Angel'S Hair Tomato Basil Toss
Angel's Hair Tomato Basil Toss is a light, fresh pasta dish featuring ripe tomatoes, fragrant basil, and garlic, perfect for summer dinners or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Prepare capellini according to package directions; drain.
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil.
- Stir-fry minced garlic and sliced green onions for one minute, without browning.
- Add peeled and diced tomatoes (or canned tomatoes), chopped basil, salt, and pepper.
- Stir and cook for 2 minutes.
- Toss the tomato sauce with the hot cooked capellini.
- Serve and sprinkle with Parmesan cheese.
Tips & Substitutions
For a lighter version, consider using whole wheat capellini or substituting half of the olive oil with vegetable broth. Fresh basil is preferred for its vibrant flavor, but if unavailable, dried basil works well. Ensure to sauté the garlic gently to prevent bitterness. Adding a pinch of red pepper flakes can introduce a pleasant heat. This dish also pairs beautifully with Garlic Bread Twists for a complete meal.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this Angel's Hair Tomato Basil Toss with a side of crusty bread or a fresh green salad for a delightful meal. It also pairs well with Italian recipes like Brushetta, enhancing the Mediterranean experience. For a protein boost, consider adding grilled chicken or shrimp on top. Garnish with extra Parmesan cheese for added flavor.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm the pasta in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of olive oil or broth to keep it moist. Avoid microwaving, as it can make the capellini mushy. Enjoy it cold as a pasta salad if desired.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Angel'S Hair Tomato Basil Toss contains roughly 72 calories, with 5g protein, 9g carbohydrates, and 2g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (30% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 491mg per serving (21% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use other types of pasta for this recipe?
Yes, while capellini is traditional for this dish, you can substitute it with other pasta types such as linguine or spaghetti. Just adjust the cooking time according to the package instructions, as different pasta shapes may require varying cooking durations.
Is it possible to make this dish vegan?
Absolutely! To make this dish vegan, simply omit the Parmesan cheese or substitute it with a plant-based cheese alternative. You can also enhance the flavor by adding nutritional yeast for a cheesy taste without dairy.
Can I prepare this dish in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the sauce ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. When ready to serve, cook the capellini fresh, then combine it with the reheated sauce. This ensures the pasta maintains its texture and flavor.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).