Here is a classic pasta dish that highlights simplicity at its best. This Jamie Oliver Tomato & Basil Spaghetti Recipe makes the very best of Italian home cooking with sweet, ripe tomatoes, fresh basil and a good glug of extra-virgin olive oil. It takes no fancy technique — just good-quality ingredients, some patience and a love of honest, bright flavors.
Great for a blazingly fast midweek meal, a lazy weekend lunch, or a fancy-ish appetizer, this never goes amiss.
Key Takeaways
- This recipe showcases how simple, high-quality ingredients like ripe tomatoes and fresh basil can create a delicious meal.
- Perfect for any occasion, from a quick weeknight dinner to a more elaborate gathering, demonstrating versatility in home cooking.
- Easy to follow, this recipe encourages cooks to embrace the philosophy of “less is more” in their culinary endeavors.
Why You’ll Love It
This pasta is a perfect illustration of how very ordinary ingredients can combine to become something magical.
By way of wonderfully ripe tomatoes, plenty of fresh basil, and a proper seasoning of salt and pepper, you will lift a simple bowl of spaghetti into a bright, comforting, and entirely tasty feast.
It’s the perfect recipe to learn and revisit, again and again. Because, as you’ll find when you give this Jamie Oliver Tomato & Basil Spaghetti Recipe a try, sometimes, less is more.
Tomato & Basil Spaghetti Recipe by Jamie Oliver
Ingredients
- 400g quality dried spaghetti
- 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil, plus extra to finish
- 2 cloves of garlic, finely sliced
- 400g ripe cherry or plum tomatoes, halved
- A large handful of fresh basil leaves, torn
- Sea salt and freshly ground black pepper
- Optional: a small handful of grated Parmesan or pecorino cheese (for serving).
Instructions
Get the Pasta Going
- Put a big pan of salted water on to boil, then add your spaghetti. Cook according to packet instructions until al dente. This typically takes 8 to 10 minutes, but don’t be far away — your pasta should be al dente, not mushy.
Create the Sauce Base
- As the pasta cooks, warm the extra-virgin olive oil in a large, wide frying pan over medium heat. Add the sliced garlic and let it sizzle gently for a minute or so, until fragrant but not browned. The garlic should flavor the oil, giving it a mild aromatic punch.
Add the Tomatoes & Basil
- Tipin the halved tomatoes, season generously with salt and pepper. Cook gently for a few minutes until the tomatoes start to soften and release their juices. Stir in most of the torn basil leaves, saving some for garnishing, and let them wilt in the sauce. Adjust seasoning if needed, to taste. It’s the straightforwardness of flavors here that makes this Jamie Oliver Tomato & Basil Spaghetti recipe truly shine.
Combine & Finish
- Drain your spaghetti, retaining a bit of the starchy boiling water. Toss the pasta in the pan with the tomatoes and basil until each strand is well coated. If it seems a little dry, add a splash of the reserved cooking water and a drizzle of extra-virgin olive oil to bind everything together. Taste one last time, adjusting seasoning as desired.
Serve & Enjoy
- Portion the pasta among your plates, and sprinkle with a couple of fresh basil leaves, and (if you want) some grated cheese. Serve hot and enjoy the bright, fresh tastes of this Italian classic.
Nutritional Information per Serving
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Calories: ~350 kcal
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Protein: 8g
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Carbohydrates: 55g
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Sugars: 7g
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Fat: 12g
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Saturated Fat: 2g
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Fiber: 4g
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Salt: 1.5g
Types of Tomatoes for the Recipe
Before you start cooking, it’s imperative to choose the right type of tomatoes for your Jamie Oliver Tomato & Basil Spaghetti Recipe. Various tomatoes can enhance the dish’s flavor and texture:
| Type of Tomato | Description |
| Cherry Tomatoes | Sweet and juicy, ideal for fresh dishes. |
| Roma Tomatoes | Meaty and fewer seeds, excellent for sauces. |
| Heirloom Tomatoes | Unique flavors and colors, great for freshness. |
| San Marzano Tomatoes | Rich and tangy, perfect for tomato-based recipes. |
| Beefsteak Tomatoes | Large and juicy, suitable for hearty meals. |
Recognizing the right tomato type can elevate the quality of your sauce and ultimately your meal.
Ripe Tomatoes
You can’t go wrong with using ripe tomatoes in this recipe. Fresh, ripe tomatoes will provide a naturally sweet flavor and a vibrant color that highlights the dish’s simplicity. Look for tomatoes that are firm yet yield slightly to pressure for the best taste.
Canned Tomatoes
Canned tomatoes are a fantastic alternative when fresh tomatoes are out of season or unavailable. You’ll find that high-quality canned tomatoes can still deliver a rich flavor profile, making them an excellent option for your sauce.
With numerous varieties such as whole peeled, chopped, and san marzano canned tomatoes available, choosing wisely is imperative. Whole peeled tomatoes can be smashed for a rustic texture, while chopped tomatoes simplify the preparation process. Just ensure that you select organic or high-quality options to avoid additives or excess sodium, preserving the fresh flavor you desire.
Tips for Perfect Spaghetti
Some imperative tips can elevate your dish to perfection. Follow these guidelines to ensure a truly spectacular meal:
- Use high-quality ingredients for a richer flavor experience.
- Time your pasta cooking to achieve the ideal al dente texture.
- Season your sauce generously with salt and pepper to enhance the natural flavors.
- Incorporate fresh basil for aromatic depth.
After embracing these tips, you’ll consistently achieve a delightful spaghetti dish.
