Whole-wheat pasta with fresh tomato basil sauce and parmesan cheese
This whole-wheat pasta dish features a fresh tomato basil sauce made from ripe tomatoes and dressed with Italian seasoning. Topped with Parmesan cheese, it’s a quick and nutritious meal perfect for weeknight dinners.
Cook time 10 min
Prep time 15 min
Ingredients:
8 tomatoes1/2 cup italian salad dressing
16 oz whole-wheat pasta
1 cup basil leaves
1/4 cup grated parmesan cheese
This delicious and healthy recipe for whole-wheat pasta with fresh tomato basil sauce and parmesan cheese is a perfect dish for a quick weeknight dinner. Whole-wheat pasta brings a nutty, rich flavor and pairs perfectly with the fresh tomato basil sauce. Topped with grated Parmesan cheese, this meal provides both flavor and nutrition, offering a delightful dining experience.
Instructions:
- Begin by washing the tomatoes thoroughly. Cut them into small, bite-sized pieces. Set aside.
- Fill a large pot with water and add a pinch of salt. Bring the water to a boil.
- Add the whole-wheat pasta to the boiling water. Cook according to the package instructions or until al dente (firm to the bite), typically about 8-10 minutes.
- Drain the pasta in a colander and rinse with cold water to stop the cooking process. Set aside.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the chopped tomatoes and the Italian salad dressing. Gently mix to ensure the tomatoes are well-coated with the dressing.
- Add the roughly torn basil leaves to the tomatoes. Stir gently to combine.
- In the same pot used to cook the pasta, add the drained, cooled pasta back in.
- Pour the tomato basil mixture over the pasta. Toss gently to combine, ensuring the pasta is evenly coated with the sauce.
- Divide the pasta among individual serving plates or transfer to a large serving bowl.
- Sprinkle each serving with grated Parmesan cheese.
- For extra flavor and presentation, you can garnish with additional basil leaves or a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil.
- Serve immediately and enjoy your delicious whole-wheat pasta with fresh tomato basil sauce and Parmesan cheese!
Whole-wheat pasta with fresh tomato basil sauce and parmesan cheese is a wholesome and tasty meal that's easy to prepare. The burst of fresh flavors from the tomatoes and basil, combined with the nutty whole-wheat pasta and savory parmesan, makes for a satisfying and nutritious dinner. Follow these tips to elevate your dish and enjoy every bite of this comforting pasta recipe.
Whole-wheat pasta with fresh tomato basil sauce and parmesan cheese FAQ:
Whole-wheat pasta typically takes about 8-10 minutes to cook until al dente. Always check the package instructions for specific cooking times.
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stove, adding a splash of water if needed to prevent sticking.
Yes, you can substitute regular pasta for whole-wheat pasta. Cooking times may vary, so adjust according to the package instructions.
To test if the pasta is cooked properly, bite into a piece; it should be firm to the bite but not hard. This is known as 'al dente'.
If you don't have Italian salad dressing, you can make a quick substitute using olive oil, vinegar, garlic, and Italian herbs for a similar flavor profile.
Cooking Tips:
- Choose ripe, juicy tomatoes to enhance the natural sweetness of the sauce.
- Use fresh basil leaves for the best flavor.
- Grate parmesan cheese freshly to enhance its taste and aroma.
- Cook the pasta al dente to maintain its texture and absorb the sauce better.
- You can add a splash of white wine to the sauce for an extra layer of flavor.
Nutrition Facts
8 ServingsCalories 120kcal
Protein 4.95g
Carbohydrates 22g
Fiber 2.97g
Sugar 3.38g
Fat 2.94g
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