Linguine With Fresh Tomato Sauce
A vibrant and fresh Italian pasta dish featuring linguine tossed in a fragrant tomato basil sauce, perfect for a quick, flavorful meal that highlights summer tomatoes and herbs.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Chop the tomatoes.
- Add olive oil and chopped fresh basil to the tomatoes.
- Add minced garlic to the mixture.
- Toss the sauce with hot cooked linguine noodles.
- Sprinkle with Parmesan cheese before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a fresher flavor, use ripe, in-season tomatoes. If fresh tomatoes aren't available, canned San Marzano tomatoes can be a great substitute. To enhance the sauce, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes or a splash of balsamic vinegar. For a creamier texture, a dollop of ricotta cheese can be stirred in before serving. This recipe can also be adapted to include vegetables, as seen in Penne Pasta With Vegetables.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the linguine topped with extra Parmesan cheese and a sprinkle of fresh basil for added flavor. This dish pairs beautifully with a side salad or garlic bread for a complete meal. For a heartier option, consider serving it alongside Italian recipes like 3-Cheese Lasagna In Half The Time. A crisp white wine, such as Pinot Grigio, complements the fresh tomato sauce perfectly.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm the pasta in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of water or olive oil to prevent sticking. Alternatively, you can microwave it in short intervals, stirring in between, to ensure even heating without overcooking the pasta.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Linguine With Fresh Tomato Sauce contains roughly 429 calories, with 15g protein, 52g carbohydrates, and 19g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (76% of the Daily Value), protein (31% of the Daily Value), and calcium (28% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 683mg per serving (30% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use dried herbs instead of fresh basil?
While fresh basil provides the best flavor, you can substitute dried basil in a pinch. Use about one-third of the amount, as dried herbs are more concentrated. However, to maintain the dish's freshness, try to add the dried herbs early in the cooking process to allow them to rehydrate and release their flavors.
What type of tomatoes are best for this recipe?
For the best flavor, use ripe, juicy tomatoes like Roma or heirloom varieties. They have a higher sweetness and lower water content, which creates a more concentrated sauce. If tomatoes are out of season, you can opt for canned whole tomatoes, which can also yield delicious results when pureed or chopped.
Can I make this dish vegan?
Yes, you can easily make this dish vegan by omitting the Parmesan cheese or substituting it with a vegan cheese alternative. Nutritional yeast can also be used to add a cheesy flavor without dairy. Additionally, make sure to use an olive oil that is free from any animal-derived additives for a completely plant-based meal.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).