Pasta With Tomatoes And Basil
A vibrant pasta dish featuring fresh tomatoes, basil, garlic, and olive oil, complemented by creamy Brie cheese—perfect for a light, flavorful vegetarian meal.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Chop the tomatoes and fresh basil (or Italian parsley and dried basil if using).
- Cook the pasta in boiling salted water until al dente, then drain.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute.
- Add chopped tomatoes to the skillet and cook for 3-5 minutes until softened.
- Stir in chopped basil (or parsley and dried basil), salt, and freshly ground pepper.
- Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss to combine.
- Cut the Brie cheese into small pieces and stir into the pasta until melted and creamy.
- Serve immediately garnished with additional basil if desired.
Tips & Substitutions
For a fresher taste, use garden-fresh tomatoes and basil. If Brie isn't available, try using cream cheese or goat cheese for a different flavor profile. To enhance the dish, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes for heat or mixing in some sautéed vegetables like zucchini or bell peppers. Pair it with a side of Bruschetta Al Fresca for a complete meal.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this pasta dish warm, garnished with extra fresh basil. It pairs well with a light Italian Dinner Salad and a glass of white wine. For a heartier meal, consider serving it alongside some crusty bread or a side of Spinach-Feta Cheese Pizza. This dish is perfect for a cozy dinner or a casual gathering.
Storage & Reheating
Store any 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 water or olive oil to prevent sticking. You can also microwave it in short intervals, stirring in between, to ensure even heating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Pasta With Tomatoes And Basil contains roughly 1307 calories, with 13g protein, 69g carbohydrates, and 119g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (92% of the Daily Value), iron (60% of the Daily Value), and calcium (41% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin C and vitamin A. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2010mg per serving (87% 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 canned tomatoes instead of fresh?
Yes, you can use canned tomatoes if fresh ones are not available. Opt for whole or diced canned tomatoes and drain excess liquid. The flavor may be slightly different, but it will still yield a delicious result.
How can I make this recipe vegan?
To make this recipe vegan, simply omit the Brie cheese and substitute it with a vegan cheese alternative or nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor. You can also add extra vegetables or a vegan pesto for added richness.
What type of pasta works best for this dish?
Any pasta shape you prefer will work well, but long pasta like spaghetti or linguini is ideal for capturing the sauce. Whole wheat or gluten-free pasta can also be used for a healthier or dietary-friendly option.
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).