Tomato Basil Pasta That’s Light Yet Filling

Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes

This Tomato Basil Whole Wheat Pasta Recipe is a perfect choice for an easy dinner recipe. Featuring fresh tomatoes, fragrant basil, and whole wheat pasta, it’s a delightful dish that aligns well with Mediterranean diet recipes.

This recipe is simple to prepare, making it ideal for busy weeknights. With vibrant flavors and wholesome ingredients, you can have a satisfying meal on the table in no time.

Quick and Healthy Tomato Basil Whole Wheat Pasta

This dish combines al dente whole wheat pasta tossed with a sauce made from ripe tomatoes, fresh basil, and garlic, creating a vibrant and nutritious meal. It takes about 25 minutes to prepare and serves 4 people.

Ingredients

8 ounces whole wheat pasta
2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
3 cloves garlic, minced
1/4 cup olive oil
1/2 teaspoon salt, adjust to taste
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1 cup fresh basil leaves, roughly chopped
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Red pepper flakes for garnish (optional)

Instructions

Cook the Pasta: Begin by boiling a large pot of salted water. Add the whole wheat pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving 1/2 cup of the pasta cooking water.
Prepare the Sauce: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant. Stir in the cherry tomatoes, salt, and pepper, cooking until the tomatoes are soft and begin to release their juices, about 5-7 minutes.
Combine: Add the drained pasta to the skillet with the tomato sauce. If necessary, add some reserved pasta water to help loosen the sauce. Toss to coat the pasta evenly with the sauce.

Finish: Remove the skillet from heat and stir in the fresh basil. Serve immediately, garnished with grated Parmesan cheese and red pepper flakes if desired.