Let me tell you about my absolute favorite go-to meal: Whole-Wheat Pasta with Tomato Basil! This dish is not only bursting with fresh flavors but also packs a healthy punch. Whole-wheat pasta brings a nutty richness and hearty texture that pairs perfectly with the juicy sweetness of cherry tomatoes and the aromatic brightness of fresh basil. It’s a delightful blend that feels indulgent while keeping things light and nutritious. Whether you’re in a rush or looking to impress at dinner, this recipe comes together in just 25 minutes! Plus, it’s vegetarian-friendly, making it an excellent choice for everyone at the table. Trust me, once you try it, you’ll be hooked on this easy and wholesome meal!
Ingredients List
- 8 oz whole-wheat pasta
- 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Salt to taste
- Black pepper to taste
How to Prepare Whole-Wheat Pasta with Tomato Basil
Preparing this Whole-Wheat Pasta with Tomato Basil is a breeze, and I’m here to guide you through each step! First off, let’s get that water boiling. Fill a large pot with water, add a generous pinch of salt, and bring it to a rolling boil. This is crucial because the salt helps flavor the pasta as it cooks. Once it’s bubbling away, toss in your 8 oz of whole-wheat pasta and cook according to the package instructions—usually about 8-10 minutes for al dente perfection!
While that’s happening, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large pan over medium heat. Be patient and let it warm up; you want it to be nice and hot when you add the garlic. Speaking of garlic, mince 2 cloves and toss them in once the oil shimmers. Sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant but don’t let it burn—oops! That’ll ruin the flavor.
Next, add in your halved cherry tomatoes. Cook them down for about 5-7 minutes until they start to soften and release their juices. This is where the magic happens! Once your pasta is ready, drain it (don’t rinse!) and add it straight to the pan with the tomatoes and garlic. Toss everything together with 1/4 cup of chopped fresh basil, salt, and black pepper to taste. Give it a good mix and let those flavors meld for just a minute or so. And voilà! Your delicious dish is ready to serve warm. Enjoy!
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
- Cook the whole-wheat pasta according to package instructions (about 8-10 minutes).
- In a large pan, heat olive oil over medium heat.
- Add minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Add halved cherry tomatoes and cook for 5-7 minutes until softened.
- Drain the pasta and add to the pan with tomatoes.
- Toss with chopped basil, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
- Serve warm and enjoy your meal!
Nutritional Information
When you’re whipping up this Whole-Wheat Pasta with Tomato Basil, you can feel good about what you’re eating! This dish is estimated to provide around 220 calories per serving, making it a satisfying yet light meal. Each serving contains approximately 7g of fat, 8g of protein, and 35g of carbohydrates, including a hearty 6g of fiber from the whole-wheat pasta. Plus, there’s only a hint of sugar and no cholesterol, so it’s a heart-healthy option. Remember, these numbers are estimates, but they give you a good idea of the nutritious goodness packed into this vibrant dish!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and easy preparation—ready in just 25 minutes!
- Health-conscious without sacrificing flavor—it’s both nutritious and delicious.
- Vibrant, fresh ingredients that celebrate the best of Italian cuisine.
- Perfectly vegetarian-friendly, making it a great option for everyone.
- Customizable with your favorite herbs or additional veggies for extra flair.
- Fills your kitchen with a warm, inviting aroma that makes everyone eager to dig in!
Tips for Success
To make your Whole-Wheat Pasta with Tomato Basil truly shine, here are a few pro tips! First, use high-quality extra virgin olive oil—it makes a world of difference in flavor. And don’t skimp on the fresh basil; it’s the star of the show, so grab the freshest bunch you can find for that aromatic punch!
When cooking your pasta, be sure to taste it a minute or two before the package says it’s done; you want that perfect al dente texture. Also, remember not to rinse the pasta after draining; keeping the starch helps the sauce cling better. Follow these tips, and you’ll create a dish that’s bursting with flavor!
Variations of Whole-Wheat Pasta with Tomato Basil
The beauty of Whole-Wheat Pasta with Tomato Basil is how easily you can make it your own! If you’re feeling adventurous, try adding a pinch of red pepper flakes for a spicy kick. You could also toss in some sautéed zucchini or bell peppers for added veggies—yum! For a twist on flavors, consider using pesto instead of basil for a rich, herby taste.
If you love cheese, sprinkle some crumbled feta or grated Parmesan on top before serving. Don’t hesitate to mix in other fresh herbs like parsley or oregano for a unique take! The possibilities are endless, so have fun experimenting!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
If you happen to have leftovers of your Whole-Wheat Pasta with Tomato Basil, don’t worry—they store beautifully! Just let the pasta cool down to room temperature, then transfer it to an airtight container. You can keep it in the fridge for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply reheat in a skillet over medium heat. Add a splash of olive oil or a little water to help loosen it up and keep it moist. Stir occasionally until heated through, and you’ll have a delightful meal ready in no time!
Serving Suggestions
To elevate your Whole-Wheat Pasta with Tomato Basil into a complete meal, consider pairing it with a simple side salad. A fresh arugula salad drizzled with lemon vinaigrette is a perfect match, adding a peppery bite that complements the dish beautifully. You might also serve it alongside some garlic bread for that classic Italian touch—who can resist that crispy, buttery goodness?
If you’re in the mood for something heartier, grilled chicken or shrimp tossed with a squeeze of lemon would make a fantastic addition, adding protein and a touch of zest. And don’t forget a sprinkle of extra basil on top right before serving; it’s all about those fresh, vibrant flavors!
FAQ Section
Can I use regular pasta instead of whole-wheat? Absolutely! While I love the nutty flavor and health benefits of whole-wheat pasta, you can substitute it with regular pasta if that’s what you have on hand. Just keep an eye on the cooking time, as it may vary.
What if I don’t have fresh basil? No worries! If fresh basil isn’t available, you can use dried basil. Just remember, dried herbs are more potent, so use about one-third of the amount. Alternatively, try fresh parsley or oregano for a different twist!
Can I make this dish ahead of time? Yes! You can prepare the pasta and sauce separately, then combine them just before serving. This way, you can enjoy the fresh flavors without feeling rushed. Just remember to store them in airtight containers in the fridge.
How do I store leftovers? Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy them again, just reheat in a skillet with a splash of olive oil!
For more information on the health benefits of whole grains, check out this Healthline article.
For a delicious twist on pasta dishes, you might also enjoy this Food Network pasta recipe collection.
Print
Whole-Wheat Pasta with Tomato Basil: 25-Minute Delight
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A healthy and flavorful dish made with whole-wheat pasta, fresh tomatoes, and basil.
Ingredients
- 8 oz whole-wheat pasta
- 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Salt to taste
- Black pepper to taste
Instructions
- Cook the whole-wheat pasta according to package instructions.
- In a pan, heat olive oil over medium heat.
- Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant.
- Add halved cherry tomatoes and cook until they soften.
- Drain the pasta and add it to the pan.
- Toss the pasta with tomatoes, basil, salt, and pepper.
- Serve warm.
Notes
- Adjust seasoning to taste.
- Use fresh basil for best flavor.
- Can add grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Boiling and Sautéing
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 220
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fiber: 6g
- Protein: 8g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
Keywords: Whole-Wheat Pasta, Tomato, Basil, Healthy Pasta Dish