Description
Delicious Pasta Pomodoro is a classic Italian dish that combines al dente spaghetti with a fresh, flavorful tomato sauce made from cherry tomatoes, whole peeled tomatoes, garlic, and fresh basil. Enriched with creamy mozzarella and vibrant baby spinach, this easy-to-make pasta offers a perfect balance of freshness and comfort ideal for a wholesome family meal.
Ingredients
Scale
Pasta
- 12 ounces spaghetti
- 3 quarts water (for boiling)
- 1.5 tablespoons sea salt
Sauce
- 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, grated
- 0.25 teaspoon red pepper flakes
- 10 ounces cherry tomatoes, halved
- 28 ounces whole peeled tomatoes
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 0.125 teaspoon black pepper
- 15 leaves fresh basil
Additional Ingredients
- 1 cup fresh mozzarella balls
- 2 cups baby spinach
Instructions
- Boil the Pasta: Fill a large pot with 3 quarts of water, add 1½ tablespoons of sea salt, and bring it to a rolling boil. Add 12 ounces of spaghetti and cook until al dente, about 8-10 minutes. Drain the pasta and set aside.
- Heat the Olive Oil: In a large skillet over medium heat, warm 3 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil until hot but not smoking to prepare for sautéing.
- Sauté Garlic and Red Pepper Flakes: Add 2 cloves of grated garlic and ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes to the hot oil. Sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant but not browned.
- Cook Cherry Tomatoes: Add 10 ounces of halved cherry tomatoes to the skillet. Cook for 3-4 minutes until they start to soften and release their juices.
- Add Whole Peeled Tomatoes and Season: Stir in 28 ounces of whole peeled tomatoes, breaking them apart gently with your spoon. Season with 1 teaspoon salt and â…› teaspoon black pepper. Let the sauce simmer for 15-20 minutes to develop flavors.
- Combine Pasta and Fresh Ingredients: Add the drained spaghetti, 15 fresh basil leaves, 1 cup fresh mozzarella balls, and 2 cups baby spinach to the skillet with the sauce. Toss gently to combine all ingredients, allowing the spinach to wilt slightly and the mozzarella to soften.
Notes
- Use high-quality extra virgin olive oil for the best flavor.
- Adjust red pepper flakes to your preferred spice level.
- Make sure to gently break whole peeled tomatoes for a rustic texture in the sauce.
- Fresh basil is key for authentic aroma and taste.
- Serve immediately while the mozzarella is soft and melty.
