Spaghetti with tomatoes

Spaghetti with tomatoes is a vibrant dish featuring fresh tomatoes, spicy red chili peppers, and aromatic basil. This easy recipe combines al dente pasta with a savory tomato sauce, perfect for any meal.

28 Jan 2026
Cook time 15 min
Prep time 10 min

Ingredients:

16 oz pasta
4 tomatoes
1 cup olives
2 red hot chili peppers
1 cup scallions
1 cup basil leaves
1/4 cup olive oil

Spaghetti with tomatoes is a flavorful and easy-to-make dish that combines the freshness of tomatoes with the spicy kick of red hot chili peppers and the aromatic touch of basil. Whether you're looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a delightful weekend meal, this recipe is sure to satisfy your cravings.

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Ingredients:
- Dice the tomatoes into small, bite-sized pieces.
- Slice the olives and set aside.
- Finely chop the red hot chili peppers. Note: Adjust the quantity to suit your spice preference.
- Slice the scallions into thin rounds.
- Roughly chop the basil leaves.

2. Cook the Pasta:
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
- Add the pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente.
- Drain the pasta, reserving about 1/2 cup of the pasta water, and set aside.

3. Prepare the Sauce:
- In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
- Add the chopped chili peppers and sauté for about 2-3 minutes until they soften.
- Add the diced tomatoes and olives to the skillet, stirring to combine.
- Cook for about 5-7 minutes until the tomatoes begin to break down and create a sauce.
- Stir in the sliced scallions and cook for an additional 2 minutes.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.

4. Combine Pasta and Sauce:
- Add the cooked pasta directly into the skillet with the tomato mixture.
- Toss to combine, ensuring the pasta is evenly coated with the sauce.
- If the mixture seems too dry, add a little of the reserved pasta water until the desired consistency is reached.

5. Finish with Basil:
- Remove the skillet from heat and stir in the chopped basil leaves.
- Give the pasta one final toss to evenly distribute the basil.

6. Serve:
- Divide the spaghetti among serving plates.
- Drizzle with a little additional olive oil if desired.
- Garnish with extra basil leaves and a sprinkle of grated parmesan cheese, if you like.

7. Enjoy:
- Serve immediately and enjoy your delicious Spaghetti with Tomatoes!

Your spaghetti with tomatoes is now ready to be enjoyed. The combination of fresh ingredients and simple preparation make this dish a perfect go-to for any occasion. Serve it hot, garnished with extra basil leaves or a sprinkle of cheese if desired. Buon appetito!

Spaghetti with tomatoes FAQ:

How long do I cook the pasta for this recipe?

Cook the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. This typically takes about 8-12 minutes depending on the type of pasta used.

What can I use instead of fresh tomatoes?

You can substitute fresh tomatoes with canned diced tomatoes. Use about 14 oz of canned tomatoes to achieve a similar flavor and consistency.

How should I store leftovers of this dish?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet over medium heat or in the microwave until warmed through.

Can I adjust the spice level in this recipe?

Yes, you can adjust the spice level by reducing the number of chili peppers used or by removing the seeds for a milder flavor.

What pan size should I use for cooking the sauce?

Use a large skillet for cooking the sauce, preferably at least 12 inches in diameter, to ensure that the ingredients are evenly sautéed.

Tips:

- Use ripe tomatoes for the best flavor. You can also blanch and peel the tomatoes if you prefer a smoother sauce.

- Adjust the amount of chili peppers according to your spice tolerance. For a milder version, remove the seeds or use fewer peppers.

- To enhance the flavor, allow the sauce to simmer for an additional 10-15 minutes on low heat.

- If you prefer a richer sauce, add a splash of white wine or a tablespoon of tomato paste while cooking the tomatoes.

- Feel free to add other ingredients like capers or garlic to elevate the taste profile of this dish.

- Remember to reserve some pasta water before draining. Adding a little of the starchy water to the sauce can help it bind better to the spaghetti.

Nutrition per serving

4 Servings
Calories 520kcal
Protein 16g
Carbohydrates 100g
Fiber 7g
Sugar 8g
Fat 24g

Spaghetti with tomatoes