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Imperfectly Simple Spaghetti with Tomato and Basil

This rustic spaghetti dish combines overripe tomatoes, wilted basil, and good olive oil to create a bright, comforting sauce. The method involves simmering tomatoes with garlic and tossing with al dente pasta, resulting in a dish that feels honest and effortlessly satisfying. Its final appearance is vibrant, with a glossy sauce clinging to the noodles and fragrant basil scattered on top.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 2
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 550
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 200 g spaghetti preferably bronze-cut for better sauce adhesion
  • 2 cups overripe tomatoes chopped or broken up with hands
  • 3 cloves garlic smash with the side of a knife
  • 1/4 cup fresh basil tear just before adding
  • 3 tbsp good olive oil fruity and peppery
  • to taste salt preferably kosher
  • a few cracks black pepper freshly cracked

Equipment

  • Large pot
  • Deep skillet or sauté pan
  • Wooden spoon
  • Sharp knife

Method
 

  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add the spaghetti and cook until just al dente, about 8–10 minutes. Drain, reserving a cup of pasta water.
  2. While the pasta cooks, heat the olive oil in a deep skillet over medium heat. Add the smashed garlic cloves and cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant, listening for a gentle sizzle.
  3. Add the chopped overripe tomatoes to the skillet. Let them simmer gently for 5–7 minutes, breaking them apart with the back of a spoon until they release their juices and become soft, creating a bright, bubbling sauce.
  4. Season the sauce with a pinch of salt and freshly cracked black pepper. Pour in a splash of the reserved pasta water to loosen the sauce and create a glossy finish. Stir gently to combine.
  5. Add the drained spaghetti directly into the skillet. Toss everything together over medium heat for 1–2 minutes, allowing the noodles to soak up the flavorful sauce.
  6. Remove the skillet from heat and tear in the fresh basil leaves, scattering them over the pasta. Toss gently to distribute their fragrant aroma throughout the dish.
  7. Drizzle a little more olive oil over the top if desired, then give the pasta a final toss. Serve immediately, garnished with extra basil if you like, and enjoy the bright, imperfect flavors.

Notes

This dish benefits from using overripe tomatoes and tearing basil just before adding to preserve aroma. Adjust seasoning to taste, and feel free to add a pinch of chili flakes for a spicy kick.