Easy Pasta Pomodoro Recipe for Ultimate Comfort

If you’re craving a comforting, vibrant, and easy-to-make dish, look no further than this Pasta Pomodoro recipe. Perfect for busy weeknights or casual dinners, this classic Italian pasta is packed with fresh ingredients like ripe tomatoes, fragrant garlic, and aromatic basil, all brought together in a simple homemade tomato sauce. Whether you’re an experienced cook or just starting out, this Pasta Pomodoro recipe is your go-to for a delightful meal with minimal effort.

Key Benefits

Quick to Prepare

When life gets busy, cooking dinner can feel like a hassle. Luckily, this Pasta Pomodoro recipe is designed to be quick and easy. From start to finish, you can have a delicious meal ready in under 30 minutes—perfect for hectic nights when you need something fast but flavorful. Plus, with only a handful of fresh ingredients, the preparation is minimal, and the process is simple!

Healthy and Fresh

One of the best parts about Pasta Pomodoro is how healthy and fresh it is. Fresh tomatoes form the base of the sauce, which is complemented by the garlic and olive oil—two staples of Italian cooking that not only enhance flavor but also provide health benefits. With fresh basil sprinkled on top and the option to skip or minimize cheese, this dish is light yet satisfying.

Customizable

Feel free to make this Pasta Pomodoro recipe your own! You can easily add extra veggies and proteins like grilled chicken or shrimp or even swap the pasta variety to match your preference. If you’re looking for a gluten-free option, try using rice pasta or gluten-free spaghetti. You can also adjust the seasoning to match your taste, whether you prefer it spicier or with more garlic.

Delicious and Comforting

There’s something undeniably comforting about a classic Italian pasta recipe. The combination of the fresh, tangy tomato sauce with the al dente pasta makes for an irresistible meal that feels like a warm hug on a plate. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or enjoying a quiet dinner, this dish is sure to please.

Ingredients For Pasta Pomodoro Recipe

Here’s everything you’ll need to create this delicious Pasta Pomodoro:

• 1 (16-ounce) package of angel hair pasta (or spaghetti for a traditional version)
• ¼ cup extra virgin olive oil
• ½ onion, chopped
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 cups Roma (plum) tomatoes, diced (or cherry tomatoes for a sweeter taste)
• 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
• 1 (10.75 ounce) can low-sodium chicken broth (or vegetable broth for a vegetarian version)
• Crushed red pepper flakes to taste
• Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh basil
• ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional, can be omitted for a vegan version)

Instructions For Pasta Pomodoro Recipe

Here’s how to make your Pasta Pomodoro step by step:

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Start by bringing a large pot of lightly salted water to a boil. Add your pasta and cook it according to the package directions—usually about 8 minutes for angel hair or until al dente. Drain the pasta, reserving a bit of the cooking water for later if needed to adjust the sauce consistency.

Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics

While your pasta is cooking, pour the olive oil into a large, deep skillet and heat over high. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, sautéing for about 2 minutes until they become fragrant and lightly browned.

Step 3: Make the Tomato Sauce

Once the onions and garlic are ready, reduce the heat to medium-high. Add the diced tomatoes, balsamic vinegar, and chicken (or vegetable) broth. Stir everything together and let it simmer for about 8 minutes until the tomatoes break down and the sauce thickens slightly.

Step 4: Combine and Simmer

Stir in a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes, freshly ground black pepper, and fresh basil to the sauce. Add your cooked pasta, tossing everything together so that the pasta is well-coated with the sauce. Let it simmer for another 5 minutes to allow the flavors to meld, then serve hot.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

Top your Pasta Pomodoro with freshly grated Parmesan cheese (if desired), a sprinkle of extra basil, and a drizzle of olive oil for extra flavor. Serve it with a side of garlic bread or a light salad for a complete meal.

Pro Tips and Variations

Add a Kick of Spice

If you like a little heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to your Pasta Pomodoro. This will give the dish a nice kick without overpowering the fresh tomato flavor.

Use Cherry Tomatoes for Sweetness

Swap out the Roma tomatoes for cherry tomatoes for a naturally sweeter sauce. They cook down beautifully and add a burst of sweetness that’s perfect for a lighter, brighter dish.

Go Protein-Packed

Feel free to add protein to make your Pasta Pomodoro a more substantial meal. Grilled chicken, shrimp, or even sautéed tofu make excellent additions that complement the fresh, tangy tomato sauce.

Make It Vegan-Friendly

To make this dish vegan, simply skip the Parmesan cheese or use a dairy-free alternative. The sauce is so flavorful that you won’t miss the cheese at all!

Serving Suggestions

Looking for the perfect sides to complement your Pasta Pomodoro? Here are a few ideas:

• Garlic Bread or Focaccia: Nothing beats dipping some freshly toasted garlic bread into the tomato sauce.
• Side Salad: A light, crunchy salad with fresh greens and a lemon vinaigrette pairs beautifully with this vibrant pasta.
• Roasted Vegetables: Roasted zucchini, bell peppers, or eggplant can add a hearty, savory touch to your meal.

Conclusion

This Pasta Pomodoro recipe proves that you don’t need to be an expert chef to create a delicious, satisfying Italian dish. With fresh ingredients, a simple cooking process, and lots of flavor, this dish is a must-try for pasta lovers and beginners alike. Whether you’re whipping it up for yourself or sharing it with loved ones, it’s guaranteed to bring joy to your table.

FAQs

This Pasta Pomodoro recipe is all about simplicity, fresh ingredients, and Italian flavors. Give it a try, and soon it’ll become a go-to meal for any occasion!