ripe, high-quality tomatoes for the best flavor.
- Reserve pasta water to adjust the sauce’s consistency.
- For added protein, toss in cooked chicken or shrimp.
- Experiment with herbs such as oregano or thyme for different flavor profiles.
5. Storage and Leftovers
This easy tomato pasta stores well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, add a splash of water or olive oil to loosen the sauce and warm gently. Avoid freezing, as the texture of fresh tomatoes may change upon thawing.
6. Serving Suggestions for the Best Weeknight Dinner
Serve your freshly made simple tomato pasta with a side of Greek potato salad or some garlic bread for a hearty meal. Pair with a crisp white wine or sparkling water with lemon for a refreshing touch. Or, for a complete Mediterranean-inspired dinner, explore our chicken shawarma options.
7. FAQs About Easy Tomato Pasta
What makes this easy tomato pasta recipe so quick to prepare?
This dish is designed for speed, utilizing fresh, ripe tomatoes, minimal ingredients, and quick-cooking pasta. It takes advantage of the natural sweetness and acidity of tomatoes cooked in a short time, making it perfect for a 20 minute weeknight dinner.
Can I customize this simple tomato pasta?
Absolutely! Feel free to add proteins like grilled chicken, shrimp, or sausage. You can also incorporate vegetables such as spinach, zucchini, or bell peppers for added nutrition and flavor.
What pasta shape is best for this easy tomato pasta recipe?
Spaghetti, penne, or fusilli work well because they hold the sauce beautifully. Choose your favorite pasta shape for a personalized touch.
8. Final Thoughts on the Best 20-Minute Weeknight Dinner
This easy tomato pasta recipe is a testament to how simple ingredients can create extraordinary flavor in a flash. Perfect for busy weeknights, it’s a timeless dish that’s delicious, satisfying, and easy to make. Remember, using fresh tomatoes and herbs takes this dish to the next level, making it a staple in your weeknight dinner rotation. For more quick and tasty recipes, explore our collection of creamy tortellini or healthy pasta dishes.
9. Conclusion
Enjoy your homemade simple tomato pasta as a quick and nutritious dinner option that impresses with minimal effort. This easy tomato pasta recipe is perfect for busy nights when flavor and speed are your priorities. Try it today and discover how easy and delicious a 20 minute weeknight dinner can be!
Print
Tomato Pasta: Easy 20-Minute Weeknight Dinner
Discover the easiest way to enjoy a flavorful and satisfying Tomato Pasta in just 20 minutes! This quick weeknight dinner combines ripe tomatoes, garlic, fresh herbs, and simple ingredients to create a delicious meal perfect for busy evenings. Made with fresh produce and minimal effort, this Tomato Pasta recipe is a family favorite for its speed and taste. Perfect for anyone looking for a hearty, vegetarian-friendly dish that comes together effortlessly. Enjoy a comforting bowl of homemade pasta topped with Parmesan cheese and fresh basil, sure to impress everyone at your dinner table.
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 400g (14 oz) of spaghetti or your favorite pasta
- 2 cups of ripe cherry or roma tomatoes, chopped
- 3 cloves of garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons of olive oil
- Fresh basil leaves, chopped
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- Optional: red chili flakes for a spicy kick
- Grated Parmesan cheese for serving
Instructions
- Begin by boiling a large pot of salted water. Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving a cup of pasta water.
- While the pasta cooks, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Add the chopped tomatoes and cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they break down into a sauce.
- Add the cooked pasta into the skillet with the tomato sauce. Toss to coat evenly, adding a splash of reserved pasta water if needed to loosen the sauce. Stir in chopped basil, and season with salt, pepper, and chili flakes if desired.
- Transfer the pasta to plates. Top with grated Parmesan cheese and extra basil leaves for flavor. Serve immediately for best results.
Notes
- Use ripe, high-quality tomatoes for the best flavor.
- Reserve pasta water to adjust the sauce’s consistency.
- For added protein, incorporate cooked chicken or shrimp.
- Experiment with herbs such as oregano or thyme for different flavor profiles.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
- Diet: Vegetarian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl (about 1.5 cups)
- Calories: 450 kcal Kcal
- Sugar: 8g
- Sodium: 300mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 70g
- Fiber: 5g
- Protein: 14g
- Cholesterol: 10mg
