Fettucini With Tomatoes, Basil And Feta Cheese
Fettucini with fresh tomatoes, fragrant basil, and creamy feta cheese offers a vibrant, Mediterranean-inspired flavor profile. Juicy tomatoes combined with salty prosciutto and herbs make this dish perfect for summer dinners or an easy weeknight meal that’s both satisfying and light.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix chopped tomatoes, julienned prosciutto, julienned basil, olive oil, balsamic vinegar, and minced garlic in a large bowl.
- Add salt and pepper to taste.
- Set aside for 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
- Cook pasta in boiling water until tender.
- Drain the pasta.
- Add the cooked pasta to the tomato mixture.
- Top with crumbled feta cheese.
- Serve immediately.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes or substituting the prosciutto with pancetta. Fresh tomatoes are ideal, but canned tomatoes can work in a pinch. If you're looking for a vegetarian option, omit the prosciutto and add extra vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini. This dish is also delightful with a sprinkle of toasted pine nuts for added texture.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this fettucini alongside garlic bread or a fresh salad like New Zealand Salad for a complete meal. It pairs beautifully with a light white wine, complementing the flavors of the dish. For added freshness, consider garnishing with extra basil or a drizzle of high-quality olive oil before serving.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of olive oil to prevent sticking. You can also microwave it for about 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through for even heating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Fettucini With Tomatoes, Basil And Feta Cheese contains roughly 335 calories, with 3g protein, 8g carbohydrates, and 33g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (41% of the Daily Value) and vitamin A (20% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron.
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 a different type of cheese instead of feta?
Yes, you can substitute feta with goat cheese for a creamier texture or even a sharp cheddar for a different flavor profile. Just keep in mind that the taste will change slightly, so choose a cheese that complements the dish's ingredients.
How can I make this dish vegan?
To make this dish vegan, simply omit the prosciutto and feta cheese. You can enhance the flavor with nutritional yeast or a vegan feta alternative. Additionally, consider adding more vegetables like mushrooms or spinach for extra nutrition and texture.
What type of pasta works best for this recipe?
While fettuccini is a great choice, you can use any pasta shape you prefer, such as penne or farfalle. Just ensure that the pasta is cooked al dente, as it will absorb some of the sauce's flavors while resting with the tomato mixture.
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).