Delicious Pasta Pomodoro: A Flavorful Twist for Your Table

Why Make This Recipe

Pasta Pomodoro is a classic Italian dish that brings the essence of Italy to your table. It’s simple yet incredibly satisfying. The sweet, juicy cherry tomatoes combined with the rich flavor of whole peeled tomatoes create a fresh and vibrant sauce that clings to every strand of pasta. This dish is not just about filling your stomach; it’s about enjoying a meal that is bursting with flavor and comfort. Many people appreciate how quickly Pasta Pomodoro can be prepared, making it ideal for busy weeknights or casual gatherings with friends and family. The ingredients are easy to find, and the cooking process is straightforward, allowing even novice cooks to shine in the kitchen. Not to mention, the meal is an excellent way to incorporate more vegetables into your diet, especially with the addition of fresh spinach and aromatic basil.

How to Make Delicious Pasta Pomodoro

Making Pasta Pomodoro is easier than you might think! Follow the steps below to create this delightful dish that’s perfect for any occasion.

Ingredients

• 12 ounces spaghetti (Any pasta can be used.)
• 3 quarts water (For boiling.)
• 1.5 tablespoons sea salt (Enhances flavor of pasta.)
• 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil (Use high quality.)
• 2 cloves garlic, grated (For flavor.)
• 0.25 teaspoon red pepper flakes (Adjust to taste.)
• 10 ounces cherry tomatoes, halved (For freshness.)
• 28 ounces whole peeled tomatoes (Main ingredient for sauce.)
• 1 teaspoon salt (Balancing flavor.)
• 0.125 teaspoon black pepper (Enhances flavor.)
• 15 leaves basil (Fresh, for aroma.)
• 1 cup fresh mozzarella balls (Adds creaminess.)
• 2 cups baby spinach (Wilts into dish.)

Directions

Preparation

1. Boil the Water: Start by filling a large pot with 3 quarts of water. Place it on the stove over high heat and bring it to a boil. Once boiling, add 1.5 tablespoons of sea salt to the water. This step is crucial as it not only seasons your pasta but also enhances its flavor.

2. Cook the Pasta: Once the water is seasoned and at a rolling boil, add 12 ounces of spaghetti (or your chosen pasta) to the pot. Cook according to the package instructions, usually around 8-10 minutes, until al dente. Make sure to stir occasionally to prevent sticking.

3. Prepare the Sauce: While the pasta cooks, you can start on the sauce. Heat 3 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once hot, add in the 2 cloves of grated garlic and sauté for about 1-2 minutes until fragrant, being careful not to let it burn.

4. Add the Red Pepper Flakes: If you like a little heat, sprinkle in the 0.25 teaspoon of red pepper flakes. Adjust this to your taste, adding more if you prefer a spicier dish.

5. Incorporate the Tomatoes: Next, toss in the 10 ounces of halved cherry tomatoes into the skillet. Allow them to cook for about 5 minutes, stirring often. You want them to soften and release their juices, mixing with the garlic and olive oil.

6. Mix in Whole Peeled Tomatoes: After the cherry tomatoes have cooked down, add in the 28 ounces of whole peeled tomatoes along with 1 teaspoon of salt and 0.125 teaspoon of black pepper. Use a spoon or spatula to break up the tomatoes a bit to create a nice saucy texture. Let the mixture simmer on low for about 10-15 minutes until the flavors meld together.

7. Add Fresh Ingredients: After the sauce has simmered, fold in the 2 cups of baby spinach until wilted, which should take just a couple of minutes. You can also toss in the 15 leaves of fresh basil at this stage.

8. Combine with Pasta: When the pasta is cooked to your liking, drain it but reserve about half a cup of the pasta water. Add the drained spaghetti to the sauce, mixing everything together. If the sauce appears too thick, add in a little bit of the reserved pasta water until you reach your desired consistency.

9. Finish with Mozzarella: Finally, gently fold in the 1 cup of fresh mozzarella balls, allowing them to melt slightly in the warm pasta.

How to Serve Delicious Pasta Pomodoro

Pasta Pomodoro shines best when served fresh. To present this delightful dish, twirl a serving of pasta onto each plate. You can dress it with an extra drizzle of high-quality olive oil and some freshly cracked black pepper for added flavor. Garnish with a few reserved basil leaves to add a pop of color. Pair it with a simple green salad or some crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce. For those who enjoy cheese, feel free to add freshly grated Parmesan on top. This dish is a crowd-pleaser and is sure to impress anyone at your dinner table.

How to Store Delicious Pasta Pomodoro

If you happen to have any leftovers, storing your Pasta Pomodoro is easy. Let it cool down to room temperature before transferring it into an airtight container. You can store the pasta in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply reheat on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of water or extra olive oil if needed to loosen the sauce.

