Craving a delicious and easy pasta dish that comes together in a flash? Look no further than this no-cook tomato basil pasta! It’s the perfect solution for busy weeknights when you want a satisfying meal without spending hours in the kitchen.
This recipe is all about simplicity and fresh flavors. With just 20 minutes of prep and a quick 10-minute cook time, you can have this delightful dish on the table in under 30 minutes, making it ideal for a midweek family dinner or a small, impromptu gathering.
The magic lies in the no-cook tomato sauce. It’s bursting with flavor and incredibly easy to prepare. Simply crush ripe heirloom tomatoes, blend in a few simple ingredients, and let it sit for 15 minutes to develop its rich, delicious character. While the sauce is resting, cook your favorite long pasta – spaghetti, linguini, or fettuccine – until al dente.
The final step is where the magic happens: tossing the cooked pasta with the fresh tomato sauce. The sauce clings to the pasta, creating a symphony of flavors. Finish it off with a generous sprinkle of Parmesan cheese and a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil for a touch of richness.
Here’s a breakdown of the simple ingredients you’ll need:
*
Ripe heirloom tomatoes:
The star of the show! Look for tomatoes that are ripe and bursting with flavor.*
Garlic:
A touch of aromatic garlic enhances the sauce’s depth.*
Parmesan cheese:
Adds a salty, nutty flavor that complements the tomatoes perfectly.*
Unsalted butter:
Adds richness and creaminess to the sauce.*
Extra virgin olive oil:
A dash of olive oil provides a subtle fruity flavor and adds a luxurious touch.*
Lemon zest and juice:
Brighten the sauce with citrusy notes.*
Balsamic vinegar:
Adds a tangy depth of flavor.*
Honey:
A touch of sweetness balances the acidity of the tomatoes.*
Crushed red pepper flakes:
A touch of heat for a kick of flavor.*
Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper:
Season to your taste.*
Long pasta:
Choose your favorite, such as spaghetti, linguini, or fettuccine.*
Basil leaves:
Fresh basil adds a vibrant, herbaceous flavor.Here’s how to make this delightful pasta dish:
1.
Prepare the tomato sauce:
Gently press each tomato half to expel the watery seeds and discard them. Chop the remaining tomato flesh into 1-inch chunks and transfer them to a large bowl. Use a wooden spoon, potato masher, or your hands to crush the tomatoes until they are about the size of a nickel. Add the garlic, Parmesan cheese, butter, olive oil, lemon zest and juice, balsamic vinegar, honey, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper. Stir everything together until well combined. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and let it sit at room temperature for 15 minutes.2.
Cook the pasta:
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to the package directions until it reaches an al dente texture.3.
Combine the pasta and sauce:
Using tongs or a spider, transfer the cooked pasta directly into the bowl with the tomato mixture, tossing as you go. It’s fine if a bit of pasta water comes along; it will help dissolve the butter and cheese. Taste the pasta and adjust the seasoning with additional salt and pepper if necessary.4.
Add the basil:
Gently fold in the torn basil leaves.5.
Serve:
Serve the pasta in bowls, spooning any remaining sauce over the top. Sprinkle with additional Parmesan cheese and drizzle with extra virgin olive oil. Serve immediately.Pro Tip:
You can prepare the tomato sauce up to eight hours in advance. Cover it and store it in the refrigerator, then let it sit at room temperature for one hour before serving.Enjoy this simple and satisfying pasta dish that’s sure to please even the pickiest eaters!
