A copycat recipe that tastes just like the original Olive Garden cappellini pomodoro! Al dente angel hair pasta smothered in a simple sauce that's chock full of fresh Roma tomatoes, garlic, and basil...
There were a number of things I craved when I was pregnant: namely frozen Cokes, thes pickle roll-ups in sanwdich form, lots and lots of ice (I was always anemic), and anything made with fresh tomatoes.
My husband and I frequented Olive Garden more than I'd prefer to admit during those months when I was tired right down to my bones and the thought of actually cooking a meal could actually reduce me to tears. We've all been there, right? And if not, trust me, in all likelihood, you will be someday.
My go-to meal during this period was the capellini pomodoro. Al dente angel hair pasta smothered in a simple sauce that's chock full of fresh Roma tomatoes and basil... And a portion big enough to feed a horse made for a happy and satisfied pregnant belly!
I couldn't get enough of it and often talked my coworkers into heading there for lunch to get my fix, as well.
But then, much to my horror, Olive Garden changed their recipe... I wish I knew why - it was perfect as it was, but it was just never as good. BIG bummer!
So once I could stomach being in the kitchen again, I set out to recreate the original Olive Garden capellini pomodoro recipe, and I think I came pretty darn close.
With just four basic ingredients that can be picked up at Walmart (Roma tomatoes, fresh basil, garlic and angel hair pasta) and a few pantry staples (olive oil, balsamic vinegar, salt and pepper), this dish can be ready to serve in the time that it takes to boil a pot of water and cook the pasta!
By the way, if you love SUPER EASY pasta recipes, I also highly recommend this simple pasta with olive oil and garlic!!
To this day, capellini pomodoro is one of my favorite quick and easy meatless recipes - perfect for Lent, as well as hot summer days when you want something fresh and light.
Printable Recipe ↓
Copycat Original Olive Garden Capellini Pomodoro
Ingredients
- 1 pound capellini pasta, cooked according to package
- 8 medium Roma tomatoes, seeded and diced
- ½ cup fresh basil, leaves only, finely chopped
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 6 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
- 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
- salt, to taste
- freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Instructions
- While the pasta is cooking, whisk together balsamic vinegar and extra virgin olive oil in a large mixing bowl.
- Add the tomatoes, basil and garlic, and toss until combined.
- Drain the cooked pasta and add it to the bowl while still warm. Toss until well combined.
- Serve immediately.
Recipe Notes
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Theresa Traylor says
This was my favorite item on the olive garden menu. Even up to now. I have made this many times because I can't get over it. I have not tried it with the balsamic vinegar but I'm gonna try it. I always use fresh lemon juice with some lemon zest. I always add parmesan cheese after plating as well. Simple things always seem to turn out the best.
Cherie says
Loved this! One of my favorites at Olive Garden!
Cherie says
Loved this! One of my favorites at Olive Garden!
Hyun says
love!
Jean D. says
One of my favorites from OG. Your version looks so close to the original.. I will give this recipe a try. Thank you for sharing this.
Tara @ Unsophisticook says
Hope you love it, Jean! It's still one of my all-time faves — and it's SO easy to make.
Jean D. says
One of my favorites from OG. Your version looks so close to the original.. I will give this recipe a try. Thank you for sharing this.
Kristin @ cheap-chef.com says
Oh wow, Nick and I are frequent visitors of the Olive Garden. He will be so happy that I found this recipe. Thank you very much!
Miss @ Miss in the Kitchen says
Looks so delicious! Since we have moved we are no longer close to an Olive Garden, now I can make it at home!