Description: Brighten your dinner with this refreshing Lemon Tomato Basil Pasta featuring zesty citrus and juicy roasted tomatoes. Perfect for a Lemon Basil Pasta Dinner or a quick One-pot Lemon Basil Pasta night—simple, fresh, and full of flavor.
Few dishes capture the taste of summer like Lemon Pasta with Basil and Roasted Tomatoes. The combination of tangy lemon, sweet roasted tomatoes, and aromatic basil brings a balance of freshness and comfort to every forkful. This recipe delivers vibrant color and bold flavor with ingredients you may already have in your kitchen. In this article, you’ll discover how to make this heartwarming Lemon Basil Pasta Dinner, learn simple preparation tips, and find answers to common questions about variations and storage. Whether you call it Roasted Tomato Basil Pasta or Lemon Tomato Pasta, one thing is sure—it’s pure satisfaction in a bowl.
A Summer Memory in a Bowl
One of my favorite memories of summer cooking begins with a tray of ripe cherry tomatoes roasting in the oven. The air fills with their caramelized aroma, mingling with the zest of freshly grated lemon peel and the crisp sweetness of torn basil leaves. That was the day I discovered how beautifully Lemon Pasta with Basil and Roasted Tomatoes could transform a simple meal into a sensory experience.
It started as a spur-of-the-moment idea—looking for an easy dinner that felt both light and comforting. The burst of acidity from the lemon brightened the savory sweetness of the roasted tomatoes, while the basil added its familiar, garden-fresh perfume. This combination quickly became our go-to dish for family dinners outdoors, where warm breezes and clinking forks turned an ordinary weeknight into something special. Whether you’re cooking for two or for a table full of guests, this Lemon Tomato Pasta captures the essence of summer: easy, breezy, and effortlessly delicious.
What makes this Lemon Basil Pasta Dinner remarkable is how elegantly it balances citrus brightness with roasted depth. The roasted tomatoes bring natural sweetness, the lemon lends a punch of acidity, and the basil ties everything together with its gentle herbal warmth. In one simple plate, you get contrast and harmony—a lively dish that feels gourmet, yet takes minimal effort.
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Lemon Pasta with Basil and Roasted Tomatoes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
A bright and flavorful pasta dish combining zesty lemon, caramelized roasted tomatoes, and fresh basil, finished with Parmesan for a light yet satisfying meal.
Ingredients
Instructions
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Place halved tomatoes on a baking sheet, drizzle with 1 tbsp olive oil, season with salt and pepper, and roast for 20–25 minutes until caramelized.
3. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook pasta until al dente according to package instructions, reserve 1 cup pasta water, then drain.
4. In a large skillet, heat remaining 2 tbsp olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and cook until fragrant, about 30 seconds.
5. Pour lemon juice and 1/4 cup reserved pasta water into the skillet, stir to combine.
6. Add drained pasta to the skillet and toss to coat with the lemon-garlic sauce.
7. Fold in roasted tomatoes and chopped basil, adding more reserved pasta water as needed to achieve a silky sauce.
8. Remove from heat and sprinkle with lemon zest and Parmesan cheese. Toss gently to combine.
9. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper, then serve immediately.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: main course
- Method: roasting and sautéing
- Cuisine: italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 6
- Sodium: 300
- Fat: 12
- Saturated Fat: 3
- Unsaturated Fat: 8
- Trans Fat: 0
- Carbohydrates: 50
- Fiber: 3
- Protein: 10
- Cholesterol: 10
Keywords: lemon pasta, roasted tomatoes, basil pasta, lemon basil pasta, tomato basil pasta, summer pasta, one-pot pasta
Why This Lemon Basil Pasta Dinner Wins Every Time
It’s remarkably adaptable. Serve it warm for a comforting evening meal, or chill it slightly for a refreshing summer lunch. Transform it into a One-Pot Lemon Basil Pasta by tossing everything together in a single pan, saving time and cleanup. For those who love variety, this Roasted Tomato Basil Pasta pairs beautifully with grilled chicken, a sprinkle of chili flakes for heat, or even a handful of arugula for an extra layer of freshness.
This pasta stands out because it celebrates simplicity: bright lemon, roasted tomato sweetness, and aromatic basil—a trio that never fails to impress. It’s a perfect choice for cozy weeknights, festive gatherings, or any time you crave something that tastes like sunshine itself.
Ingredients and Tools for the Perfect Lemon Tomato Basil Pasta
Fresh and Flavorful Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of Lemon Pasta with Basil and Roasted Tomatoes lies in its simplicity. The ingredients are easy to find, yet together they create a dish bursting with restaurant-level flavor. For this recipe, freshness is key—bright lemons, aromatic basil, and juicy tomatoes come together beautifully in every bite. If you’re looking to expand your repertoire of Lemon Basil Pasta Recipes, this one will quickly become a favorite.
| Ingredient | Measurement | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Spaghetti or linguine | 12 oz | Use your preferred pasta shape |
| Cherry or grape tomatoes | 2 cups | Halved for roasting |
| Fresh basil leaves | 1 cup | Roughly chopped |
| Lemon juice | 3 tbsp | Freshly squeezed |
| Lemon zest | 1 tsp | For garnish |
| Olive oil | 3 tbsp | Extra virgin preferred |
| Garlic | 3 cloves | Minced |
| Parmesan cheese | ½ cup | Grated |
| Salt | To taste | |
| Pepper | To taste | Freshly ground |
Ingredient Highlights
- Lemons: Freshly squeezed juice and zest provide the zippy tang that defines this Lemon Pasta with Basil and Roasted Tomatoes.
