Pasta Pomodoro is a classic Italian dish celebrated for its simplicity, freshness, and vibrant flavor. Made with ripe tomatoes, garlic, olive oil, and fresh basil, this timeless recipe highlights the beauty of high-quality ingredients prepared with care. Light yet deeply satisfying, Pasta Pomodoro is a perfect example of how Italian cooking transforms everyday pantry staples into something truly special.
Pasta Pomodoro:
Ideal for quick lunches or elegant dinners, Pasta comes together in minutes and delivers bright, clean flavors in every bite. Whether enjoyed as a comforting weeknight meal or served to guests, this dish proves that simple food can be extraordinarily delicious.
History:
The word “pomodoro” means tomato in Italian, and tomato-based pasta sauces became popular in Italy after tomatoes were introduced from the Americas in the 16th century. Pasta Pomodoro developed as a straightforward, everyday dish, especially in southern Italy, where tomatoes grow abundantly. Unlike long-simmered sauces, Pomodoro sauce is cooked briefly to preserve the freshness and natural sweetness of the tomatoes, making it a cornerstone of traditional Italian home cooking.
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Pasta Pomodoro
Ingredients
- 12 oz pasta (spaghetti or linguine)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, thinly sliced
- 1 can (14 oz) crushed tomatoes or fresh tomatoes, chopped
- Salt, to taste
- Black pepper, to taste
- Red pepper flakes (optional)
- Fresh basil leaves, torn
- Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions
- Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve ½ cup pasta water, then drain.
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add garlic and sauté briefly until fragrant.
- Add tomatoes, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes if using. Simmer for 10–12 minutes.
- Stir in fresh basil.
- Add cooked pasta to the sauce and toss to combine, adding pasta water as needed.
- Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan if desired.
Notes
- Use ripe, high-quality tomatoes for best flavour.
- Do not overcook the sauce to maintain freshness.
- Garlic should not brown.
- Pasta water helps bind the sauce.
- Best enjoyed immediately.
Tips for Pasta Pomodoro:
- Use San Marzano tomatoes for authentic taste.
- Add a knob of butter for extra richness.
- Finish with olive oil for aroma.
- Pair with a simple green salad.
- Use fresh basil, not dried.
FAQs for Pasta:
Q: Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned?
A: Yes, ripe fresh tomatoes work beautifully.
Q: Is Pasta vegetarian?
A: Yes, it’s naturally vegetarian.
Q: What pasta works best?
A: Spaghetti or linguine are traditional choices.
Q: Can I make it ahead?
A: The sauce can be made ahead, but pasta is best fresh.
Q: Is cheese traditional in Pomodoro?
A: Cheese is optional and varies by region.
Conclusion:
Pasta is a shining example of Italian cuisine’s love for simplicity and freshness. With just a handful of ingredients and minimal cooking time, this dish delivers bold, clean flavors that never go out of style. Easy, comforting, and endlessly satisfying, Pasta Pomodoro is a recipe every home cook should master.