Tomato Pasta

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Tomato Pasta is budget-friendly, easy to make, and full of fresh flavor. The sauce comes together quickly using simple ingredients like garlic, olive oil, and tomatoes. It’s naturally vegetarian, easy to customize, and ready in about 30 minutes. Whether served on its own or paired with protein, it’s a dependable and versatile meal.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

12 ounces spaghetti, penne, or fusilli
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 small onion, finely chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 can (14–15 ounces) crushed tomatoes or diced tomatoes
1 tablespoon tomato paste
1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
1/2 teaspoon dried basil
Salt, to taste
Black pepper, to taste
1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Fresh basil or parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Directions

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve about 1/2 cup of pasta water, then drain.
2. While the pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
3. Add the chopped onion and cook for 3–4 minutes until softened. Stir in the garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
4. Add the crushed tomatoes and tomato paste. Stir in oregano, basil, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes if using.
5. Let the sauce simmer for 10–15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until slightly thickened.
6. Add the drained pasta to the skillet and toss to coat evenly. If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of reserved pasta water to loosen it.
7. Stir in grated Parmesan cheese if desired and adjust seasoning to taste.
8. Garnish with fresh basil or parsley and serve immediately.

Servings and timing

Servings: 4 servings

Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 20 minutes
Total time: 30 minutes

Variations

Add sautéed mushrooms, zucchini, or spinach for extra vegetables.

Stir in grilled chicken, shrimp, or Italian sausage for added protein.

Add a splash of cream for a richer, creamy tomato sauce.

Use fresh tomatoes instead of canned when in season.

Drizzle with a little balsamic glaze for a touch of sweetness.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftover Tomato Pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat with a splash of water or broth to refresh the sauce.

Microwave individual portions in 30-second intervals, stirring between each, until heated through.

Tomato Pasta can be frozen for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating. The texture of the pasta may soften slightly after freezing.

FAQs

Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned?

Yes, peel and chop fresh tomatoes and simmer longer to allow excess moisture to cook off.

How can I reduce acidity in the sauce?

Add a small pinch of sugar or a splash of cream to balance the acidity.

What pasta works best?

Spaghetti, penne, fusilli, or rigatoni all work well because they hold the sauce nicely.

Can I make this recipe vegan?

Yes, simply omit the Parmesan cheese or use a plant-based alternative.

How do I thicken the sauce?

Let it simmer longer to reduce or add a little more tomato paste.

Can I prepare the sauce in advance?

Yes, the tomato sauce can be made ahead and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Is this good for meal prep?

Yes, it stores and reheats well, making it perfect for meal planning.

Can I add herbs?

Fresh basil, parsley, or thyme can enhance the flavor beautifully.

Why is my sauce watery?

Allow it to simmer longer so excess liquid evaporates.

What can I serve with Tomato Pasta?

A simple green salad and crusty bread make excellent side options.

Conclusion

Tomato Pasta is a classic, flavorful dish that proves simple ingredients can create incredible results. Quick to prepare and easy to customize, it’s a versatile recipe that fits into any meal plan. Whether served as a light dinner or paired with your favorite additions, this comforting pasta dish is always a reliable choice.

Tomato Pasta

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Tomato Pasta is a simple and comforting dish made with tender pasta tossed in a rich, flavorful tomato sauce. Prepared with pantry staples like garlic, olive oil, and tomatoes, this classic recipe is quick, budget-friendly, and perfect for weeknight dinners.

• Author: Laura
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings
• Category: Dinner
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: Italian
• Diet: Vegetarian

Ingredients

• 12 ounces spaghetti, penne, or fusilli
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 can (14–15 ounces) crushed or diced tomatoes
• 1 tablespoon tomato paste
• 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
• Salt, to taste
• Black pepper, to taste
• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
• Fresh basil or parsley, chopped (for garnish)

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Instructions

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup pasta water, then drain.
2. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
3. Add chopped onion and cook for 3–4 minutes until softened. Stir in garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
4. Add crushed tomatoes and tomato paste. Stir in oregano, basil, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes if using.
5. Simmer the sauce for 10–15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until slightly thickened.
6. Add drained pasta to the skillet and toss to coat evenly. Add a splash of reserved pasta water if needed to loosen the sauce.
7. Stir in Parmesan cheese if desired and adjust seasoning to taste.
8. Garnish with fresh basil or parsley and serve immediately.

Notes

• Simmer the sauce longer for a thicker consistency.
• Add sautéed vegetables like mushrooms, zucchini, or spinach for extra nutrition.
• For a vegan version, omit Parmesan or use a plant-based alternative.
• A small pinch of sugar can balance acidity if needed.
• Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
• Freeze for up to 2 months; thaw overnight before reheating.

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 420 kcal
• Sugar: 8 g
• Sodium: 580 mg
• Fat: 12 g
• Saturated Fat: 3 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 8 g
• Trans Fat: 0 g
• Carbohydrates: 65 g
• Fiber: 4 g
• Protein: 12 g
• Cholesterol: 10 mg