Easy 3-Ingredient Tomato Basil Pasta

When life calls for a comforting, vibrant, and fuss-free meal, nothing hits the spot quite like this Easy 3-Ingredient Tomato Basil Pasta. With just a handful of pantry staples and fresh ingredients, this dish comes together in no time, delivering a burst of fresh tomato sweetness and fragrant basil that’s simply irresistible. Whether you’re a busy weeknight warrior or just craving a quick, delicious pasta, this recipe is your new go-to.

Why It Works Every Time

This Easy 3-Ingredient Tomato Basil Pasta is a triumph of simplicity. The magic lies in using fresh, quality ingredients that complement each other perfectly. Cherry tomatoes burst with natural sweetness and juiciness when cooked, creating a light yet flavorful sauce. Fresh basil adds an aromatic, peppery note that brightens the whole dish. Meanwhile, spaghetti acts as the perfect canvas, soaking up all those wonderful flavors without overpowering them. The beauty is in the balance and minimalism, making it both approachable and impressive.

Plus, the method is straightforward: no heavy sauces, no long cook times, just pure, fresh flavor. This recipe proves you don’t need a long list of ingredients to make something truly satisfying.

What We’re Using

• 8 oz spaghetti: Choose your favorite type—regular, whole wheat, or gluten-free—to suit your preference and dietary needs.
• 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved: These small tomatoes are perfect for quick cooking, bursting with juice and natural sweetness.
• 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped: Fresh basil is the star herb here, lending a vibrant, aromatic finish to the dish.

Cook’s Kit

• Large pot: For boiling the spaghetti to al dente perfection.
• Large skillet or sauté pan: To cook down the tomatoes and toss the pasta.
• Colander: For draining the cooked pasta.
• Sharp knife: To halve the cherry tomatoes and chop the basil.
• Tongs or pasta fork: For tossing the pasta with the sauce evenly.

From Start to Finish: Easy 3-Ingredient Tomato Basil Pasta

Step 1: Cook the Spaghetti

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the 8 oz spaghetti and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve about 1/2 cup of pasta water before draining.

Step 2: Prepare the Tomato Sauce

While the pasta cooks, heat a drizzle of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the halved cherry tomatoes and cook, stirring occasionally, until they start to soften and release their juices, about 5-7 minutes. You want a light sauce to form with tender tomatoes.

Step 3: Combine Pasta and Sauce

Add the drained spaghetti directly to the skillet with the tomato mixture. Toss together over low heat, adding a splash of reserved pasta water if needed to loosen the sauce and help it coat the pasta beautifully.

Step 4: Add Fresh Basil

Remove the pan from heat, then stir in the chopped fresh basil. The residual heat will gently release the basil’s aroma without wilting it completely, keeping that fresh pop of flavor.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

Transfer to plates or bowls and enjoy immediately. For an extra touch, drizzle with a little more olive oil or sprinkle with freshly ground black pepper. This dish pairs wonderfully with a crisp green salad or a slice of crusty bread.

Variations for Dietary Needs

• Gluten-Free: Swap out regular spaghetti for gluten-free pasta.
• Vegan: This recipe is naturally vegan, but if you want to add protein, consider tossing in some sautéed mushrooms or chickpeas.
• Low-Carb: Use spiralized zucchini or shirataki noodles instead of spaghetti.
• Extra Protein: Add grilled chicken strips or sautéed shrimp as a topping for a heartier meal.

Don’t Do This

• Don’t overcook the pasta; you want it al dente to hold up well with the fresh tomato sauce.
• Don’t skip reserving pasta water—it’s key for adjusting sauce consistency.
• Don’t add the basil too early; cooking it for too long dulls its flavor and color.
• Don’t use canned tomatoes here—the fresh cherry tomatoes give this dish its light, summery vibe.

Store, Freeze & Reheat

This pasta is best enjoyed fresh, but you can store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When reheating, add a splash of water or olive oil and warm gently on the stovetop to revive the sauce and prevent the pasta from drying out. Freezing is not recommended as the texture of the fresh tomatoes and basil will suffer.

Your Top Questions

Can I use other types of tomatoes?

Absolutely! While cherry tomatoes are ideal for their sweetness and quick cooking, grape tomatoes or small roma tomatoes can also work well. Just be sure to adjust cooking time if using larger tomatoes.

What if I don’t have fresh basil on hand?

Fresh basil is essential for that bright flavor, but if you’re out, you could substitute with fresh parsley or a small amount of dried basil, though the flavor won’t be as vibrant. Alternatively, try pairing this pasta with a Simple Homemade Tomato Soup for a comforting tomato fix.

Can I make this pasta ahead of time?

Because of the fresh basil and delicate tomato sauce, this dish is best served immediately. If you need to prepare in advance, cook the pasta and tomato mixture separately, then combine and add fresh basil just before serving.

How can I add more flavor without extra ingredients?

Try gently sautéing the tomatoes with a clove of minced garlic or a pinch of red pepper flakes if you have them on hand. Another option is finishing the dish with a drizzle of high-quality extra virgin olive oil for richness.

One Pan, More Ideas

• Simple Homemade Tomato Soup – A perfect pairing or follow-up meal to keep that fresh tomato vibe going.
• Creamy Tomato Basil Soup – If you love the flavors here, this velvety soup is a delicious twist with a creamy finish.
• One-pan garlic butter shrimp pasta – For a protein-packed variation that’s just as easy.
• Sheet pan roasted vegetable pasta – Roast your favorite veggies on a sheet pan and toss with spaghetti for a hearty, colorful meal.

Next Steps

Now that you have this Easy 3-Ingredient Tomato Basil Pasta recipe in your cooking arsenal, challenge yourself to experiment with fresh ingredients and simple techniques. Try pairing this pasta with a light salad or a homemade soup to round out your meal. Looking for more tomato-based inspiration? Dive into recipes like Simple Homemade Tomato Soup or a Creamy Tomato Basil Soup to keep your kitchen buzzing with delicious aromas.

Whether you’re cooking for one or feeding a crowd, this pasta is sure to become a favorite for its ease, flavor, and fresh appeal. Grab those three ingredients and get cooking—your next favorite meal is ready in under 20 minutes!

Share on Pinterest