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: 4 servings
Ingredients: 8 oz. angel hair pasta; 2 cups canned diced tomatoes; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped; 2 tbsp olive oil; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Easy Inspiration

I absolutely love making Easy Angel Hair Pasta With Tomato Basil Sauce for a quick weeknight dinner. The lightness of the angel hair combined with the freshness of the tomato and basil sauce creates a delightful dish that never fails to impress. It's not only simple but also bursting with flavor. With minimal ingredients and a short cooking time, I can whip this classic Italian meal up in no time. Perfect for when I want something delicious yet uncomplicated, it's become a staple in my kitchen.

Created by

Tamsyn Calder

Last updated on 2026-02-23T18:48:44.013Z

While experimenting in my kitchen, I discovered that using high-quality canned tomatoes elevates the flavor of the sauce tremendously. I remember hesitating to use canned tomatoes before, but once I tried it, I understood the magic they bring, especially when blended with fresh basil.

To add a little zing to the sauce, I like to finish it off with a sprinkle of red pepper flakes. This gives the dish a subtle warmth that perfectly complements the sweet tomatoes and fragrant basil. A simple tweak, but it makes all the difference!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Fresh flavors that brighten up your meal time
Quick to prepare, making it ideal for any night
Customizable with your favorite vegetables or proteins

Mastering the Sauce

Creating a flavorful sauce is crucial for this dish. The key to a rich tomato basil sauce is the quality of the canned tomatoes; choosing San Marzano tomatoes can elevate the overall taste. When sautéing the garlic, be careful not to let it brown; a minute or two is usually sufficient. I find that adding a splash of balsamic vinegar can deepen the flavors and add a touch of sweetness if desired.

Allowing the sauce to simmer for about five minutes helps meld the flavors together. During this time, keep an eye on the tomatoes, stirring occasionally. You want the mixture to be thick enough to cling to the pasta but still juicy. If it gets too thick, adding a bit of the pasta water can help achieve the right consistency.

Perfecting the Pasta

Cooking the angel hair pasta just right is essential for the best texture. Since it cooks quickly, about four minutes, prepare your sauce and any additional ingredients beforehand to streamline the process. When the pasta is done, it should be al dente, which means it should have a slight bite in the center. Overcooking can lead to a mushy texture, so watch it closely.

Draining the pasta is also crucial. I like to reserve a cup of the pasta cooking water before draining; this starchy water can be a great addition to the sauce if needed. If you're making the dish ahead of time, consider undercooking the pasta slightly to account for reheating; the pasta will absorb more sauce as it sits.

Ingredients

For the Pasta and Sauce

8 oz. angel hair pasta
2 cups canned diced tomatoes
2 cloves garlic, minced
1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
2 tbsp olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

Cook the Pasta

Bring a pot of salted water to a boil. Add the angel hair pasta and cook according to package instructions, typically around 4 minutes. Drain and set aside.

Prepare the Sauce

In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant. Add the canned diced tomatoes, season with salt and pepper, and let simmer for about 5 minutes.

Combine Pasta and Sauce

Stir in the cooked pasta and fresh basil into the sauce. Toss everything together over low heat for another 2 minutes, allowing the pasta to absorb some sauce.

Serve

Serve hot, garnished with additional basil if desired.

Pro Tips

For a creamier sauce, add a splash of heavy cream during the simmering process. You can also enhance the dish with grated Parmesan cheese on top before serving.

Customization Ideas

One of the best aspects of this dish is its versatility. You can easily add sautéed vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, or spinach to the sauce for added nutrition and texture. If you're looking for extra protein, grilled chicken or shrimp pairs beautifully with the pasta and can be tossed in just before serving.

For a different twist, consider trying this recipe with whole wheat or gluten-free angel hair pasta. The flavor of the sauce complements various pasta types, allowing you to cater to dietary preferences without losing the dish's essence.

Storage and Meal Prep

If you have leftovers, store the pasta and sauce separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator. The sauce will keep for up to three days while the pasta is best enjoyed within two days. When reheating, add a splash of olive oil or pasta water to loosen the sauce and prevent the pasta from becoming clumpy.

This dish also makes a great meal prep option. You can prepare the sauce in advance and keep it in the freezer for up to three months. Just make sure to cool it completely before freezing. When you're ready to enjoy it, defrost it in the fridge overnight and reheat on the stovetop.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use gluten-free pasta?

Absolutely! Gluten-free angel hair or any other pasta you like will work well.

→ What can I add to this dish for more protein?

You can add grilled chicken, shrimp, or even chickpeas for a plant-based option.

→ Is this dish suitable for meal prep?

Yes! You can prepare the sauce in advance, and keep it stored in the fridge for a few days.

→ How can I make this dish spicier?

Try adding more red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to give it an extra kick!