Pasta With Tomatoes
A simple and flavorful pasta dish featuring fresh tomatoes, Parmesan cheese, and perfectly cooked macaroni. Light, savory, and quick to prepare, it’s ideal for a comforting weeknight meal or a casual gathering with friends. Bright and cheesy, it highlights fresh flavors with minimal effort.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine cooked and drained macaroni with Parmesan cheese.
- Add chopped tomatoes, salt, and pepper.
- Toss everything together and serve.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider using fresh basil or oregano, which pair beautifully with the tomatoes. If you don't have Parmesan, Pecorino Romano or a vegan cheese alternative can work well. To save time, pre-cook a larger batch of macaroni and store it in the fridge for quick meals. For a creamier texture, try adding a splash of cream or a dollop of ricotta cheese.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this dish warm, garnished with extra Parmesan and a sprinkle of fresh herbs. It pairs nicely with a side salad or crusty bread for a complete meal. For a more substantial dinner, consider serving it alongside Vegetable Lasagna(Eating Light) or a simple garlic bread. This dish is also perfect for a casual lunch with a glass of white wine.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, add a splash of water or olive oil to prevent drying out and microwave in short intervals, stirring occasionally. Alternatively, you can reheat it on the stovetop over low heat until warmed through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Pasta With Tomatoes contains roughly 135 calories, with 13g protein, 17g carbohydrates, and 2g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (31% of the Daily Value), protein (25% of the Daily Value), and calcium (20% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and vitamin A. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 3000mg per serving (130% 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, canned tomatoes can be a convenient alternative. Just make sure to drain them well before adding to the pasta. Consider using diced tomatoes for a similar texture, or crushed tomatoes for a saucier consistency. Adjust the salt as canned tomatoes can be saltier.
How can I make this dish gluten-free?
To make this recipe gluten-free, simply substitute regular macaroni with gluten-free pasta made from rice, corn, or legumes. Cook it according to package instructions, and follow the rest of the recipe as is. The flavors will remain delicious and satisfying!
What other vegetables can I add?
You can enhance this dish by adding sautéed vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, or spinach. Simply cook them before adding to the pasta to ensure they are tender. This will not only boost the nutritional value but also add a variety of textures and flavors.
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).