This simple Italian style pasta dish combines flavors of Tuscany and combines pantry staples like pasta, olive oil and canned tomatoes with with the fresh flavors of garlic and basil.
An easy recipe, this quick meal can be made in less than 30 minutes. The leftovers also make a nice pasta salad when served chilled. This recipe serves 6 to 8.
Ingredients for Simple Italian Pasta With Tomatoes and Basil
- 1 lb.angel hair pasta, spaghetti, penne or other pasta
- 2 10 oz. cans diced tomatoes with Italian seasoning, drained.
- 1 large clove garlic, minced
- 1 Tbsp. olive oil
- chopped fresh basil leaves
- salt and pepper to taste
- Canned or fresh Parmesan cheese
Directions for Simple Italian Pasta With Tomatoes and Basil
- Cook pasta according to package directions, set aside
- Heat oil in a large non-stick skillet
- Saute garlic until golden brown
- Add canned tomatoes and cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally for 5 minutes.
- Toss pasta with tomato mixture, coating evenly
- Season with salt and pepper to taste
- Top with basil, pine nuts and Parmesan cheese
Recipe Variations and Additional Ingredients
This is a simple recipe that lends itself to many easy variations and substitutions. Fresh tomatoes can be used instead of canned. Romano, asiago or another hard Italian cheese can also be used as a substitution for Parmesan cheese. Vegan Parmesan cheese is another option for those who avoid dairy products.
One or more of the following ingredients can be added for additional color and flavor. Adding a couple of tablespoons of chopped, toasted pine nuts is an easy addition. Artichoke hearts or olives will also add a more savory touch to this dish.
For a bit of sweetness, roasted red peppers, sauteed eggplant strips or cubes, or a few diced, cooked onions can be tossed with the pasta to round out the flavor. Cubed tofu can add additional protein to this simple meatless main dish.
An Easy Pasta Salad for a Picnic
This light recipe is perfect for warmer weather and dining al fresco on the patio or deck. Served chilled, it makes a great choice for a vegetarian picnic. Italian bread dipped in oil and a fresh salad are perfect complements to this pasta dish.
More Easy Vegetarian Recipes
- Simple Vegetarian French Onion Soup – a vegetarian variation of a recipe traditionally made with beef stock
- Soy and Ginger Sesame Pasta Salad – an easy Asian style pasta salad recipe, also a wonderful dish for a picnic.
- Easy Yeast Pizza Dough – a basic yeast dough recipe for both vegetarians and meat eaters.
Alison Fletcher - Alison Fletcher is a freelance writer, editor and proofreader. She has nearly a decade of experience in the craft and picture framing ...
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