Vermicelli With Tomato-Basil Sauce
Vermicelli with tomato-basil sauce is a quick, flavorful vegetarian dish featuring fresh tomatoes, basil, and Parmesan, perfect for light, satisfying meals for family or friends.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook vermicelli according to package directions, omitting the salt and fat; drain well, then set aside.
- Coat a Dutch oven with cooking spray; place over medium heat until hot.
- Add onion and garlic; saute 5 minutes or until onion is tender.
- Stir in peeled tomatoes, tomato sauce, basil, and pepper.
- Bring to a boil; reduce heat and simmer 15 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Add cooked vermicelli; cook, uncovered, until thoroughly heated, stirring occasionally.
- Transfer mixture to a large platter; sprinkle with Parmesan cheese.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding a splash of red wine while simmering the sauce. If fresh tomatoes are not available, you can substitute with canned whole tomatoes. Adjust the level of basil to your taste, or experiment with other herbs like oregano or thyme. A pinch of sugar can also balance the acidity of the tomatoes.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this dish warm, garnished with extra Parmesan cheese and fresh basil for a pop of color. It pairs beautifully with a side of Savory Italian Asparagus(Low-Fat And Low-Sodium) or a fresh garden salad. A crusty piece of garlic bread would also complement this meal perfectly.
Storage & Reheating
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, add a splash of water or tomato sauce to prevent drying out and warm in a saucepan over low heat, stirring occasionally. You can also microwave it in a covered bowl, stirring halfway through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Vermicelli With Tomato-Basil Sauce contains roughly 240 calories, with 3g protein, 57g carbohydrates, and 1g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (20% of the Daily Value) and vitamin C (20% of the Daily Value), and a good source of 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 dish vegan?
Yes, you can easily make this dish vegan by omitting the Parmesan cheese or substituting it with a vegan cheese alternative. Additionally, ensure that the vegetable cooking spray used is free from animal products.
How can I make the sauce thicker?
To thicken the sauce, you can simmer it uncovered for a longer period to reduce the liquid. Another option is to add a tablespoon of tomato paste, which will also enhance the flavor. You can also incorporate a cornstarch slurry if needed.
Can I freeze the leftover vermicelli with sauce?
Yes, you can freeze the leftovers. It's best to freeze the sauce and pasta separately to maintain texture. Place the cooled sauce in a freezer-safe container and store the vermicelli in a bag. When ready to enjoy, thaw in the refrigerator and reheat as mentioned.
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).