Simple Tomato & Basil Pasta
A quick, fresh, and classic Italian-inspired meal that's perfect for a weeknight. The secret is using high-quality ingredients to let the simple flavours shine.
Ingredients
- 400g gluten-free spaghetti or penne 400g | gluten-free spaghetti or penne
- 2 tbsp olive oil 2 tbsp | olive oil
- 2 garlic cloves finely sliced
- 400g can chopped tomatoes (good quality, like Mutti or San Marzano)
- 1 tsp caster sugar (optional, to balance acidity)
- Large handful of fresh basil leaves (torn)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper
- To serve: (Parmesan cheese (optional, ensure vegetarian if needed))
Instructions
- Cook the gluten-free pasta in a large pot of well-salted boiling water according to package directions. Gluten-free pasta can be sticky, so stir it well after adding it to the water
- While the pasta is cooking, make the sauce. Heat the olive oil in a large frying pan over a medium heat. Add the sliced garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant and lightly golden. Be careful not to burn it
- Pour the chopped tomatoes into the pan with the garlic. Add the sugar (if using) and a good pinch of salt and pepper. Stir well
- Bring the sauce to a gentle simmer and let it cook for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it has thickened slightly
- Just before the pasta is ready, reserve a cupful of the starchy pasta water. Drain the pasta well
- Add the torn basil leaves to the tomato sauce and stir through
- Tip the drained pasta into the pan with the sauce. Toss everything together until the pasta is well-coated. If the sauce seems too thick, add a splash of the reserved pasta water to loosen it to your desired consistency
- Serve immediately in warm bowls, with an extra drizzle of olive oil, a sprinkle of black pepper, and a grating of Parmesan cheese, if you like
Notes
The quality of your tinned tomatoes makes all the difference here. San Marzano tomatoes are famous for their sweetness and low acidity. Adding a splash of the starchy pasta water helps the sauce cling to the gluten-free pasta, creating a silkier texture.
Equipment Needed
- Large Pot
- Large Frying Pan
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