Fresh Tomato Toss
A fresh, flavorful pasta dish featuring ripe tomatoes, green onion, basil, and Parmesan, perfect for a quick, light, and satisfying meal ideal for summer gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook spaghetti and drain.
- Toss hot spaghetti with butter, tomatoes, green onion, basil, salt, pepper, and Parmesan cheese.
- Serve immediately.
Tips & Substitutions
For extra flavor, consider adding minced garlic or crushed red pepper flakes when tossing the spaghetti. If you prefer a lighter version, substitute olive oil for butter. Fresh basil can be used instead of dried for a more vibrant taste. You can also add veggies like bell peppers or zucchini for more nutrition. This dish is versatile and can easily be adapted to suit your taste.
Serving Suggestions
This Fresh Tomato Toss is best served hot and can be paired with a light green salad or garlic bread for a complete meal. For a heartier option, serve it alongside Italian Nut Rolls or a side of 3 Cheese Lasagne(St. Rose Student Recipe). A sprinkle of extra Parmesan on top just before serving enhances the flavors beautifully.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the spaghetti in a microwave-safe dish, cover, and heat in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, until warmed through. You may want to add a splash of water or olive oil to keep it moist during reheating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Fresh Tomato Toss contains roughly 156 calories, with 10g protein, 26g carbohydrates, and 1g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (44% of the Daily Value) and protein (20% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1112mg per serving (48% 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 whole wheat spaghetti instead of regular spaghetti?
Yes, whole wheat spaghetti can be used as a healthier alternative. It will add a nutty flavor and more fiber to the dish. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time according to the package instructions, as whole wheat pasta may take longer to cook.
What can I do if I don't have fresh tomatoes?
If fresh tomatoes are unavailable, you can use canned diced tomatoes instead. Drain them slightly before adding to avoid excess moisture. Alternatively, you can use a combination of sun-dried tomatoes and fresh basil for a more intense flavor.
Is this recipe suitable for vegetarians?
Yes, this Fresh Tomato Toss is a vegetarian-friendly dish. It features simple ingredients that are all plant-based. For a vegan version, simply omit the Parmesan cheese or use a dairy-free cheese substitute.
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).