Tomato Basil Toss
A light and flavorful pasta dish featuring fresh tomatoes, basil, garlic, and olive oil, perfect for a quick, vegetarian-friendly meal that highlights vibrant Mediterranean flavors.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook the angel hair pasta according to the package instructions, being careful not to overcook.
- In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
- Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet and stir-fry for 1 minute.
- Add the peeled and chopped tomatoes, chopped basil, salt, and pepper to the skillet.
- Stir and cook the mixture for 2 minutes to let the flavors meld.
- Drain the cooked pasta and toss it with the sauce in the skillet.
- Serve the pasta sprinkled with Parmesan cheese.
Tips & Substitutions
To enhance the flavor of the Tomato Basil Toss, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes for some heat. If you don't have fresh basil, dried basil can be used, but reduce the amount to about 1 tablespoon. For a heartier dish, you can add sautéed vegetables like zucchini or bell peppers. This recipe is versatile; feel free to incorporate protein like grilled chicken or shrimp for a more filling meal.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Tomato Basil Toss with a side of garlic bread or a refreshing salad, such as a simple green salad or Minted Cucumbers In Sour Cream(Really Good And So Refreshing), to balance the meal. A glass of white wine, like Pinot Grigio, complements the dish beautifully. For an Italian-inspired dinner, consider pairing with a Caprese salad for a delightful combination.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover Tomato Basil Toss can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it gently in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of olive oil or water to help loosen the pasta and prevent it from sticking. Avoid microwaving, as it can make the pasta gummy.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Tomato Basil Toss contains roughly 363 calories, with 9g protein, 45g carbohydrates, and 17g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (46% of the Daily Value) and iron (23% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein and dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1040mg per serving (45% 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 a different type of pasta for this recipe?
Yes, you can substitute angel hair pasta with other types like spaghetti, fettuccine, or even whole wheat pasta. Just ensure to adjust the cooking time according to the package instructions, as different pasta shapes have varying cooking durations.
How can I make this dish vegan?
To make the Tomato Basil Toss vegan, simply omit the Parmesan cheese or replace it with a dairy-free cheese alternative. You can also add nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor without dairy. This dish is naturally vegetarian and can be enjoyed as part of vegetarian recipes.
What can I do with leftover sauce?
Leftover sauce can be stored separately in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. It can be used as a base for soups, drizzled over grilled vegetables, or even as a pizza sauce. Just reheat it gently before using, and consider adding a splash of cream for a richer texture.
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).