Dinner

Fresh Spaghetti Margherita Recipe

Name: Fresh Spaghetti Margherita Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 12 ounces uncooked spaghetti noodles; ⅓ cup extra virgin olive oil; 2 tablespoons minced garlic (about 5-6 cloves); 4 cups halved grape or cherry tomatoes (about 2 pounds); 1 ½ teaspoons granulated sugar; 1 teaspoon salt (more or less to taste); ½ teaspoon ground black pepper (more or less to taste); ½ cup chopped fresh basil (additional for garnish, if desired); 1 ½ cups freshly grated mozzarella cheese (or fresh mozzarella pearls); ⅔ cup freshly grated parmesan cheese (additional for garnish, if desired)

ByHarry Bern February 16, 2026February 16, 2026

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Introduction

Fresh Spaghetti Margherita is a simple yet flavorful Italian classic that celebrates fresh ingredients like ripe tomatoes, basil, and creamy mozzarella. This easy recipe comes together quickly, making it perfect for a weeknight dinner that feels special.

A white speckled bowl with a blue rim holds a serving of spaghetti pasta mixed with small pieces of cooked cherry tomatoes and herbs. The pasta strands are golden yellow and lightly coated with a slightly oily sauce, with bits of red tomato scattered throughout, some whole and some crushed. Sprinkled black pepper and small green herb leaves add texture and contrast, while a single fresh basil leaf rests on top near the edge. The bowl is placed on a white marbled surface, with partial views of tomatoes and green basil leaves on the background. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

12 ounces uncooked spaghetti noodles
⅓ cup extra virgin olive oil
2 tablespoons minced garlic (about 5-6 cloves)
4 cups halved grape or cherry tomatoes (about 2 pounds)
1 ½ teaspoons granulated sugar
1 teaspoon salt (more or less to taste)
½ teaspoon ground black pepper (more or less to taste)
½ cup chopped fresh basil (additional for garnish, if desired)
1 ½ cups freshly grated mozzarella cheese (or fresh mozzarella pearls)
⅔ cup freshly grated parmesan cheese (additional for garnish, if desired)

Instructions

Step 1: Cook the spaghetti noodles according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Step 2: In a large 14-inch skillet, heat extra virgin olive oil over medium-low heat until shimmering but not smoking. Add minced garlic and cook for about 1 minute until fragrant and sizzling, being careful not to brown it.
Step 3: Add halved grape or cherry tomatoes, granulated sugar, salt, and black pepper. Stir to combine, cover, and cook for 10-15 minutes until the tomatoes soften and can be easily smashed with the back of a spoon.
Step 4: Stir in chopped fresh basil and the cooked spaghetti noodles. Toss until the noodles are fully coated and heated through.
Step 5: Remove the skillet from heat and stir in freshly grated mozzarella and parmesan cheeses. Garnish with additional parmesan, fresh basil, and a crack of black pepper before serving.

Tips & Variations

Use fresh mozzarella pearls for a creamier texture and elegant presentation.
If you like a bit of heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes when cooking the garlic.
For added richness, drizzle a little more olive oil over the finished dish before serving.
Swap grape tomatoes for plum tomatoes if you prefer a slightly less sweet sauce.

Storage

Store leftover spaghetti in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of olive oil or water to prevent drying out. This dish is best enjoyed fresh, as the cheese may not melt as nicely upon reheating.

How to Serve

A white bowl with a thin blue rim holds a serving of spaghetti mixed with pieces of bright red cherry tomatoes and green basil leaves scattered throughout. The noodles are coated lightly in a sauce giving them a shiny, slightly oily texture. A silver fork is twirling a small bundle of spaghetti in the center of the bowl, with bits of black pepper sprinkled on top. The bowl sits on a white marbled surface with a soft dark and white patterned cloth nearby, and some out-of-focus cherry tomatoes and small bowls in the background. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use dried basil instead of fresh?

Fresh basil is recommended for the best flavor and aroma, but if needed, use about one-third the amount of dried basil. Add it earlier in the cooking process so the flavor can develop.

What type of spaghetti works best?

Regular semolina spaghetti works well for this dish. You can also use whole wheat or gluten-free pasta based on your preference, just adjust cooking time accordingly.