Basil is a must. It adds so much flavor, fragrance and complexity to the sauce." pasta al pomodoro with basil and parmesan - Food Fantasy/Shutterstock Popping open a can of store-bought tomato ...

So many Italian pasta dishes start with a tomato-based sauce, and pasta al pomodoro (pasta with tomato sauce) is as classic ...

You also want to allow the pappa al pomodoro to rest for at least an hour before serving. The bread needs time to absorb the tomato sauce and soften, which creates a custardy mouth-feel.