Spaghetti With Herbed Tomatoes And Cheese
A flavorful spaghetti dish tossed with fresh tomatoes, basil, melted mozzarella, and Parmesan, perfect for a quick, cheesy, and herbaceous meal suited for any pasta lover.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook spaghetti according to the package instructions.
- In the last few minutes of cooking, drain the spaghetti.
- Meanwhile, place a 2-quart saucepan over medium heat, add the olive oil and heat until hot.
- Cook the minced garlic in the oil until tender.
- Stir in the diced tomatoes, basil, and salt; heat through, stirring occasionally.
- Return the drained spaghetti to the pot.
- Add the tomato mixture, shredded Mozzarella cheese, and grated Parmesan cheese to the spaghetti.
- Serve immediately.
Tips & Substitutions
For a more robust flavor, consider using fresh herbs instead of dried, such as fresh basil and oregano. You can also substitute the Mozzarella with a dairy-free alternative for a vegan version. If you want added protein, toss in some cooked chicken or chickpeas. To save time, use pre-diced tomatoes or canned tomatoes. This dish is a fantastic way to use up summer tomatoes from your garden.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this spaghetti dish with a side of garlic bread or a simple green salad dressed with balsamic vinaigrette for a complete meal. A glass of white wine pairs beautifully with the herbed tomatoes. For a more substantial feast, consider serving it alongside Casserole Napoli for a delightful Italian-inspired dinner.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, add a splash of water or olive oil to the pasta and microwave it in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, until heated through. Alternatively, you can reheat it in a skillet over medium heat, adding a bit of extra oil to keep it moist.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Spaghetti With Herbed Tomatoes And Cheese contains roughly 476 calories, with 17g protein, 26g carbohydrates, and 34g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (34% of the Daily Value) and calcium (24% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2091mg per serving (91% 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 other types of pasta for this recipe?
Absolutely! While spaghetti is traditional, you can use any pasta shape you prefer, such as penne or fusilli. Just adjust the cooking time according to the pasta type you choose, ensuring it's cooked al dente for the best texture.
How can I make this recipe spicier?
To add some heat, consider incorporating red pepper flakes when cooking the garlic or tossing in some diced jalapeños with the tomatoes. You can also finish the dish with a drizzle of spicy olive oil for an extra kick.
Is it possible to make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the tomato mixture in advance and store it in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Just cook the spaghetti fresh right before serving, and combine everything for a quick and easy meal. This is a great option for busy weeknights.
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).