Spaghetti al Pomodoro Crudo: A Fresh and Flavorful Italian Delight

From my own personal experience, there’s nothing quite like a simple yet delicious plate of Spaghetti al Pomodoro Crudo. This refreshing dish highlights the vibrant flavors of fresh tomatoes and basil, making it a perfect summer meal. With just a few ingredients, you can create a stunning dish that bursts with flavor.

Let me show you how I make this classic Italian dish, and I promise it will become a go-to in your recipe repertoire.

Notes on What to Expect

When making Spaghetti al Pomodoro Crudo, expect a light and refreshing dish that is bursting with the flavors of fresh tomatoes and basil. The simplicity of the ingredients allows each flavor to shine, making this dish a perfect representation of Italian cuisine.

Recipe Overview

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 0 minutes
• Time to Stand: 0 minutes
• Total Time: 15 minutes
• Ease of Cooking: Easy
• Servings: 4
• Calories: Approximately 400 per serving
• Cost of Ingredients: Around $10 (prices may vary)
• Cuisine: Italian
• Course: Main Course
• Equipment Needed: Large pot, colander, mixing bowl, wooden spoon
• Go here to buy the must-have equipment and ingredients for creating a Savory  #Spaghetti al Pomodoro Crudo  here.

Ingredients

• 400g (14 oz) spaghetti (or your preferred pasta)
• 500g (1 lb) ripe tomatoes, preferably heirloom or Roma
• 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• Fresh basil leaves, to taste
• Salt, to taste
• Freshly cracked black pepper, to taste
• Parmesan cheese, grated (optional, for serving)
• Go here to buy the must-have equipment and ingredients for creating a Savory  #Spaghetti al Pomodoro Crudo  here.

Instructions

1. Cook the Spaghetti:
   • Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the spaghetti and cook according to package instructions until al dente (usually around 8-10 minutes).
   • Tip: Save about 1 cup of the pasta cooking water before draining. This can help adjust the sauce later if needed.
2. Prepare the Tomato Sauce:
   • While the pasta cooks, wash and chop the ripe tomatoes into small cubes. If you prefer a smoother sauce, you can peel and deseed the tomatoes before chopping.
   • In a large mixing bowl, combine the chopped tomatoes, minced garlic, olive oil, salt, and black pepper. Let the mixture sit for about 10 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld and the tomatoes to release their juices.
3. Combine Pasta and Sauce:
   • Once the pasta is cooked and drained, add it directly to the bowl with the tomato mixture.
   • Tip: If the sauce seems too thick, gradually add a bit of the reserved pasta water until you reach your desired consistency.
4. Add Fresh Basil:
   • Tear the fresh basil leaves and toss them in with the pasta. Mix gently until everything is combined and the spaghetti is well coated in the fresh sauce.
5. Serve:
   • Plate the spaghetti, and if desired, top with grated Parmesan cheese and additional fresh basil. Enjoy your fresh and vibrant dish!

Variations

• Gluten-Free: Substitute regular spaghetti with gluten-free pasta.
• Vegan: This dish is naturally vegan; just skip the Parmesan cheese or use a plant-based alternative.
• Add Protein: Include grilled chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas for added protein.
• Go here to buy the must-have equipment and ingredients for creating a Savory  #Spaghetti al Pomodoro Crudo  here.

Tips and Substitutions

• Tomatoes: Use the ripest tomatoes you can find for the best flavor. If fresh tomatoes are out of season, you can substitute with high-quality canned San Marzano tomatoes.
• Herbs: Feel free to mix in other fresh herbs like parsley or oregano for added flavor.
• Olive Oil: Use high-quality extra virgin olive oil for the best taste.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

• Calories: 400
• Total Fat: 12g
• Saturated Fat: 2g
• Cholesterol: 5mg
• Sodium: 300mg
• Carbohydrates: 60g
• Dietary Fiber: 4g
• Sugars: 3g
• Protein: 10g

Closing Thoughts

I hope this guide has made making Spaghetti al Pomodoro Crudo seem a little less daunting! Have you tried it before? Please, be honest, and let me know in the comments below. I love to hear feedback from a real person like you, so please, leave your honest comment! Enjoy your culinary adventure!