Tomato Basil Penne with Olive Oil Drizzle

Tomato Basil Penne with Olive Oil Drizzle is the perfect example of how simple ingredients can create a rich, comforting, and satisfying meal.

This dish celebrates the beauty of Italian cuisine — fresh ripe tomatoes, aromatic basil, and good-quality olive oil — all tossed with perfectly cooked penne pasta. The flavors are light yet bold, making it an ideal choice for both weekday dinners and special occasions.

Why I Love This Recipe

I love this recipe because it embodies simplicity done right. Every bite offers the freshness of tomatoes, the fragrance of basil, and the smooth, luxurious touch of olive oil.

It’s a recipe that’s both quick to make and deeply satisfying. Plus, it’s vegetarian-friendly, customizable, and pairs beautifully with garlic bread or a crisp green salad.

Why It’s a Must-Try Dish

This is a must-try dish for anyone who appreciates wholesome, home-cooked Italian flavors. It’s:

• Quick to prepare (ready in under 30 minutes!)
• Healthy, using olive oil instead of heavy sauces
• Perfect for meal prep or entertaining guests
• Deliciously comforting yet light enough for warm weather

Preparation and Cooking Time

• Preparation Time: 10 minutes
• Cooking Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes

Servings and Nutrition

• Servings: 4
• Calories per Serving: ~380 kcal

Cuisine and Course

• Cuisine: Italian
• Course: Main Course / Lunch / Dinner

Ingredients

For the Pasta:

• 300 g penne pasta
• 2 tbsp olive oil (for boiling pasta)
• Salt, to taste

For the Sauce:

• 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 cups ripe tomatoes, chopped (or 1 can diced tomatoes)
• ½ tsp red chili flakes (optional)
• ½ tsp sugar (to balance acidity)
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• 1 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped or torn
• 2 tbsp grated Parmesan cheese (optional)

For Drizzling:

• 2 tbsp high-quality extra virgin olive oil
• A few fresh basil leaves for garnish

Simple Cooking Directions

1. Cook the penne pasta until al dente.
2. Sauté garlic in olive oil.
3. Add tomatoes, season, and simmer into a simple sauce.
4. Toss in cooked pasta and fresh basil.
5. Serve with an olive oil drizzle and grated Parmesan.

Step-by-Step Recipe Preparation Method

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
2. Add penne pasta and a drizzle of olive oil.
3. Cook until al dente (about 10–12 minutes).
4. Drain and reserve ½ cup of pasta water. Set aside.

Step 2: Make the Tomato Sauce

1. In a large pan, heat 2 tbsp olive oil over medium heat.
2. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant (about 30 seconds).
3. Add chopped tomatoes, chili flakes, sugar, salt, and pepper.
4. Cook for 10–12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens slightly.

Step 3: Combine Pasta and Sauce

1. Add the cooked penne to the sauce.
2. Toss well to coat evenly. If the sauce seems too thick, add a splash of pasta water.
3. Stir in chopped basil and grated Parmesan cheese (if using).

Step 4: Finish and Serve

1. Transfer the pasta to serving bowls or a platter.
2. Drizzle with extra virgin olive oil.
3. Garnish with fresh basil leaves and additional cheese if desired.

How to Serve

• Serve hot as a main dish.
• Pair it with garlic bread, Caesar salad, or roasted vegetables.
• Add a sprinkle of crushed pepper or a squeeze of lemon for brightness.
• Enjoy with a glass of chilled white wine or sparkling water.

Additional Recipe Tips

• Use ripe, juicy tomatoes for the best flavor.
• Don’t overcook the pasta — al dente gives the best texture.
• Fresh basil adds vibrant flavor, but if unavailable, substitute with dried basil (1 tsp).
• Always finish with a drizzle of high-quality olive oil for that authentic Italian touch.

Variations

1. Creamy Tomato Basil Penne: Add ¼ cup of cream or mascarpone for a luscious texture.
2. Spicy Kick: Add more chili flakes or a pinch of cayenne pepper.
3. Protein Boost: Add grilled chicken, shrimp, or tofu.
4. Vegan Version: Skip cheese and use nutritional yeast for a nutty, cheesy flavor.
5. Roasted Tomato Version: Roast the tomatoes before adding them to the sauce for a deeper flavor.

Freezing and Storage

• Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: Freeze for up to 1 month in freezer-safe containers. Thaw in the refrigerator and reheat gently on the stove with a splash of water or olive oil.

Special Equipment Needed

• Large pot for boiling pasta
• Deep sauté pan or skillet
• Colander for draining pasta
• Wooden spoon for stirring

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: Can I use canned tomatoes instead of fresh?
Yes! Canned diced or crushed tomatoes work perfectly and save time.

Q2: What pasta shape works best if I don’t have penne?
You can use fusilli, rigatoni, or farfalle — any shape that holds sauce well.

Q3: Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the sauce ahead and refrigerate it. Just cook pasta fresh before serving.

Q4: Is it okay to use dried basil instead of fresh?
Yes, but fresh basil gives a more vibrant flavor. Use 1 tsp dried basil for every 1 tbsp fresh.

Q5: How can I make it gluten-free?
Use gluten-free penne or chickpea/lentil pasta instead of regular wheat pasta.

Conclusion

Tomato Basil Penne with Olive Oil Drizzle is a timeless Italian classic that celebrates freshness, flavor, and simplicity. With just a handful of ingredients, you can create a meal that’s vibrant, wholesome, and utterly delicious. Whether you’re cooking for family, guests, or yourself, this dish never disappoints — it’s light, aromatic, and comfortingly satisfying every single time.