Easy Angel Hair Pasta With Tomato Basil Sauce

Name: Easy Angel Hair Pasta With Tomato Basil Sauce
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 20 min
Yield: 2 servings
Ingredients: 200g angel hair pasta; Salt, for boiling water; 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved; 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped; 3 tablespoons olive oil; 2 cloves garlic, minced; Salt and pepper to taste; Parmesan cheese, for serving (optional)

Highlighted under: Easy Inspiration

I love making Easy Angel Hair Pasta with Tomato Basil Sauce because it’s incredibly quick and bursting with flavor. This recipe has become a staple in my kitchen, especially during busy weeknights. With just a handful of fresh ingredients, I can whip up a vibrant and mouthwatering dish in about 20 minutes. The combination of juicy tomatoes and fragrant basil creates a delightful sauce that complements the delicate texture of angel hair pasta. Trust me, once you try this, it’ll be your go-to pasta dish too!

Created by

Tamsyn Calder

Last updated on 2026-02-23T18:44:48.743Z

When I first experimented with this Easy Angel Hair Pasta, I was amazed at how quickly it came together. The simplicity of using fresh, ripe tomatoes and aromatic basil made the flavor pop without any fuss. I’ve learned that sautéing the tomatoes just until they break down creates a lovely sauce that clings perfectly to the pasta.

One of my favorite tips is to reserve a little pasta water before draining. This starchy water can enhance the sauce's consistency and help it adhere to the pasta beautifully. It’s those little details that elevate a simple recipe into something truly special!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Quick and effortless for weeknight dinners
Fresh and vibrant flavors from simple ingredients
Pasta dish that impresses without the stress

Perfecting the Sauce

The key to a vibrant tomato basil sauce lies in the quality of your tomatoes. I recommend using fresh, ripe cherry tomatoes as they provide a natural sweetness and excellent flavor. If cherry tomatoes aren't available, you can substitute with diced canned tomatoes for a similar taste. Make sure to let them simmer to develop their flavors—cook until they are soft and begin to release their juices, about five minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.

Garlic is another vital ingredient that enhances the sauce. Cook it until it's fragrant but not browned, as overcooking can lead to a bitter taste. As the garlic sizzles in olive oil, it should become translucent, signaling it's ready for the tomatoes. Using freshly minced garlic instead of jarred can make a notable difference in the flavor profile.

Texture and Serving Suggestions

Angel hair pasta is delicate and can easily overcook, so keep a close eye on it while boiling. Follow the package instructions but taste a minute before the suggested time should elapse; it should be slightly firm in the center (al dente). After draining, a quick toss with a little olive oil can help prevent sticking as it waits to be combined with the sauce.

For serving, I often sprinkle freshly grated Parmesan cheese over the top, which adds a salty, nutty flavor that complements the dish beautifully. For additional flair, consider garnishing with extra fresh basil or a drizzle of balsamic reduction. This dish is excellent served alongside a light salad for a well-rounded meal. Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to three days, making for a quick lunch option.

Ingredients

For the Pasta

200g angel hair pasta
Salt, for boiling water

For the Sauce

2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
3 tablespoons olive oil
2 cloves garlic, minced
Salt and pepper to taste
Parmesan cheese, for serving (optional)

Instructions

Cook the Pasta

In a large pot, bring water to a boil, adding salt. Cook the angel hair pasta according to package instructions until al dente, about 3-4 minutes. Drain and reserve some pasta water.

Prepare the Sauce

In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant.

Add Tomatoes and Basil

Stir in the halved cherry tomatoes and cook for about 5 minutes until they soften. Add the chopped basil and season with salt and pepper.

Combine

Add the drained pasta to the skillet, tossing to combine. If the sauce is too thick, add a little reserved pasta water to reach your desired consistency.

Serve

Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.

Pro Tips

For an extra kick, consider adding red pepper flakes to the sauce while cooking. You can also substitute other fresh herbs like oregano or thyme for a different flavor profile.

Make-Ahead Tips

If you're short on time, you can prepare the sauce in advance. Sauté the garlic, tomatoes, and basil ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to two days. When you're ready to eat, simply reheat the sauce over medium heat while boiling the pasta for a streamlined dinner.

Another great time-saver is to cook the pasta ahead of time. Cook it until just shy of al dente, drain, and cool it under cold water. Toss with a bit of olive oil to prevent clumping, then refrigerate. When you're ready to serve, just reheat in the sauce for a couple of minutes before serving.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If your sauce seems too thin, you can simmer it longer to reduce and thicken it. Alternatively, add a teaspoon of tomato paste to intensify the flavor and help with thickness. On the other hand, if it turns out too thick, gradually mix in some reserved pasta water until you achieve the desired consistency.

Sometimes, the flavors may come out less vibrant than you expect. If that’s the case, a squeeze of fresh lemon juice or a dash of red pepper flakes can brighten the sauce remarkably, adding a zing that rounds out the flavors beautifully.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use other types of pasta?

Yes, feel free to substitute with your favorite pasta. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly.

→ Is this recipe easily doubled?

Absolutely! Just double the ingredients and follow the same cooking instructions.

→ Can I make this dish ahead of time?

While it’s best fresh, you can prepare the sauce ahead and store it in the fridge for up to 2 days. Cook the pasta fresh before serving.

→ What can I serve this with?

This pasta pairs well with a simple green salad or garlic bread for a fuller meal.