Pomodoro Pasta

Did you know that pasta is the most consumed food in Italy, with the average Italian consuming over 60 pounds of it per year? That’s right! Italians have a deep love for pasta, and one dish that captures the essence of Italian cuisine is Pomodoro Pasta.

Are you looking for an authentic Italian pasta dish that you can whip up for a quick and delicious weeknight dinner? Look no further than Pomodoro Pasta. This recipe is incredibly easy to make, using simple ingredients that you likely already have in your pantry.

The star of this dish is the sauce made with ripe tomatoes, garlic, basil, and Parmesan cheese. The flavors are fresh and vibrant, making every bite a taste of Italy. Whether you’re a vegetarian or simply in the mood for a meatless meal, this Pomodoro Pasta recipe is sure to please.

Ingredient List & Possible Substitutions

Now let’s take a closer look at the ingredients you’ll need to make this delicious Pomodoro Pasta dish. Don’t worry if you don’t have all the exact ingredients on hand – I’ll also provide you with some alternative options.

The following are the key ingredients for Pomodoro Pasta:

1. Olive oil
2. Onion
3. Garlic
4. Crushed red pepper flakes
5. San Marzano whole peeled tomatoes
6. Kosher salt
7. Basil
8. Spaghetti
9. Unsalted butter
10. Parmesan cheese
11. Additional basil and Parmesan for garnish

If you don’t have San Marzano tomatoes, no worries! You can substitute them with regular canned tomatoes for equally delicious results.

When it comes to the pasta, feel free to get creative. While spaghetti is the traditional choice, you can use penne or linguine instead if you prefer.

For those following a vegan diet, you can substitute vegan Parmesan cheese or omit the cheese altogether without compromising the flavors of this dish.

If you’re ready to dive into the world of Pomodoro Pasta, gather your preferred ingredients and let’s get cooking!

How To Make It

Now that we have our ingredient list sorted, let’s dive into the cooking instructions for this delicious Pomodoro Pasta dish. Follow these steps to make an authentic Pomodoro sauce that perfectly complements the al dente pasta:

Step 1: Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the diced onions and minced garlic, and sauté until they become soft and translucent. This will release their aromatic flavors and provide a savory base for the sauce.

Step 2: Once the onions and garlic are cooked, it’s time to add a kick of heat to the sauce. Sprinkle in some crushed red pepper flakes according to your desired level of spiciness. Next, pour in the puréed tomatoes, either canned or made from scratch, and season with salt to taste. Stir everything well.

Step 3: Reduce the heat to low and let the sauce simmer for about 20 minutes, or until it thickens slightly. This will allow the flavors to meld together and create a rich, flavorful sauce.

Step 4: While the sauce is simmering, bring a pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add the spaghetti noodles and cook them according to the package instructions until they are al dente, or firm to the bite. Before draining the pasta, be sure to reserve about half a cup of the starchy pasta water. This will come in handy later to loosen the sauce if needed.

Step 5: Now it’s time to bring everything together. Add the cooked spaghetti directly into the skillet with the tomato sauce. Toss the pasta gently to coat it evenly with the sauce. For added richness and creaminess, stir in some unsalted butter and grated Parmesan cheese. The butter will emulsify with the sauce, creating a velvety texture, while the Parmesan cheese adds a savory, umami flavor.

Step 6: Plate the Pomodoro Pasta and serve it immediately. Garnish each serving with a sprinkle of fresh basil and a generous dusting of grated Parmesan cheese for some extra aroma and flavor.

Serving Suggestions

When it comes to serving Pomodoro Pasta, I have a few suggestions that will enhance your dining experience. This delicious dish pairs perfectly with a simple green salad and some warm, garlic bread on the side. The freshness and crunchiness of the salad complement the rich flavors of the pasta, while the garlic bread adds a comforting and savory touch.

To create a complete Italian-inspired meal, I recommend serving a Caprese salad alongside your Pomodoro Pasta. This salad combines fresh mozzarella, ripe tomatoes, and fragrant basil leaves drizzled with a balsamic glaze. It’s a refreshing and vibrant addition to the pasta, providing a balance of creamy, tangy, and herbaceous flavors.

No Italian meal is complete without a glass of wine. For a perfect pairing with Pomodoro Pasta, reach for a bottle of Chianti or Sangiovese. These red wines from Tuscany, Italy, complement the tomato-based sauce and add a touch of sophistication to your meal. The fruity and earthy notes of the wine elevate the flavors of the pasta, creating a harmonious combination.

Lastly, don’t forget to save some leftovers for the next day. Pomodoro Pasta tastes just as delicious when reheated, making it a fantastic option for a quick and satisfying lunch. All you need is a microwave to bring back the flavors of the pasta, and you’ll have a tasty meal ready in no time.

FAQ

Is Pomodoro Pasta a traditional Italian dish?

Yes, Pomodoro Pasta is an authentic Italian pasta dish that is beloved in households across Italy.

How easy is it to make Pomodoro Pasta?

Pomodoro Pasta is incredibly easy to make, perfect for busy weeknight dinners when you’re short on time.

What ingredients do I need to make Pomodoro Pasta?

The ingredients for Pomodoro Pasta are olive oil, onion, garlic, crushed red pepper flakes, San Marzano whole peeled tomatoes, kosher salt, basil, spaghetti, unsalted butter, Parmesan cheese, and additional basil and Parmesan for garnish.

Can I substitute San Marzano tomatoes with regular canned tomatoes?

Yes, if you don’t have San Marzano tomatoes, you can use regular canned tomatoes as a substitute.

Can I use a different type of pasta instead of spaghetti?

Absolutely! You can use a different type of pasta, such as penne or linguine, if you prefer.

Can I make a vegan version of Pomodoro Pasta?

Yes, for a vegan version, you can substitute vegan Parmesan cheese or omit the cheese altogether.

What is the cooking process for Pomodoro Pasta?

Heat olive oil in a skillet and sauté onions and garlic until soft. Add crushed red pepper flakes and puréed tomatoes to the skillet, season with salt, and simmer until the sauce thickens. Meanwhile, cook the spaghetti in boiling salted water until al dente. Reserve some pasta water before draining. Add the cooked pasta to the skillet with the tomato sauce, stir in butter and Parmesan cheese until melted, and coat the pasta with the sauce.

What are some serving suggestions for Pomodoro Pasta?

Pomodoro Pasta pairs well with a simple green salad and garlic bread on the side. For a complete Italian-inspired meal, consider serving a Caprese salad with fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil. It also pairs well with a glass of red wine, such as Chianti or Sangiovese.

Can I save leftovers of Pomodoro Pasta?

Absolutely! Pomodoro Pasta tastes just as delicious when reheated, so don’t forget to save some leftovers for lunch the next day.