White Spaghetti
A quick and flavorful white spaghetti dish with garlic, basil, and tomatoes, perfect for a comforting meal that combines fresh and savory flavors.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix the olive oil, basil, and minced garlic together and let it soak.
- Cook the noodles in boiling water until al dente, then drain and reserve 1 cup of the pasta water.
- Toss the noodles with the oil mixture, adding salt and Parmesan cheese to taste.
- Squeeze the can of tomatoes into the spaghetti and stir to combine.
Tips & Substitutions
For a flavorful twist, consider using fresh basil instead of dried for a more vibrant taste. You can also add red pepper flakes for a hint of heat or substitute the noodles with whole wheat or gluten-free options. If you find the sauce too oily, balance it with a splash of lemon juice. This dish pairs wonderfully with garlic bread, such as Pizza Bread Dough.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the white spaghetti hot, garnished with additional Parmesan cheese and fresh basil for a pop of color. It pairs excellently with a side salad or Italian-Style Beans for a complete meal. For an elegant touch, a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil just before serving enhances the dish’s flavor.
Storage & Reheating
To store leftovers, place the spaghetti in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, add a splash of reserved pasta water to revive the sauce's consistency and warm it gently on the stove or in the microwave to prevent it from drying out.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of White Spaghetti contains roughly 134 calories, with 1g protein, 29g carbohydrates, and 2g fat. It is a good source of vitamin C (19% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 529mg per serving (23% 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 cheese instead of Parmesan?
Absolutely! You can substitute Parmesan with Pecorino Romano for a sharper flavor, or use nutritional yeast for a vegan-friendly alternative. Just keep in mind that the flavor profile will change slightly, but it will still be delicious.
What can I add to make the dish heartier?
To make the dish more substantial, consider adding cooked chicken, shrimp, or sautéed vegetables like spinach or bell peppers. This not only enhances the flavor but also increases the nutritional value of your meal.
How can I make this dish vegan?
To make the white spaghetti vegan, simply omit the Parmesan cheese or use a plant-based alternative. You can also enhance the flavor with nutritional yeast, which gives a cheesy taste without dairy, making it a perfect addition to vegan recipes.
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).