Easy Angel Hair Pasta With Tomato Basil Sauce

Name: Easy Angel Hair Pasta With Tomato Basil Sauce
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 8 oz angel hair pasta; 2 cups fresh tomatoes, diced; 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 3 tbsp olive oil; Salt and pepper to taste; Grated Parmesan cheese for serving (optional)

Highlighted under: Rapid Recipe Collection

I love whipping up a quick and delicious meal, and this Easy Angel Hair Pasta with Tomato Basil Sauce never disappoints. It's a perfect balance of fresh ingredients and vibrant flavors that come together in no time. With just a handful of ingredients, I can create a dish that feels gourmet yet is effortless to prepare. Whether it's a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this recipe brings a burst of freshness that is sure to impress any pasta lover at the table.

Created by

Isla Turner

Last updated on 2026-02-24T05:32:47.611Z

When I first tried making my own tomato basil sauce, I was amazed at how simple it was. By using fresh tomatoes and basil from my garden, the flavors were incredibly vibrant. I learned that sautéing garlic in olive oil first allows the aromatic flavors to infuse the oil, making the sauce come alive.

This dish became a staple for me because it's not only quick to make, but it also packs a healthy punch. Cooking the angel hair pasta just until al dente allows the noodles to hold onto the sauce beautifully, making every bite satisfying.

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Quick and easy preparation, perfect for busy weeknights
Bright, fresh flavors that highlight the best of summer ingredients
Light yet filling dish that's great for any occasion

Understanding Angel Hair Pasta

Angel hair pasta, or capellini, is known for its delicate strands that cook quickly, usually requiring only 3-4 minutes. Its thin texture allows for the sauce to cling beautifully, making every bite flavorful. When cooking, ensure your water is at a rolling boil before adding the pasta, as this helps prevent sticking. If overcooked, it can turn mushy, so keep an eye on it and taste a strand a minute before the recommended cooking time.

For best results, use high-quality pasta made from durum wheat, which gives better texture and holds the sauce better. If you have trouble finding angel hair, you can substitute it with other thin pasta varieties like vermicelli, but adjust the cooking time as necessary to achieve that perfect al dente bite.

The Importance of Fresh Ingredients

Using fresh tomatoes makes a significant difference in the flavor profile of this dish. Choose ripe, in-season tomatoes for the best sweetness and flavor. Varieties like Roma or vine-ripened tomatoes work beautifully here, yielding a juicy sauce that brightens the pasta. If you're short on time, you can use canned diced tomatoes, but opt for high-quality brands with minimal additives to maintain a fresh taste.

Fresh basil is essential for that aromatic and peppery lift in the sauce. When chopping basil, use a technique called chiffonade by stacking the leaves, rolling them tightly, and slicing thinly. This method prevents browning and bruising, ensuring your basil maintains its vibrant flavor. If you don’t have fresh basil, a teaspoon of dried basil can be used in a pinch, but the texture and aroma won't be quite the same.

Ingredients

Gather these simple ingredients to create a delightful pasta dish!

Ingredients

8 oz angel hair pasta
2 cups fresh tomatoes, diced
1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
3 tbsp olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste
Grated Parmesan cheese for serving (optional)

Feel free to customize the ingredients to suit your taste!

Instructions

Follow these easy steps to make your pasta from scratch:

Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the angel hair pasta and cook for 3-4 minutes until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Prepare the Sauce

In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant. Then, add the diced tomatoes and cook for 5-7 minutes until softened.

Combine and Serve

Stir in the fresh basil, and season with salt and pepper. Add the cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing to coat evenly. Serve with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.

Your delicious angel hair pasta is ready to be enjoyed!

Pro Tips

For an extra layer of flavor, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce while it cooks. This dish pairs beautifully with a side salad or garlic bread.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

This Easy Angel Hair Pasta can be prepped ahead by chopping tomatoes and basil. Store the fresh ingredients separately in airtight containers in the fridge for up to three days. When you’re ready to eat, just sauté the garlic, add the tomatoes and fresh basil, and cook the pasta for a quick meal. This keeps the flavors vibrant and fresh, while also saving you time during a busy weeknight.

If you have leftovers, store the pasta and sauce separately for better preservation. Place the pasta in an airtight container and cover the sauce with a lid to prevent moisture loss. Leftover pasta can be refrigerated for up to two days. To reheat, simply toss the pasta with a splash of olive oil in a skillet over low heat until warmed through. Add more fresh basil for a boost in flavor!

Serving Suggestions

Serving this pasta with a side of garlic bread or a fresh green salad elevates the meal. The bread can be toasted with a bit of olive oil and garlic for that extra touch of flavor. Alternatively, consider a simple arugula and cherry tomato salad with olive oil and lemon juice to complement the pasta's flavors without overwhelming them.

For a protein boost, you can easily add grilled chicken, shrimp, or cannellini beans on top of the pasta. If opting for shrimp, sauté them separately in the same skillet with a bit of olive oil before adding the cooked angel hair to the sauce. This variation not only enriches the dish but also makes it more filling, ideal for larger gatherings or heartier appetites.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use dried basil instead of fresh?

While fresh basil is recommended for the best flavor, you can use dried basil if that's what you have. Just use about one-third of the amount.

→ Can I make the sauce ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the sauce a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just reheat it on the stove before tossing it with the pasta.

→ What other vegetables can I add to the sauce?

Feel free to add zucchini, bell peppers, or spinach for a nutritious boost!

→ Is this recipe gluten-free?

To make it gluten-free, you can substitute the angel hair pasta with a gluten-free pasta alternative.