Tomato Linguine Recipe

Bring a large pot of water to a rolling boil. Add 1 tablespoon kosher salt. Add the linguine and cook according to package instructions until just shy of al dente (usually 8–9 minutes). Reserve 1 cup of the starchy cooking water, then drain the pasta and set aside.

Sauté aromatics

In a large sauté pan or shallow saucepan set over medium heat, add 3 tablespoons olive oil. Once shimmering, add the finely diced onion and cook, stirring occasionally, until soft and translucent, about 6–8 minutes. Add the minced garlic and crushed red chili flakes and cook 30–45 seconds until fragrant; do not let the garlic brown.

Add tomatoes & smoke flavor

Add the canned whole tomatoes (including juices) and tomato paste to the pan. Use a wooden spoon to break down the whole tomatoes into pieces. Stir in the smoked paprika, sugar (if using), and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.

Simmer & concentrate

Reduce heat to low and let the sauce simmer gently, uncovered, for 12–15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it thickens slightly and deepens in flavor.

Finish the sauce

Stir in the rinsed capers, red wine vinegar (or lemon juice), salt, and pepper. Taste and adjust seasoning—add more salt, a pinch of sugar, or more chili flakes if you prefer heat. Remove from heat and stir in the torn fresh basil leaves and 1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil.

Return the pan with the sauce to medium-low heat. Add the drained linguine to the sauce and toss to coat. If the sauce seems too thick or the pasta is not fully coated, add reserved pasta water a few tablespoons at a time (up to 1 cup) until you reach a silky consistency that clings to the pasta.

Continue to toss and cook together for 1–2 minutes so the pasta finishes cooking in the sauce and absorbs flavors. Turn off the heat and, if using, stir in the grated cheese so it melts into the sauce.

Plate the linguine, drizzle a little extra-virgin olive oil over each portion, garnish with whole basil leaves, and finish with a few extra capers or a pinch of smoked paprika if desired. Serve immediately.