Are you ready to elevate your weeknight dinner with a dish that’s bursting with flavor and takes just 25 minutes to prepare? Say hello to our Simple Tomato Basil Pasta with Prosciutto! This Italian delight combines the sweetness of cherry tomatoes, the aromatic touch of fresh basil, and the savory richness of prosciutto, all tossed together with al dente spaghetti. Perfect for busy evenings or impressing guests with minimal effort, this recipe will have everyone asking for seconds. Dive into this culinary adventure and discover how easy it is to create a restaurant-quality meal right in your own kitchen!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 15 mins
Total Time: 25 mins
Cuisine: Italian
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 8 oz spaghetti
- 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
- 4 oz prosciutto, sliced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Begin by preparing all your ingredients. Halve the cherry tomatoes, chop the fresh basil, and mince the garlic. Slice the prosciutto into bite-sized pieces if not already done.
- In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Once boiling, add the spaghetti and cook according to package instructions until al dente, usually about 8-10 minutes.
- While the pasta is cooking, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute, or until fragrant, being careful not to let it burn.
- Add the halved cherry tomatoes to the skillet with the garlic. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the tomatoes have softened and released their juices.
- Once the spaghetti is cooked, reserve about 1/2 cup of the pasta cooking water, then drain the pasta. Add the drained spaghetti directly to the skillet with the tomatoes.
- Gently toss the spaghetti with the tomatoes and garlic, adding reserved pasta water a little at a time to help create a light sauce. You want the pasta to be well-coated but not swimming in liquid.
- Stir in the chopped fresh basil and sliced prosciutto, mixing until everything is evenly combined. Cook for an additional 1-2 minutes to heat through.
- Remove the skillet from heat and taste for seasoning, adjusting with more salt and pepper if necessary.
- Serve the pasta warm, garnished with extra basil if desired. Enjoy your Simple Tomato Basil Pasta with Prosciutto!
Tips
- Choose the Right Pasta: While spaghetti is traditional, feel free to experiment with other pasta shapes like penne or fusilli for a fun twist.
- Fresh Ingredients Matter: For the best flavor, use fresh cherry tomatoes and basil. They make a noticeable difference in the dish's overall taste.
- Don’t Overcook the Garlic: Sauté the garlic just until fragrant to avoid a bitter taste. Keep a close eye on it!
- Reserve Pasta Water: The starchy pasta water helps to create a silky sauce, so don’t forget to set some aside before draining the spaghetti.
- Adjust the Seasoning: Taste your dish before serving and adjust the salt and pepper to your liking. A pinch of red pepper flakes can also add a nice kick!
- Garnish for Presentation: A sprinkle of extra basil or a drizzle of olive oil before serving can make your dish look even more appetizing.
- Serve Immediately: This pasta is best enjoyed fresh, so serve it right after cooking for the ultimate taste experience.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 380kcal
Carbohydrates: 40g
Protein: 18g
Fat: 16g
Saturated Fat: 4g
Cholesterol: 30mg
