Tomato Pasta
A fresh and vibrant tomato pasta featuring ripe tomatoes, mozzarella, basil, and garlic, perfect for a light, flavorful meal suitable for friends and family gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix all ingredients and let stand for one to ten hours.
- Toss with hot pasta.
- Serve and enjoy.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using heirloom tomatoes or adding a splash of balsamic vinegar. If fresh basil isn't available, dried basil can be used, but reduce the amount to 1 tablespoon. For a creamier texture, try adding a bit of ricotta cheese to the mix. This recipe is great as a base for other Italian recipes – feel free to experiment with different herbs.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this tomato pasta with a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese on top for added flavor. A side of garlic bread complements the dish beautifully. For a complete meal, pair it with Italian vegetables with pasta or a fresh green salad to balance the richness of the cheese.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm the pasta in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of olive oil to prevent sticking. You can also microwave it, covered, for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through to ensure even heating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Tomato Pasta contains roughly 283 calories, with 16g protein, 18g carbohydrates, and 16g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (49% of the Daily Value), calcium (34% of the Daily Value), and protein (33% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1052mg per serving (46% 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 make this tomato pasta ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the tomato mixture in advance and let it marinate in the refrigerator. Just be sure to toss it with the hot pasta right before serving to maintain freshness and flavor.
What type of pasta works best with this recipe?
Any type of pasta can work, but short pasta shapes like penne or fusilli hold the sauce well. For a lighter option, whole wheat or gluten-free pasta can also be used without compromising taste.
Is this recipe suitable for vegetarians?
Absolutely! This tomato pasta is vegetarian-friendly as it features fresh vegetables and cheese. You can make it vegan by substituting the mozzarella with a plant-based cheese alternative.
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).