Angel Hair Pasta with Fresh Tomatoes

Short Description

A light yet satisfying summer dish featuring delicate angel hair pasta tossed with a no-cook sauce of sun-ripened tomatoes, fragrant basil, and extra-virgin olive oil. Ready in about 20 minutes, it captures the essence of the season in every forkful.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Speedy weeknight option: Angel hair cooks in mere minutes, so dinner is on the table fast.

• Showcases fresh produce: Raw tomatoes keep their bright flavor and vivid color.

• Minimal ingredients, maximum taste: A handful of pantry staples let the tomatoes shine.

• Versatile: Works as a meatless main or a side alongside grilled fish or chicken.

• Light and wholesome: Olive oil–based “sauce” keeps the dish fresh, not heavy.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Angel hair pasta

• Fresh ripe tomatoes (cherry or plum)

• Extra-virgin olive oil

• Garlic

• Fresh basil leaves

• Kosher salt

• Freshly ground black pepper

• Red-pepper flakes (optional)

• Grated Parmesan or Pecorino Romano (optional)

Directions

1. Marinate the tomatoes
   Combine diced tomatoes, olive oil, minced garlic, salt, pepper, and red-pepper flakes in a large bowl. Let stand 15 minutes so the flavors meld.

2. Cook the pasta
   Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add angel hair and cook 2 minutes less than package directions (about 3 minutes). Reserve ½ cup pasta water.

3. Combine
   Drain pasta and immediately add it to the tomato mixture. Toss, adding splashes of reserved pasta water to create a light glossy sauce.

4. Finish
   Fold in torn basil and, if using, cheese. Taste and adjust seasoning.

5. Serve
   Plate at once, garnishing with extra basil and cheese.

Servings and Timing

• Yield: 4 standard servings

• Prep time: 10 minutes

• Marinating time: 15 minutes (hands-off)

• Cook time: 5 minutes

• Total time: 20 minutes active; 35 minutes including marination

Variations

• Add protein: Top with grilled shrimp or sliced chicken breast.

• Roasted twist: Swap raw tomatoes for slow-roasted cherry tomatoes for deeper sweetness.

• Herb swap: Substitute flat-leaf parsley or fresh oregano for basil.

• Cheese change-up: Use crumbled goat cheese for tang instead of Parmesan.

• Heat lovers: Increase red-pepper flakes or add a pinch of Calabrian chili paste.

Storage/Reheating

Cool leftovers promptly, then refrigerate in an airtight container up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat with a splash of water or olive oil; avoid microwaving, which can turn the pasta mushy. The dish is also delicious served at room temperature like a pasta salad.

FAQs

How do I keep angel hair from clumping?

Toss the drained pasta immediately with the tomato mixture and a little reserved cooking water; coating it while hot prevents sticking.

Can I use another pasta shape?

Yes—thin spaghetti, capellini, or even linguine work. Adjust cooking time as needed.

Are canned tomatoes acceptable?

Fresh tomatoes are preferred for their bright flavor, but high-quality canned San Marzano tomatoes (drained and chopped) will suffice in the off-season.

Is this recipe vegan?

It is naturally vegan if you omit Parmesan or use a plant-based alternative.

How salty should the pasta water be?

Aim for “ocean-salty,” roughly 1 tablespoon of kosher salt per 4 litres of water. Properly seasoned water is key to flavorful pasta.

Can I prepare the tomato mixture in advance?

Yes—marinate up to 4 hours at room temperature or 24 hours refrigerated. Bring to room temperature before tossing with pasta.

What tomatoes are best?

Choose sweet, fully ripe cherry, grape, or plum tomatoes. Overly watery beefsteak tomatoes can dilute the sauce.

How can I make it gluten-free?

Use a high-quality gluten-free angel hair made from rice or corn and follow the same method.

Will the garlic taste raw?

The residual heat from the pasta softens raw garlic’s bite, but you may lightly sauté the garlic in the olive oil for 30 seconds if you prefer a milder flavor.

Can I serve this chilled?

For best texture, serve warm or at room temperature; chilling can mute tomato flavor and firm up the pasta.

Conclusion

Angel Hair Pasta with Fresh Tomatoes is a masterclass in simplicity: peak-season produce, quality olive oil, and al dente pasta combine for a dish that feels both effortless and elegant. Keep this recipe in your repertoire for weeknights when time is short yet you crave something vibrant and satisfying

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