Garden-Fresh Tomato Basil Pasta

Ingredients

• 1 lb spaghetti or linguine
• 2 lbs fresh ripe tomatoes, diced
• 1 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/3 cup extra virgin olive oil
• 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• Red pepper flakes (optional)

Instructions

1. 1

   Prepare the pasta

   Bring a large pot of salted water to boil. Cook pasta according to package directions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.

2. 2

   Sauté the aromatics

   While pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.

3. 3

   Add tomatoes

   Add diced tomatoes to the skillet with salt and pepper. Cook for 5-7 minutes until tomatoes start to break down and release their juices.

4. 4

   Combine pasta and sauce

   Add drained pasta to the skillet with tomatoes. Toss to combine, adding pasta water as needed to create a silky sauce.

5. 5

   Finish and serve

   Remove from heat and stir in fresh basil and half the Parmesan cheese. Serve immediately with remaining cheese and red pepper flakes if desired.