Fresh Tomato Summer Pasta Sauce

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

When tomatoes are at their peak, there’s nothing better than a fresh tomato sauce to capture their natural sweetness. This sauce uses simple, high-quality ingredients, like fresh garlic, basil, and toasted pine nuts, to enhance the tomatoes’ flavor. It’s a lighter alternative to traditional pasta sauces, making it perfect for summer meals. Plus, it’s quick and easy to prepare, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknights or leisurely weekend dinners.

Ingredients

• 3 large fresh tomatoes (or a mix of cherry and pear tomatoes)
• ½ cup Parmesan or Pecorino Romano cheese, freshly grated
• 2-3 cloves garlic, minced
• ⅓ cup fresh basil, cut chiffonade
• ¼ cup pine nuts, toasted
• ¼ cup olive oil
• 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
• Kosher salt and pepper to taste
• ½ pound pasta

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Prepare the tomatoes: If using large tomatoes, dice them into small pieces. If using cherry and pear tomatoes, halve or quarter them, depending on size. Set them aside.
2. Toast the pine nuts: In a small pan, toast the pine nuts over medium heat for 2-3 minutes, or until golden brown. Stir constantly to prevent burning. Remove from heat and set aside.
3. Cook the pasta: Cook the pasta according to the package instructions in a large pot of salted water. Once cooked, reserve ¼ cup of pasta water and drain the rest. Set the pasta aside.
4. Make the sauce: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant but not browned. Add the chopped tomatoes to the skillet, and cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the tomatoes begin to soften and release their juices.
5. Season the sauce: Stir in the balsamic vinegar and cook for another minute. Season with kosher salt and pepper to taste.
6. Combine pasta and sauce: Add the cooked pasta to the skillet with the tomato sauce. Toss the pasta to coat it in the sauce. If the sauce is too thick, add some reserved pasta water to loosen it up.
7. Finish the dish: Stir in the fresh basil, and top with toasted pine nuts and freshly grated Parmesan or Pecorino Romano cheese. Toss everything together and serve immediately.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: This recipe serves 2-3 people.
• Total Time: 25 minutes of active preparation time.

Variations

• Add protein: For a more substantial meal, add grilled chicken, shrimp, or sausage to the pasta.
• Vegan option: Omit the cheese or use a dairy-free cheese alternative to make the dish vegan.
• Spicy kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the garlic when sautéing for a bit of heat.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store any leftover pasta and sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
• Reheating: Reheat in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of olive oil or pasta water to loosen the sauce if necessary.

FAQs

1. Can I use canned tomatoes instead of fresh?

While fresh tomatoes are ideal for this recipe, you can use canned tomatoes in a pinch. However, the flavor will be slightly different, as fresh tomatoes have a more vibrant taste.

2. Can I use a different type of cheese?

Yes! Pecorino Romano or any hard Italian cheese works well. If you want a milder cheese, try using mozzarella or a soft ricotta.

3. Can I make this sauce ahead of time?

This sauce is best when freshly made, but you can prepare the tomato mixture ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to a day. Reheat before serving.

4. Can I use other nuts besides pine nuts?

Yes, toasted almonds or walnuts can also work well as a substitute for pine nuts in this recipe.

5. How can I make the sauce thicker?

If you prefer a thicker sauce, you can cook the tomatoes longer to reduce the liquid, or add a small amount of tomato paste.

6. Can I use store-bought balsamic vinegar glaze instead of balsamic vinegar?

Yes, you can use balsamic vinegar glaze for a sweeter and thicker consistency, but the flavor will be slightly different.

7. Can I freeze this pasta sauce?

While the sauce can be frozen, the texture of the fresh basil and pine nuts may change when thawed. It’s best enjoyed fresh.

8. Can I add other vegetables to the sauce?

Yes, you can add other vegetables like spinach, zucchini, or bell peppers to the sauce for more variety.

9. Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes, any pasta shape you prefer will work well in this dish. Penne, spaghetti, or fusilli are good alternatives.

10. How can I make this sauce spicier?

For some heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes when sautéing the garlic or drizzle with chili oil before serving.

Conclusion

This Fresh Tomato Summer Pasta Sauce is the perfect way to enjoy the vibrant, natural flavors of fresh tomatoes. With minimal ingredients and simple preparation, it’s a quick, satisfying dish that showcases the best of summer produce. Whether served on its own or with added protein, it’s a flavorful and healthy meal that will become a regular in your recipe rotation.

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