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Angel-Hair Pasta with Fresh Tomato Sauce

This vibrant angel hair pasta with fresh tomato sauce is the ultimate celebration of seasonal produce. By combining coarsely chopped tomatoes with naturally sweet grated pulp, you create a rustic, uncooked sauce that perfectly coats the delicate strands of capellini. The addition of aromatic basil and a hint of lemon juice provides a bright finish that elevates these simple pantry staples into a sophisticated vegetarian meal.

Ideal for warm evenings when you want a nutritious dinner without spending hours over a hot stove, this dish is both light and comforting. The quick-cooking pasta ensures it reaches the table in minutes, making it an excellent choice for a healthy midweek treat. Serve with a dusting of salty Parmigiano-Reggiano and your finest olive oil for a truly authentic taste of summer.

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Ingredients for Angel-Hair Pasta with Fresh Tomato Sauce

  • 1 small garlic clove

  • 1.4kg tomatoes

  • 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice

  • 1 teaspoon salt

  • 1 teaspoon sugar (optional)

  • 1/2 teaspoons black pepper

  • 450g dried capellini (angel-hair pasta)

  • 1/2 cup chopped fresh basil

  • Accompaniments: finely grated Parmigiano-Reggiano

  • extra-virgin olive oil for drizzling (optional)

How to make Angel-Hair Pasta with Fresh Tomato Sauce

Mince garlic and mash to a paste with a pinch of salt using a large heavy knife.

Core and coarsely chop two thirds of tomatoes. Halve remaining tomatoes crosswise, then rub cut sides of tomatoes against large holes of a box grater set in a large bowl, reserving pulp and discarding skin. Toss pulp with chopped tomatoes, garlic paste, lemon juice, salt, sugar (if using), and pepper. Let stand until ready to use, at least 10 minutes.

While tomatoes stand, cook pasta in a 6- to 8-quart pot of boiling salted water, uncovered, until al dente, about 2 minutes. Drain in a colander and immediately add to tomato mixture, tossing to combine. Sprinkle with basil.

Disclaimer

While every effort has been made to ensure the information is accurate and up to date, individual needs may vary and dietary requirements can differ based on personal health conditions. Always check food labels and allergen information before preparing or consuming any recipe. If you have specific health concerns, allergies, intolerances, or are following a medically prescribed diet, seek advice from your GP, pharmacist, or a registered dietitian before making significant changes to your diet or lifestyle.

Article history

The information on this page is peer reviewed by qualified clinicians.

  • 17 Jan 2026 | Originally published

    Authored by:

    UK recipe editors

    Peer reviewed by

    UK recipe editors
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