Smashed Tomato Pasta is a beautifully simple dish that lets the natural sweetness of ripe tomatoes shine through. This recipe involves gently smashing cherry or grape tomatoes to create a sauce that’s both fresh and flavorful, combined with garlic, olive oil, and fresh basil. It’s a perfect summer dish that’s quick, easy, and utterly delicious.
Ingredients:
- 12 ounces pasta (spaghetti, linguine, or your choice)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil, plus more for drizzling
- 4 cups cherry or grape tomatoes
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1/2 cup fresh basil leaves, torn
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus more for serving
- Fresh basil leaves for garnish
Directions:
- Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta cooking water, then drain the pasta and set aside.
- Smash the Tomatoes: While the pasta is cooking, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the cherry tomatoes and a pinch of salt. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the tomatoes start to blister and soften, about 5-7 minutes. Use a wooden spoon or spatula to gently press down on the tomatoes, smashing them to release their juices.
- Add Garlic and Seasonings: Add the minced garlic, red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and pepper to the skillet with the tomatoes. Cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, until the garlic is fragrant but not browned.
- Combine Pasta and Tomato Mixture: Add the cooked pasta to the skillet with the smashed tomatoes. Toss well to combine, adding a bit of the reserved pasta water if needed to create a light sauce that coats the pasta evenly.
- Finish the Dish: Remove the skillet from the heat. Stir in the torn basil leaves and grated Parmesan cheese. Toss until everything is well combined and the cheese has melted into the sauce.
- Serve: Divide the pasta among plates. Drizzle with a little more olive oil and sprinkle with additional Parmesan cheese and fresh basil leaves for garnish.
Nutrition Facts (per serving):
- Calories: 400
- Fat: 12g
- Carbohydrates: 60g
- Protein: 15g
Prep and Cooking Time:
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Servings:
- Serves: 4 people
Smashed Tomato Pasta is the epitome of easy Italian cooking, focusing on fresh ingredients and straightforward techniques to deliver a dish that’s both comforting and light. Enjoy this pasta with a side salad or fresh bread for a complete meal.