- Tomatoes: Roasting cherry or grape tomatoes intensifies their natural sweetness, making them the star of this Roasted Tomato Basil Pasta.
- Fresh Basil: Basil lends a peppery-sweet flavor that softens the lemon’s acidity.
- Olive Oil & Garlic: The foundation for the sauce—fragrant, simple, and deeply satisfying.
- Parmesan: Adds savory depth and a smooth finish to the pasta.
Every ingredient plays its part in building the ideal Lemon Tomato Pasta—a recipe that tastes indulgent while remaining light and wholesome.
Tools and Equipment That Make Cooking Easier
- Large Pot: Ensures the pasta cooks evenly for a perfect al dente texture.
- Roasting Pan or Baking Sheet: Ideal for caramelizing the tomatoes and drawing out their sweetness.
- Microplane or Zester: Captures fragrant lemon oils for that signature aroma.
- Skillet or Sauté Pan: Where all flavors marry together before serving.
- Strainer or Colander: Quick draining while saving some pasta water for the sauce.
- Mixing Tongs: Perfect for tossing the pasta evenly with the lemony sauce.
Having these tools ready makes preparing a Lemon Basil Pasta Dinner smooth and enjoyable—whether you’re cooking a personal meal or feeding a crowd.
How to Make Lemon Pasta with Basil and Roasted Tomatoes
Step-by-Step Recipe Instructions
- Roast the Tomatoes Until Caramelized: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Spread halved cherry or grape tomatoes on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Drizzle with olive oil, season with salt and pepper, and roast for 20–25 minutes until caramelized.
- Cook the Pasta Al Dente: Boil pasta in salted water until al dente. Reserve one cup of pasta water before draining; it helps emulsify the sauce for your Lemon Tomato Pasta.
- Sauté the Garlic and Make the Lemon Sauce: In a skillet, heat olive oil, sauté minced garlic briefly, then stir in lemon juice and a bit of pasta water to create a silky base.
- Combine Ingredients: Add drained pasta to the skillet, followed by roasted tomatoes and chopped basil. Toss until coated evenly. Add more pasta water if you prefer a looser sauce.
- Finish with Lemon Zest and Parmesan: Remove from heat, add lemon zest and Parmesan, toss lightly, and season to taste.
Serve the Lemon Pasta with Basil and Roasted Tomatoes warm and enjoy each bright, tangy, and aromatic bite.
Chef’s Tips for a Perfect Lemon Basil Pasta Dinner
- Balance Acidity: Add a pinch of sugar or an extra drizzle of olive oil if the lemon tastes too sharp.
- Add Protein: Pair this Lemon Tomato Pasta with grilled chicken, shrimp, or salmon for richness.
- Experiment with Herbs: Replace basil with parsley or mint for new flavor notes in your Roasted Tomato Basil Pasta.
- One-Pot Shortcut: Make a One-Pot Lemon Basil Pasta Dinner by cooking pasta in minimal water and combining all components in one skillet.
- Achieve Creaminess Naturally: Use pasta water and olive oil instead of cream for a healthier silky texture.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use dried basil instead of fresh?
Fresh basil is best for Lemon Pasta with Basil and Roasted Tomatoes, giving the dish a fragrant and lively character. If needed, use 1 teaspoon of dried basil, added early during the garlic sauté step.
What’s the best pasta shape for Lemon Pasta with Tomatoes?
Spaghetti, linguine, or fettuccine coat beautifully with the lemon sauce. Short pasta like penne or rotini also works, catching roasted tomato pieces in each bite.
How do I store leftovers?
Cool leftover Roasted Tomato Basil Pasta, then store it in an airtight container for up to three days. Reheat gently with a splash of water or olive oil to revive the texture.
Can I make this recipe vegan?
Simply skip the Parmesan or use a vegan substitute like nutritional yeast. The rest of this Lemon Basil Pasta Dinner is naturally plant-based.
How can I make it a one-pot dish?
Prepare a One-Pot Lemon Basil Pasta by cooking everything—including pasta, tomatoes, and lemon juice—in one deep skillet. It saves time and enhances flavor as the sauce absorbs every element.
Bringing It All Together
Lemon Pasta with Basil and Roasted Tomatoes proves that simplicity can be spectacular. The bright tang of lemon, the natural sweetness of roasted tomatoes, and the peppery lift of basil come together in perfect harmony.
Enjoy it as a go-to Lemon Basil Pasta Dinner for busy evenings or serve it at gatherings for a light yet satisfying dish. Whether warm or room temperature, each mouthful bursts with freshness and sun-kissed flavor.
Next time you crave something fuss-free but full of character, make this Lemon Pasta with Basil and Roasted Tomatoes. One taste of its citrus brightness and roasted depth will remind you why the simplest meals are often the most memorable.
