Tomato Basil Pasta
User Reviews
4.9
-
Prep Time
10 mins
-
Cook Time
20 mins
-
Total Time
30 mins
-
Servings
5
-
Calories
432 kcal
-
Course
Main Course
Tomato Basil Pasta
Description
This Tomato Basil Pasta recipe centers on spaghetti cooked to package instructions, then combined with a skillet mixture of olive oil, minced garlic, and diced fresh Roma tomatoes or halved cherry tomatoes. The garlic is gently sautéed to release aroma without browning, preserving its delicate flavor. Tomatoes cook briefly, emitting juices that create a fresh sauce base.
Black pepper adds a touch of spice, and freshly chopped basil contributes herbal brightness. Parmesan cheese is sprinkled during cooking and at serving to provide savory depth and a slightly salty contrast. The pasta carries the fresh vegetable and herb flavors well without heavy sauces.
The dish can be served as is for a light vegetarian meal or topped with cooked chicken breast slices to make it heartier. Optional additions like sautéed vegetables can enhance texture and nutrition. As a warm pasta plate, this recipe emphasizes fresh produce flavors and simple preparation.
Variations mentioned in the notes suggest swapping in whole wheat pasta or augmenting the dish with various veggies or protein to suit preferences and increase satiety.
Ingredients
- 12 ounces spaghetti noodles
- 2 Tablespoons olive oil
- 3-4 cloves garlic , minced
- 2 pounds Roma tomato diced, or cherry tomatoes, halved
- black pepper to taste, freshly ground
- 1 cup basil chopped, fresh leaves
- 1/2 cup Parmesan Cheese divided, freshly grated
- 1-2 chicken breast optional. See note
Instructions
- Cook pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
- While pasta cooks, heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add oil. Once hot, add garlic and sauté for 30 seconds, careful not to burn it.
- Add freshly diced tomatoes and cook, stirring, about 2 to 3 minutes. Add fresh ground black pepper, to taste. Sprinkle with 2 Tablespoons parmesan cheese. Add fresh chopped basil.
- Serve mixture over hot cooked spaghetti noodles.
- Garnish with remaining parmesan cheese. Serve immediately.
Notes
- Whole wheat or other pasta types can be used as substitutes.
- Consider adding chopped spinach, onion, zucchini, or asparagus for extra vegetables.
- For extra protein, sauté chicken breast seasoned with salt and pepper before adding garlic and tomatoes.
Nutrition Information
Show DetailsNutrition Facts
Serving: 5Serving
Amount Per Serving
Calories 432 kcal
% Daily Value*
| Calories | 432kcal | 22% |
| Carbohydrates | 60g | 20% |
| Protein | 23g | 46% |
| Fat | 11g | 17% |
| Saturated Fat | 3g | 15% |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 1g | 6% |
| Monounsaturated Fat | 5g | 25% |
| Trans Fat | 1g | 50% |
| Cholesterol | 38mg | 13% |
| Sodium | 241mg | 10% |
| Potassium | 789mg | 17% |
| Fiber | 4g | 16% |
| Sugar | 7g | 14% |
| Vitamin A | 1865IU | 37% |
| Vitamin C | 27mg | 30% |
| Calcium | 135mg | 14% |
| Iron | 2mg | 11% |
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet.
User Reviews
Overall Rating
4.9
You'll Also Love
