Tender, silky ribbons of homemade pasta coated in a rich, vibrant tomato sauce — this Fresh Pasta with Tomato Sauce is the definition of simple pleasures. It’s a dish that reminds you how just a few good ingredients, treated with care, can create pure magic on the plate.
With just a few fresh ingredients and a little love, this classic dish transforms into something extraordinary, reminding you how comforting and satisfying real Italian cooking can be. If you love cozy, rustic meals with deep flavor, you might also enjoy our Mushroom Risotto, another classic that turns simplicity into pure comfort.
Perfect for everyday dinners, cozy date nights, or sharing with friends, this pasta is pure, rustic comfort on a plate. And if you’re looking for a light, colorful side to serve alongside, our Greek Salad with Feta Cheese is the perfect refreshing match.
Recipe Summary
Prep Time: 40 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 55 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Difficulty: Moderate
Ingredients
For the Fresh Pasta:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour (250g)
- 3 large eggs
- ½ teaspoon salt
For the Tomato Sauce:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil (30ml)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can crushed tomatoes (400g)
- 1 teaspoon sugar (optional, to balance acidity)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- Fresh basil leaves, torn
- Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving
Instructions
- Make the Pasta:
On a clean surface, mound the flour and make a well in the center.
Crack the eggs into the well and add salt.
Gradually mix, pulling flour into the eggs, until a dough forms. - Knead the dough for about 8–10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
Wrap in plastic wrap and let rest for 30 minutes. - Roll out the dough using a pasta machine or rolling pin until thin.
Cut into spaghetti or tagliatelle shapes. - Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
Cook fresh pasta for 2–3 minutes until al dente.
Drain and set aside. - Make the Sauce:
Heat olive oil in a pan over medium heat.
Sauté garlic until fragrant but not browned. - Add crushed tomatoes.
Season with salt, pepper, and sugar if needed.
Simmer for 10 minutes until slightly thickened. - Toss the fresh pasta with the sauce.
Top with torn basil and plenty of Parmesan before serving.
Notes
Fresh pasta cooks much faster than dried — keep an eye on it. Let the dough rest before rolling for better elasticity. Balance the tomato sauce with a little sugar if it tastes too acidic.
Variations & Add-ons
Add a splash of cream to the tomato sauce for a richer version. Stir in sautéed mushrooms or spinach for extra flavor. Toss in chili flakes if you like a little heat.
Nutrition Information (Per Serving)
- Calories: 430 kcal
- Carbohydrates: 55g
- Protein: 15g
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Cholesterol: 140mg
- Sodium: 350mg
- Fiber: 3g
- Sugar: 6g
Background Story
Pasta is one of the oldest and most beloved staples of Italian cuisine, with roots dating back centuries to the early Mediterranean kitchens.
Making fresh pasta by hand remains a cherished tradition across Italy — a ritual that brings families together around flour-dusted tables.
The beauty of Fresh Pasta with Tomato Sauce lies in its simplicity: just flour, eggs, tomatoes, olive oil, and a few herbs.
No elaborate ingredients, no complicated techniques — just pure, rustic joy.
It’s a dish that captures the heart of Italian cooking: honoring fresh ingredients, treating them with care, and sharing a meal made with love.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this fresh pasta with a sprinkle of extra Parmesan, a side of crusty bread, and a crisp green salad.
Pair it with a glass of Chianti or a light Pinot Noir for an authentic Italian touch.
FAQs About Fresh Pasta with Tomato Sauce
Can I make the pasta dough ahead of time?
Yes — refrigerate the dough tightly wrapped for up to 24 hours before rolling and cutting.
Can I freeze fresh pasta?
Absolutely.
Dust with flour, lay in nests, freeze on a tray, then transfer to a bag for storage.
How do I know when fresh pasta is cooked?
It’s done when it floats to the surface and still has a slight bite — usually just 2–3 minutes.
Can I use store-bought fresh pasta?
Yes — if you’re short on time, good-quality store-bought fresh pasta works beautifully with this sauce.
Can I add meat to the tomato sauce?
Of course — browned ground beef or Italian sausage would be delicious!
Final Thoughts
Bright, fresh, and utterly satisfying, this Fresh Pasta with Tomato Sauce brings timeless Italian flavor to your table with simple ingredients and lots of love.
Rustic, comforting, and perfect every time.
