Capellini Pomodoro: A Classic Italian Pasta Dish

Ingredients

  • 200 grams of capellini pasta
  • 4 ripe tomatoes
  • 2 cloves of garlic
  • 1 small bunch of fresh basil
  • 1/4 cup of extra virgin olive oil
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Grated Parmesan cheese for serving

Steps and instructions

  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
  2. Add the capellini pasta to the boiling water and cook according to the package instructions until al dente, then drain and set aside.
  3. While the pasta is cooking, chop the tomatoes into small cubes, mince the garlic, and finely chop the basil leaves.
  4. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat, then add the minced garlic and sauté until fragrant.
  5. Add the chopped tomatoes to the skillet, season with salt and pepper, and cook for about 5-7 minutes until the tomatoes are softened.
  6. Add the cooked capellini pasta and chopped basil to the skillet and toss until the pasta is well coated with the tomato mixture.
  7. Serve the Capellini Pomodoro hot, garnished with grated Parmesan cheese.

Tools for making

  • Large pot - Needed to boil the capellini pasta.
  • Skillet - Used to sauté the garlic and tomatoes.
  • Knife - Required for chopping the tomatoes, garlic, and basil.
  • Cutting board - Used as a surface for chopping the ingredients.
  • Colander - Needed to drain the cooked capellini pasta.
  • Grater - Used to grate Parmesan cheese for garnishing.
  • Spoon or tongs - Required for tossing the pasta in the skillet.

Recipe variations

  • Add cooked shrimp or grilled chicken for a protein boost.
  • Replace capellini pasta with spaghetti or linguine.
  • Include some red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.
  • Add sautéed mushrooms or roasted cherry tomatoes for extra flavor.
  • Try using whole wheat or gluten-free pasta for a healthier option.
  • For a creamy twist, stir in a couple of tablespoons of heavy cream or coconut milk.
  • Add some chopped olives or capers for a briny taste.
  • Experiment with different herbs like thyme or oregano.
  • For a vegan version, omit the Parmesan cheese or use a vegan cheese alternative.
  • Try garnishing with fresh parsley or a drizzle of balsamic glaze.

Recipe overview

Capellini Pomodoro is a classic Italian dish that's simple, flavorful, and the perfect choice for a quick weeknight dinner. Made with just a few fresh ingredients like ripe tomatoes, garlic, fresh basil, and thin capellini pasta, this delicious meal embodies the essence of Italian cuisine. The pasta is lightly coated in a vibrant tomato sauce infused with garlic and basil, then topped with a sprinkling of Parmesan cheese for an extra touch of richness. You'll love the balance of flavors in this dish and how the delicate pasta perfectly complements the robust tomato sauce. In less than 30 minutes, you can have this savory, satisfying meal on your table. Enjoy the process of preparing this traditional Italian dish, and bon appétit!

Common questions

  1. Can I use a different type of pasta? Yes, you can use other types of pasta like spaghetti or linguine if you prefer.
  2. Can I use canned tomatoes instead of fresh tomatoes? While fresh tomatoes are recommended for the best flavor, you can use canned tomatoes as a substitute if fresh tomatoes are not available. Just make sure to drain the excess liquid before adding them to the skillet.
  3. Do I have to use fresh basil? Fresh basil adds a wonderful flavor to the dish, but if you don't have any, you can substitute with dried basil. Use about 1 teaspoon of dried basil as a replacement for the fresh basil.
  4. Can I add other ingredients like vegetables or protein? Absolutely! Capellini Pomodoro is versatile, and you can add sautéed vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini, or even cooked shrimp or grilled chicken for added flavor and protein.
  5. Can I make this recipe ahead of time? Capellini Pomodoro is best enjoyed fresh, but you can make the tomato sauce ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator. Cook the pasta just before serving and toss it with the reheated tomato sauce.
  6. Can I adjust the amount of garlic or spices? Yes, feel free to adjust the amount of garlic, salt, and pepper according to your taste preferences. Start with the recommended amounts and adjust as needed.
  7. Is this recipe suitable for vegetarians? Yes, Capellini Pomodoro is vegetarian-friendly as it does not contain any meat or meat-based ingredients. Just make sure to check that the cheese you use for garnishing is suitable for vegetarians if necessary.

Serving dishes and utensils

Origin stories

Capellini Pomodoro is a classic Italian dish hailing from the beautiful, sun-drenched regions of Southern Italy. The word "pomodoro" is Italian for tomato, which indicates the simplicity and freshness of this dish. Its origins lie in the Italian tradition of "cucina povera", or “poor kitchen”, where common and inexpensive ingredients were used to create hearty, comforting meals. The dish is particularly popular during the summertime when tomatoes are at their ripest and basil is plentiful. And while it may seem like a humble dish, its flavorful simplicity is a testament to the Italian philosophy of cooking - using quality ingredients and allowing them to shine.

Disclaimer: This recipe was not created by humans and we cannot ensure that it will turn out as expected. We do not guarantee or take any liability for the accuracy of this recipe (including steps, ingredients, nutritional information, and all sections on this page). You should check to make sure you are not allergic to any ingredients and take safety precautions while making this. The images on this page are generated by AI and may not accurately represent the result of making this recipe.