AI-generated serving inspiration; not a photograph of a tested recipe.
A little starchy pasta water helps the tomato juices cling to the noodles. Add basil at the end so its aroma stays fresh, and finish each bowl with Parmesan rather than burying the sauce under cheese.
An original demonstration recipe, not independently kitchen-tested. Images are AI-generated serving inspiration, not photographs of tested recipes. Our editorial approach.
Why you’ll love this recipe
The sauce cooks alongside the pasta.
Fresh basil keeps the dish light.
Ingredient notes
Five main ingredients, excluding oil, salt, pepper, and cooking water.
Ripe cherry tomatoes supply the sweetness.
Equipment you’ll need
Pasta pot
Large skillet
Tongs
Helpful cooking tips
Reserve water before draining the pasta.
Do not brown the garlic; lower heat if it colors quickly.
Make it your own
Variations
Add drained white beans for more substance; they add an ingredient.
Substitutions
Use linguine instead of spaghetti.
What to serve with it
Serve with a simple green salad.
Storage, freezing & reheating
In the refrigerator
Divide leftovers into shallow containers and refrigerate within 2 hours (within 1 hour if above 90°F / 32°C). Keep at 40°F / 4°C or colder and use within 3–4 days.
In the freezer
Freeze cooled portions in sealed freezer containers for up to 2 months for best quality. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator.
To reheat
Reheat a single portion in the microwave, loosely covered, stirring or turning halfway through. Heat to 165°F / 74°C throughout; add a spoonful of water if needed.
Frequently asked questions
Can I use canned tomatoes?
Use one drained 14.5 oz can of diced tomatoes, saving a little juice to loosen the sauce. The flavor will be less fresh but still pleasant.
Let’s get cooking
Tomato Basil Pasta for Two
Cherry tomatoes soften into a light sauce for two generous bowls of spaghetti.
Prep time
10 min
Cook time
15 min
Total time
25 min
Servings
2
Difficulty
Easy
Cuisine
American home cooking
Original demonstration recipe, developed with AI assistance and not independently kitchen-tested.
Equipment
Pasta pot · Large skillet · Tongs
Ingredients
US customary measurements. Check off ingredients as you go.
Step-by-step instructions
Cook spaghetti in boiling water with 1/4 tsp salt according to package timing. Reserve 1/2 cup cooking water, then drain.
Meanwhile heat oil in a skillet over medium heat. Cook garlic for 30 seconds.
Add tomatoes, remaining salt, and pepper. Cook 7–9 minutes, stirring and gently pressing some tomatoes, until juicy.
Add spaghetti and 1/4 cup reserved water. Toss for 1 minute, adding more water if needed.
Remove from heat and fold in basil. Divide between two bowls and top with Parmesan.
Cook’s notes
Reserve water before draining the pasta.
Do not brown the garlic; lower heat if it colors quickly.
Store: Divide leftovers into shallow containers and refrigerate within 2 hours (within 1 hour if above 90°F / 32°C). Keep at 40°F / 4°C or colder and use within 3–4 days.
Reheat: Reheat a single portion in the microwave, loosely covered, stirring or turning halfway through. Heat to 165°F / 74°C throughout; add a spoonful of water if needed.
The Everyday Table · https://theeverydaytable.xyz/recipes/tomato-basil-pasta-for-two.php
A reliable food thermometer takes the guesswork out of cooking. Choose sturdy measuring cups and lidded, shallow containers for leftovers. Use the pan size listed in the recipe for the best fit.
