Quick Pasta Dish
A quick and flavorful pasta dish featuring fresh tomatoes, garlic, basil, and melted mozzarella. Perfect for weeknights, it combines simple, vibrant ingredients to create a satisfying meal that highlights Mediterranean flavors with minimal effort.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook the pasta of your choice according to package instructions and drain.
- In a bowl, combine the cooked pasta with crushed garlic, chopped fresh tomatoes, olive oil, and basil.
- Mix well to coat the pasta evenly with the ingredients.
- Top with shredded mozzarella cheese and serve immediately.
Tips & Substitutions
For an extra flavor boost, consider adding red pepper flakes for heat or substituting the fresh tomatoes with sun-dried tomatoes. You can also use any type of pasta, such as whole wheat or gluten-free, to suit your dietary preferences. Fresh basil is key, but if unavailable, dried basil can work in a pinch. To enhance the dish, experiment with adding grilled chicken or vegetables like zucchini.
Serving Suggestions
This quick pasta dish pairs beautifully with a light side salad or garlic bread for a complete meal. For a heartier option, serve alongside grilled meats or a Mediterranean-inspired dish like Greek Herbal Chicken. A sprinkle of extra basil or a drizzle of balsamic glaze can elevate the presentation and flavor of the dish.
Storage & Reheating
To store leftovers, place the pasta in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. When ready to eat, reheat in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of olive oil or water to prevent sticking. You can also microwave it, covered, in short intervals, stirring in between, until heated through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Quick Pasta Dish contains roughly 227 calories, with 10g protein, 36g carbohydrates, and 5g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (35% of the Daily Value), iron (28% of the Daily Value), and vitamin C (26% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium and dietary fiber. It also contributes 4g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
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 make this pasta dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the pasta and mix in the ingredients ahead of time. However, it's best to add the mozzarella just before serving to keep it fresh. Store the mixed pasta in the refrigerator, and simply reheat before serving.
What other ingredients can I add to this recipe?
You can enhance this dish with vegetables like spinach, bell peppers, or even roasted zucchini. Adding protein like grilled chicken or shrimp can also turn it into a more filling meal. Experiment with different cheeses such as feta or parmesan for varied flavors.
Is this recipe suitable for vegetarians?
Absolutely! This quick pasta dish is entirely vegetarian, using fresh vegetables, mozzarella, and olive oil. It can be made even more nutritious by adding additional vegetables or legumes. For more vegetarian ideas, check out other recipes in our vegetarian recipes category.
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).