Heirloom Tomato Pasta Balsamic (Printable)

Summery pasta with tomatoes, basil, and balsamic pearls—fresh, vibrant, and vegetarian Italian main.

# Components:

→ Pasta

01 - 13 ounces dried spaghetti or linguine
02 - 1 tablespoon coarse sea salt (for pasta water)

→ Sauce

03 - 21 ounces mixed heirloom tomatoes, diced
04 - 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
05 - 3 garlic cloves, thinly sliced
06 - 1 small red onion, finely chopped
07 - 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
08 - 1/2 teaspoon sea salt
09 - Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
10 - 1/2 cup fresh basil leaves, torn

→ Garnish

11 - 2 tablespoons aged balsamic pearls
12 - 2 ounces Parmigiano-Reggiano, shaved (optional)
13 - Additional fresh basil leaves

# Directions:

01 - Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Cook the pasta until al dente, following package directions. Reserve 1/2 cup of the pasta cooking water, then drain the pasta.
02 - While the pasta is cooking, heat the extra virgin olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the thinly sliced garlic and finely chopped red onion. Sauté for 2 to 3 minutes until fragrant and translucent.
03 - Introduce the diced heirloom tomatoes, sea salt, freshly ground black pepper, and crushed red pepper flakes (if using) to the skillet. Cook for 7 to 8 minutes, stirring gently, until the tomatoes have softened but still retain some structural integrity.
04 - Add the drained pasta to the skillet with the cooked tomatoes. Toss to ensure an even coating. Incorporate the reserved pasta water, adding it a little at a time, until a silky sauce consistency is achieved.
05 - Remove the skillet from the heat. Stir in the torn fresh basil leaves until just wilted.
06 - Portion the pasta equally among serving plates. Crown each serving with aged balsamic pearls, shaved Parmigiano-Reggiano (if using), and additional fresh basil leaves.
07 - Present the dish immediately.

# Expert Advice:

01 -
  • Ready in just 40 minutes from start to finish
  • Uses simple techniques but creates restaurant quality results
  • Showcases the natural sweetness of peak season heirloom tomatoes
  • Creates a silky sauce without heavy cream
02 -
  • This dish showcases tomatoes at their peak so timing is everything make it in August or September
  • The sauce is intentionally light to let the tomato flavor shine
  • Reserved pasta water contains starch that helps the sauce cling to the pasta
03 -
  • Always reserve some pasta cooking water before draining. The starchy liquid is essential for creating a silky sauce that clings to every strand.
  • When working with heirloom tomatoes, use a serrated knife for cleaner cuts that preserve their delicate flesh structure.
  • For maximum visual impact, serve this pasta in white bowls or plates that showcase the vibrant colors of the tomatoes and balsamic pearls.

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