A light and flavorful Italian classic, Capellini al Pomodoro features delicate angel hair pasta tossed in a fresh tomato sauce with garlic, basil, and Parmesan. This simple yet elegant dish captures the essence of Mediterranean cuisine, using fresh ingredients to create a comforting and satisfying meal.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick & Easy – Ready in just 25 minutes, making it perfect for a weeknight dinner.
- Fresh & Light – Uses simple, wholesome ingredients for a flavorful yet light pasta dish.
- Perfect Balance of Flavors – The sweetness of cherry tomatoes, garlic-infused olive oil, and salty Parmesan create a beautifully balanced dish.
- Versatile & Customizable – Add protein, extra veggies, or spice to make it your own.
- Authentic Italian Simplicity – A true representation of “less is more” in Italian cooking.
Ingredients
(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
For the Pasta:
- 8 oz capellini (angel hair) pasta
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- ½ cup pasta water (reserved)
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- ¼ cup fresh basil, thinly sliced
Directions
1. Cook the Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook capellini according to package instructions until al dente (usually 3-4 minutes). Reserve ½ cup of pasta water, then drain and set aside.
2. Sauté the Garlic & Tomatoes
In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat.
- Add minced garlic and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant (be careful not to burn it).
- Stir in halved cherry tomatoes, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using).
- Cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the tomatoes soften and release their juices.
3. Combine with Pasta
Add the cooked capellini to the skillet along with reserved pasta water. Toss well to coat the pasta in the fresh tomato sauce, allowing the flavors to meld.
4. Finish & Serve
Remove from heat and stir in grated Parmesan cheese. Plate and garnish with fresh basil. Serve immediately while warm and enjoy!
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 2
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cooking Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Calories per Serving: 420 kcal
Variations
- Make It Creamy – Stir in a splash of heavy cream or burrata cheese for extra richness.
- Protein Boost – Add grilled chicken, shrimp, or Italian sausage for a heartier meal.
- Spicy Version – Increase red pepper flakes or add Calabrian chili paste for extra heat.
- Gluten-Free Option – Use gluten-free pasta for a celiac-friendly dish.
- Vegan-Friendly – Omit Parmesan or substitute with nutritional yeast for a dairy-free version.
Storage & Reheating
- Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Reheating: Warm gently in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of water or olive oil to loosen the sauce.
- Freezing: Not recommended, as the fresh tomatoes and delicate pasta may become mushy when thawed.
FAQs
1. What makes capellini different from spaghetti?
Capellini (angel hair) is thinner and more delicate than spaghetti, cooking much faster and absorbing sauces more easily.
2. Can I use canned tomatoes instead of fresh?
Yes! Crushed San Marzano tomatoes can be used for a richer, deeper flavor. Simmer longer for best results.
3. How do I prevent the garlic from burning?
Cook garlic over medium heat and stir constantly. If it starts browning too quickly, lower the heat and add a splash of water.
4. What’s the best Parmesan for this dish?
Use freshly grated Parmigiano-Reggiano for the best flavor and texture.
5. Can I make this dish ahead of time?
It’s best served fresh, but you can prepare the sauce ahead and reheat before tossing with pasta.
6. What’s the best olive oil to use?
Use extra virgin olive oil for the best flavor and authenticity.
7. Can I add wine to the sauce?
Yes! Deglaze the pan with ¼ cup white wine after sautéing garlic for extra depth of flavor.
8. What’s the best side dish for this pasta?
Serve with garlic bread, a simple green salad, or roasted vegetables.
9. Can I use dried basil instead of fresh?
Fresh basil is best, but if using dried, reduce the amount to 1 teaspoon.
10. What other cheeses work well in this dish?
Try pecorino romano, mozzarella, or ricotta for different flavors and textures.
Conclusion
Capellini al Pomodoro is the perfect light yet satisfying Italian pasta dish, bursting with fresh tomato flavor, aromatic garlic, and fragrant basil. Whether you’re making a quick weeknight meal or an elegant dinner, this simple and authentic recipe will always impress. Try it today and experience the magic of classic Italian cooking!
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Capellini al Pomodoro
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 2 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A light and flavorful Italian classic, featuring delicate capellini pasta tossed in a fresh tomato sauce with garlic, basil, and Parmesan—a simple yet elegant dish perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
- 8 oz capellini (angel hair) pasta
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1/2 cup pasta water (reserved)
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup fresh basil, thinly sliced
Instructions
-
Cook the Pasta
- Bring a pot of salted water to a boil.
- Cook capellini according to package instructions until al dente.
- Reserve ½ cup pasta water, then drain.
-
Sauté the Garlic & Tomatoes
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat.
- Add garlic and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Stir in cherry tomatoes, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes.
- Cook for 5-7 minutes, until the tomatoes soften and release their juices.
-
Combine with Pasta
- Add the cooked pasta to the skillet along with reserved pasta water.
- Toss well to coat the noodles in the tomato sauce.
-
Finish & Serve
- Remove from heat and stir in Parmesan cheese.
- Plate and garnish with fresh basil.
- Serve immediately and enjoy!
Notes
- For Extra Flavor: Add a splash of balsamic vinegar or a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil before serving.
- Make It Vegan: Omit the Parmesan or substitute with nutritional yeast.
- Add Protein: Serve with grilled chicken, shrimp, or tofu for a heartier meal.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Sautéing
- Cuisine: Italian