PASTA WITH TOMATOES AND BASIL RECIPES

Steps:

• Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil, add the orzo and cook according to the package directions — usually 8 to 10 minutes. When the orzo is cooked, reserve 1/3 cup of the pasta water (we use this to make the sauce) then drain the orzo.
• Add olive oil, garlic, and the red pepper flakes to a large, deep skillet. Turn to medium heat. When the oil begins to bubble around the garlic, add the cooked orzo pasta, tomatoes, basil, and parmesan cheese. Pour in two tablespoons of the reserved pasta water and cook, stirring often, for one minute. Over the minute, the sauce should begin to coat the pasta, if it seems dry, add a splash more of the reserved pasta water and cook a few more seconds. Taste for seasoning and adjust with a little salt if needed.
• Serve with extra basil, parmesan and fresh ground black pepper on top.

Steps:

• Bring a large pot of water to a boil and add 2 tablespoons of salt and a splash of oil to the pot.
• Meanwhile, heat the 1/2 cup of olive oil in a large (12-inch) saute pan. Add the garlic to the oil and cook over medium heat for 30 seconds. Add the tomatoes, basil, parsley, thyme, 2 teaspoons salt, the pepper, and red pepper flakes. Reduce the heat to medium-low and cook for 5 to 7 minutes, tossing occasionally, until the tomatoes begin to soften but don't break up.
• While the tomatoes are cooking, add the capellini to the pot of boiling water and cook for 2 minutes, or according to the directions on the package. Drain the pasta, reserving some of the pasta water.
• Place the pasta in a large serving bowl, add the tomatoes and Parmesan and toss well. Add some of the pasta water if the pasta seems too dry. Serve large bowls of pasta with extra basil sprinkled on top and a big bowl of extra Parmesan on the side.