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; Salt, for boiling water; 2 tbsp olive oil; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 4 medium ripe tomatoes, diced; ½ cup fresh basil leaves, chopped; Salt and pepper to taste; Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving

Highlighted under: Easy Quick Meals Inspiration

I love making this Easy Angel Hair Pasta with Tomato Basil Sauce on busy weeknights when I need something quick yet satisfying. The delicate strands of angel hair cook up in just a few minutes, allowing me to whip up a flavorful sauce with fresh basil and ripe tomatoes in no time. It’s a dish that celebrates simplicity and freshness, and every bite reminds me of summer days spent at the farmer's market selecting the ripest produce. If you're short on time but want a delicious meal, this recipe is for you!

Created by

Grace Walker

Last updated on 2026-02-23T23:40:48.511Z

When I first tried making angel hair pasta at home, I was amazed at how quickly everything came together. The trick is to keep the sauce simple and balance the flavors of fresh tomatoes and fragrant basil. Each time I make this recipe, I’m reminded of how a few quality ingredients can transform a meal. I often use my garden harvest, especially in the summer, for the best flavor.

One of my favorite tips is to reserve a bit of the pasta cooking water. Adding it to the sauce not only helps to bind the pasta and sauce together but also enhances the overall flavor. You’ll find the dish is incredibly satisfying without being heavy, making it perfect for any occasion!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Quick and easy to prepare, perfect for busy nights
Bright, fresh flavors from ripe tomatoes and basil
Light yet satisfying, a staple for any pasta lover

Choosing the Right Tomatoes

When making the sauce for your Easy Angel Hair Pasta, the type of tomatoes you use can significantly influence the flavor. Ripe, in-season tomatoes have a natural sweetness that enhances the overall dish. If fresh tomatoes are not available, using canned San Marzano tomatoes is an excellent alternative due to their rich flavor. Simply drain them, crush them by hand, and they can be used directly in the sauce.

Dicing your tomatoes evenly also helps them cook uniformly, absorbing the seasoning better. Aim for ½-inch cubes; this size will soften nicely in the skillet, contributing to a rich texture without turning mushy.

Perfecting Your Pasta Texture

Cooking angel hair pasta can be tricky due to its delicate nature. Keep a close eye on it, as it cooks quickly—often in just 2-4 minutes. Testing for doneness by tasting a strand will help you avoid overcooking, which leads to a mushy texture. Remember, it should be al dente: firm to the bite but not chalky.

A helpful tip is to save a cup of the starchy pasta water before draining. This water can be added to your sauce to adjust its consistency. If the sauce thickens too much, the reserved water also enhances the flavor, bringing the dish together elegantly.

Ingredients

For the Pasta

8 oz angel hair pasta
Salt, for boiling water

For the Sauce

2 tbsp olive oil
3 cloves garlic, minced
4 medium ripe tomatoes, diced
½ cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
Salt and pepper to taste
Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving

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, about 2-4 minutes. Drain, reserving a cup of pasta water.

Prepare the Sauce

While the pasta cooks, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute. Stir in the diced tomatoes and cook for 3-4 minutes until softened.

Combine and Serve

Add the cooked pasta to the skillet with the sauce. Toss to combine, adding reserved pasta water as needed for desired consistency. Stir in chopped basil and season with salt and pepper. Serve hot with grated Parmesan cheese.

Pro Tips

For an extra kick, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce. Don't forget to taste and adjust seasoning to your preference!

Storing and Reheating Tips

If you have leftover pasta, store it in an airtight container for up to three days in the refrigerator. To keep the pasta from drying out, add a splash of olive oil in the container before sealing. When reheating, I recommend using a skillet on low heat, adding a bit of water to bring moisture back into the dish while gently tossing it to warm through.

You can also freeze the cooked sauce for up to a month. Just portion it out in freezer-safe bags. When you're ready to eat, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before reheating. The sauce may lose some freshness, but the flavors will still be delicious.

Serving Suggestions

This pasta pairs wonderfully with a simple side salad drizzled with a light vinaigrette, balancing out the richness of the dish. For an added layer of flavor, consider tossing in cooked vegetables such as sautéed spinach or zucchini into the sauce, enhancing both nutrition and texture.

To elevate your dish further, consider garnishing with additional fresh basil and a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for a hint of spice. Using high-quality Parmesan cheese will also contribute to an enjoyable mouthfeel and robust flavor profile.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use dried basil instead of fresh?

While fresh basil is recommended for its vibrant flavor, you can substitute dried basil. Use 1 teaspoon of dried basil for every tablespoon of fresh.

→ How can I make this dish vegan?

Simply omit the Parmesan cheese and you’ll have a delicious vegan pasta dish!

→ Can I add protein to this recipe?

Absolutely! Grilled chicken, shrimp, or even chickpeas would complement the dish beautifully.

→ What can I do with leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove with a splash of olive oil.