If you want to freeze it, you can do so for up to 2 months. Simply package the cooled pasta in a freezer-safe container. When you want to eat it, defrost in the refrigerator overnight and reheat as mentioned above.

Tips to Make Delicious Pasta Pomodoro

1. Choose Quality Ingredients: When making simple dishes like Pasta Pomodoro, the quality of the ingredients matters. Choose a high-quality extra virgin olive oil and ripe, in-season tomatoes for the best flavor.

2. Don’t Overcook the Pasta: Follow package instructions closely to avoid mushy pasta. Undercook it slightly since it will continue to cook when mixed with the hot sauce.

3. Customize Your Spiciness: Adjust the amount of red pepper flakes based on your preference. You can also omit them entirely for a milder dish.

4. Fresh Herbs are Key: Use fresh basil for the best aroma and flavor. If you must use dried herbs, remember that you’ll need much less (about 1 teaspoon of dried basil).

5. Experiment: Feel free to customize the recipe. You can add other ingredients like olives, capers, or even cooked protein like chicken or shrimp for a heartier meal.

Variation

There are many ways to give Pasta Pomodoro a twist. For a richer flavor, consider adding a splash of red wine to the sauce during the cooking process. If you want to enhance its nutritional value, you can add more vegetables, such as zucchini or bell peppers. If you’re vegan or prefer to skip dairy, you could substitute the mozzarella with a vegan cheese alternative or simply leave it out for a lighter version.

Another popular variation includes adding nuts, such as pine nuts, for added texture and flavor. You can also create a lemon-basil version by adding a splash of lemon juice and zest right before serving for a refreshing touch.

FAQs

1. Can I use different types of pasta instead of spaghetti?
Yes, you can use any type of pasta you like! Penne, fusilli, or even gluten-free pasta are great alternatives that will work well with the sauce.

2. How do I know if my pasta is done?
The best way to test is to taste it. Pasta should be al dente, meaning it should be firm to the bite but not hard. Follow the cooking time on the packaging and start checking a minute or two before the suggested time.

3. Can I make Pasta Pomodoro ahead of time?
Yes, you can make the sauce ahead of time. However, it’s best to cook the pasta and combine it just before serving to keep everything fresh and prevent the pasta from becoming soggy.

4. How can I add more protein to the dish?
You can add cooked chicken, shrimp, or even chickpeas for a vegetarian option. Toss them in once the sauce is ready to heat through.

5. What if I don’t have fresh tomatoes?
If fresh tomatoes are not available, you may use canned diced tomatoes instead. The flavor may vary slightly, but it will still yield a delicious sauce.

Pasta Pomodoro is a delightful dish that’s perfect for all occasions. It’s easy, flavorful, and simply wonderful to share with friends and family. Enjoy every bite!

Pasta Pomodoro

Print Recipe

A classic Italian dish featuring spaghetti and a vibrant sauce made with fresh tomatoes, spinach, and basil.

• Author: hbibamine1980
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: Italian
• Diet: Vegetarian

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 12 ounces spaghetti
• 3 quarts water
• 1.5 tablespoons sea salt
• 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
• 2 cloves garlic, grated
• 0.25 teaspoon red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
• 10 ounces cherry tomatoes, halved
• 28 ounces whole peeled tomatoes
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 0.125 teaspoon black pepper
• 15 leaves basil
• 1 cup fresh mozzarella balls
• 2 cups baby spinach

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

Instructions

1. Boil the Water: Fill a large pot with 3 quarts of water and bring it to a boil. Add 1.5 tablespoons of sea salt.
2. Cook the Pasta: Add 12 ounces of spaghetti to the boiling water and cook according to package instructions (8-10 minutes) until al dente.
3. Prepare the Sauce: Heat 3 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add 2 cloves of grated garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes.
4. Add the Red Pepper Flakes: Sprinkle in 0.25 teaspoon of red pepper flakes.
5. Incorporate the Tomatoes: Add 10 ounces of halved cherry tomatoes and cook for about 5 minutes.
6. Mix in Whole Peeled Tomatoes: Add 28 ounces of whole peeled tomatoes, 1 teaspoon salt, and 0.125 teaspoon black pepper. Simmer for 10-15 minutes.
7. Add Fresh Ingredients: Fold in 2 cups of baby spinach and 15 leaves of basil.
8. Combine with Pasta: Drain the spaghetti, reserving half a cup of pasta water. Add pasta to the sauce, mixing well.
9. Finish with Mozzarella: Gently fold in 1 cup of fresh mozzarella balls.

Notes

Serve fresh with a drizzle of olive oil and a sprinkle of black pepper. Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 350
• Sugar: 5g
• Sodium: 400mg
• Fat: 12g
• Saturated Fat: 4g
• Unsaturated Fat: 6g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 45g
• Fiber: 3g
• Protein: 15g
• Cholesterol: 30mg