Easy Angel Hair Pasta With Tomato Basil Sauce

Name: Easy Angel Hair Pasta With Tomato Basil Sauce
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 8 oz angel hair pasta; Salt (for boiling water); 2 cups ripe tomatoes, chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped; 3 tbsp olive oil; Salt and pepper to taste; Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)

Highlighted under: Easy Inspiration

I love whipping up this Easy Angel Hair Pasta with Tomato Basil Sauce when I need a quick yet satisfying meal. The beauty of this dish lies in its simplicity and fresh ingredients, making it a perfect choice for any night of the week. With just a handful of ingredients, I’m able to create a delightful sauce that brings out the richness of ripe tomatoes and the fragrance of fresh basil. In no time, I'm enjoying a delightful bowl of pasta that feels both light and indulgent!

Created by

Tamsyn Calder

Last updated on 2026-02-23T18:52:42.700Z

When I first made this Easy Angel Hair Pasta with Tomato Basil Sauce, I was amazed at how fast and flavorful it turned out. The key is to use fresh tomatoes and basil, which really elevate the dish. I often find that cooking the sauce for just the right amount of time ensures it retains the vibrant taste of the ingredients without becoming mushy.

The process is incredibly straightforward, yet the results are impressive. I've learned that a little bit of olive oil and garlic go a long way in enhancing the flavors. To make it even more special, I like to add a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese right before serving—it truly makes the dish shine!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Quick cooking time for busy evenings
Fresh and vibrant flavors from simple ingredients
Perfect balance of savory and sweet from the tomatoes
Elegant enough for entertaining without the fuss

The Art of Cooking Angel Hair Pasta

Cooking angel hair pasta requires attention to timing, as its delicate strands can overcook easily. I recommend setting a timer for one minute less than the package instructions suggest, checking for that perfect al dente texture. When you drain the pasta, make sure to reserve a small cup of the cooking water; it can come in handy for adjusting your sauce later, helping it cling beautifully to the noodles.

To enhance the flavor of your pasta, consider tossing it with a splash of olive oil right after draining. This not only prevents sticking but also adds a touch of richness that complements the freshness of the Tomato Basil Sauce. Plus, if you’re planning to make this dish in advance, this step keeps the pasta fresh and flavorful until you’re ready to combine it with the sauce.

Maximizing Flavor with Fresh Ingredients

Using ripe, in-season tomatoes is crucial for achieving a truly delicious sauce. Their natural sweetness will balance beautifully with the garlic and basil. If fresh tomatoes aren’t available, you can substitute with high-quality canned tomatoes; choose one that lists only tomatoes as the main ingredient for the best flavor. Remember to drain excess liquid if using canned to maintain the right consistency in your sauce.

Fresh basil should be added towards the end of the cooking process to preserve its vibrant flavor and bright color. If you don’t have fresh basil, you can use dried basil, but the flavor will be less intense. In that case, add it earlier in the cooking process; about half a teaspoon should suffice. The aromatic oils release during cooking will enhance the overall dish.

Ingredients

For the Pasta

8 oz angel hair pasta
Salt (for boiling water)

For the Sauce

2 cups ripe tomatoes, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
3 tbsp olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste
Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)

Mix the fresh ingredients together to create a flavorful sauce.

Instructions

Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the angel hair pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Prepare the Sauce

In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute. Then, add the chopped tomatoes and season with salt and pepper. Cook for 5-7 minutes until the tomatoes soften.

Combine Pasta and Sauce

Stir the cooked angel hair into the skillet with the tomato sauce. Add the chopped basil, tossing everything together until well combined. Cook for an additional 2 minutes to let the flavors meld.

Serve

Plate the pasta and sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese, if desired. Enjoy your Easy Angel Hair Pasta with Tomato Basil Sauce!

Feel free to customize the dish with your favorite vegetables or proteins.

Pro Tips

For added depth, you can roast the tomatoes beforehand. It enhances their sweetness and creates a richer sauce.

Serving Suggestions and Pairings

For a delightful presentation, serve your Easy Angel Hair Pasta in shallow bowls. You can garnish it with a sprinkle of extra basil or a drizzle of high-quality olive oil for an elegant touch. Pair this dish with a side salad, featuring ingredients like arugula and cherry tomatoes, dressed lightly with balsamic vinaigrette, to complement the flavors of the pasta.

If you're looking to elevate this dish even further, consider adding some sautéed vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, or spinach to the sauce. These add depth and nutritional value, making the dish not only visually appealing but also hearty. Just chop and sauté the vegetables before adding the tomatoes, allowing them to mingle and flavor the sauce.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

This pasta dish is best enjoyed fresh, but if you want to prepare it in advance, cook the pasta and sauce separately. Store each in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to serve, simply reheat the sauce on low heat, adding a splash of reserved pasta water if needed to loosen it up, and then toss in the pasta until thoroughly heated.

Freezing is also an option if you want to enjoy this dish later. For best results, freeze the sauce without the pasta. Allow it to cool completely before transferring to freezer-safe containers. It can be frozen for up to three months. When ready to use, thaw it in the fridge overnight, then gently heat it on the stove while cooking fresh pasta to achieve the best texture.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use canned tomatoes instead of fresh?

Yes, canned tomatoes can be used, but fresh tomatoes offer a brighter flavor.

→ How can I make this dish gluten-free?

Substitue traditional pasta with gluten-free pasta alternatives, and follow the same instructions.

→ What can I serve with this pasta?

A side salad or garlic bread pairs wonderfully with this dish.

→ Can I freeze the sauce for later use?

Yes, the sauce freezes well. Just make sure to store it in an airtight container.