Cooking Al Dente
One key aspect of perfect spaghetti is cooking it until it’s al dente, which means “to the tooth.” This texture means the pasta is tender but still retains a slight firmness. Typically, you should boil your pasta for about 8 to 10 minutes, but check the instructions on the package for your specific variety. Taste a strand near the end of the cooking time to ensure it’s just right.
Seasoning Techniques
One effective way to enhance your spaghetti is by mastering the art of seasoning. Start by salting the water before adding your pasta; it’s your chance to flavor the noodles from within. Then, as you sauté your garlic and add the tomatoes, sprinkle in some salt and freshly ground pepper. This step draws out the tomatoes’ sweetness and brings depth to the dish.
Another important approach is to finish your pasta with a drizzle of extra-virgin olive oil and a touch of fresh basil. This not only enriches the flavor but also creates an inviting aroma. Stirring in grated cheese, like Parmigiano-Reggiano, can add a rich, savory note. Balance your seasonings well; too much can overpower the delicate ingredients, while too little may leave your dish bland. These techniques will ensure your spaghetti is bursting with flavor!
👨🍳 [DID YOU KNOW?] Interesting Facts about Tomato & Basil Spaghetti
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Simplicity at Its Best: This classic Italian dish proves that sometimes less is more. With just a few high-quality ingredients—ripe tomatoes, fresh basil, garlic, and good olive oil—you can create a flavorful, vibrant pasta that’s both comforting and light.
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Seasonality of Tomatoes: The recipe highlights the importance of using ripe, in-season tomatoes. When tomatoes are at their peak, they offer a rich, sweet flavor that’s far superior to out-of-season or canned alternatives.
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Basil’s Freshness: Fresh basil adds a fragrant, aromatic lift to the dish. It’s key in Italian cooking, offering a peppery and slightly sweet note that perfectly complements the tomatoes.
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Quick and Easy: Ready in about 20 minutes, this recipe is perfect for a fast, midweek meal or a weekend lunch. The method involves simple steps that allow the natural flavors of the ingredients to shine.
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Perfect Pasta Technique: The recipe emphasizes cooking the spaghetti to “al dente,” ensuring the pasta retains its firm texture and holds up well against the saucy, flavorful topping.
Factors to Consider
For an outstanding experience with your Jamie Oliver Tomato & Basil Spaghetti Recipe, there are several important factors to consider:
- Quality of ingredients
- Balance of flavors
- Cooking time
- Serving suggestions
Perceiving these elements will elevate your dish from ordinary to exceptional.
Quality of Ingredients
Ingredients play a pivotal role in the success of your dish. Fresh, ripe tomatoes and aromatic basil elevate the flavor profile, making your spaghetti not just a meal, but a delightful experience. Using high-quality, extra-virgin olive oil also contributes to the depth and richness of the sauce.
Balance of Flavors
Quality ingredients form the backbone of a flavorful dish. In this Tomato & Basil Spaghetti recipe, achieving a harmonious balance between the sweetness of tomatoes and the earthiness of basil is vital. Ensure you season properly with salt and pepper to enhance the dish’s brightness. Factors such as the ripeness of your tomatoes and the freshness of your herbs can greatly influence the overall taste. A well-balanced dish allows each flavor to shine without one overpowering another, creating an irresistibly delicious plate.
Serving Suggestions
Keep it simple yet elegant by serving your Jamie Oliver Tomato & Basil Spaghetti in large, shallow pasta bowls. This not only makes for a beautiful presentation but also allows you to enjoy every bit of the fresh flavors. Consider topping your dish with a sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan cheese and a drizzle of extra-virgin olive oil for an added touch of richness.
Pairing with Other Dishes
Suggestions for pairing your spaghetti include a crisp side salad with a light vinaigrette and garlic bread for that comforting Italian touch. You can also serve it alongside grilled vegetables or a simple roasted chicken to create a satisfying Mediterranean-inspired meal.
Presentation Ideas
While you focus on the taste, the presentation can elevate your dish. A neatly twirled serving of spaghetti topped with vibrant basil leaves and juicy, halved cherry tomatoes adds a lovely pop of color. You may also want to use a rustic wooden board as a serving platter, which gives a charming, homey feel. Consider garnishing with a few basil sprigs and a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for a bit of spice and visual appeal.
A well-presented plate makes all the difference in impressing your guests. Opt for contrasting colors by using white plates to highlight the vibrant reds and greens of your ingredients. You could even add a dash of balsamic reduction around the edge for an artistic flair. These small details not only enhance the visual interest but also enrich your dining experience.
Wine Pairing
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White Wine:
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Sauvignon Blanc: With its crisp acidity and citrus notes, this wine pairs well with the fresh basil and tomatoes, providing a refreshing contrast to the olive oil and pasta.
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Pinot Grigio: A light, dry white wine that complements the simplicity of the dish, allowing the fresh flavors of the tomatoes and basil to shine through.
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Red Wine:
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Chianti: A classic Italian red wine, Chianti’s moderate tannins and fruity profile work wonderfully with the richness of the tomatoes and the lightness of the pasta.
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Beer:
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Pilsner: The crispness of a pilsner enhances the freshness of the tomatoes and balances the richness of the olive oil and pasta.
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This straightforward yet flavorful dish showcases the beauty of fresh ingredients and offers easy-to-follow instructions for a delicious, satisfying meal!
Final Words
Upon reflecting on the Jamie Oliver Tomato & Basil Spaghetti Recipe, you can truly appreciate how a few high-quality ingredients can transform into a delightful dish. This recipe not only showcases the essence of Italian cooking but also encourages you to embrace simplicity in your culinary adventures. Whether it’s a quick meal or a special gathering, you’ll find that this spaghetti dish is adaptable and satisfying, perfect for any occasion to showcase your cooking skills.