Pasta Pomodoro (With Balsamic Chimichurri)
A classic pasta pomodoro made with San Marzano tomatoes, garlic, and basil — finished with a tangy balsamic chimichurri twist.
Servings: 4
Ingredients
Pomodoro Sauce
- 3 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
- 2 tbsp chopped garlic
- 1 can whole peeled San Marzano tomatoes (12 ounces)
- A small handful of fresh basil leaves
- Salt and Black pepper to taste
- 1/2 tsp sugar (optional, to balance tartness)
- Parmesan cheese (for serving)
Balsamic Chimichurri
- 1 cup parsley leaves (loosely packed)
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 2 garlic cloves
- 1 tbsp balsamic vinegar
- Salt and pepper to taste
Other
- 7 ounces pasta (spaghetti, bucatini, or pasta of choice)
Instructions
- Sauté the garlic: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add chopped garlic and cook until fragrant and lightly golden, about 1–2 minutes.
- Add tomatoes: Pour in the San Marzano tomatoes with their juices. Crush them with a spoon or masher directly in the pan. Season with salt and pepper.
- Simmer the sauce: Let the tomatoes cook uncovered for 20–25 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens and reduces slightly. Taste and adjust with a pinch of sugar if the tomatoes are too tart.
- Cook the pasta: While the sauce simmers, cook pasta in salted boiling water until just shy of al dente. Reserve about 1 cup of pasta water.
- Finish the sauce: Stir in basil leaves. Add the cooked pasta directly to the skillet with the sauce, tossing with splashes of pasta water until the noodles are coated and glossy.
- Top with chimichurri: Serve hot, garnished with Parmesan cheese and a light drizzle of of balsamic chimichurri over each bowl.
Notes
Freezing: The sauce (without pasta) can be frozen for up to 2 months. Thaw and reheat before tossing with fresh pasta.
Substitutions: Swap Parmesan for Pecorino Romano, or use whole wheat pasta for more fiber.
Ingredient Tip: Always use San Marzano tomatoes for the best flavor and texture — it makes all the difference.
Nutrition
Calories: 433kcal | Carbohydrates: 45g | Protein: 8g | Fat: 25g | Saturated Fat: 3g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 3g | Monounsaturated Fat: 18g | Sodium: 161mg | Potassium: 414mg | Fiber: 3g | Sugar: 5g | Vitamin A: 1384IU | Vitamin C: 31mg | Calcium: 74mg | Iron: 3mg
