Easy Vegetarian Pasta with Fresh Tomatoes

Looking for a quick and delicious pasta dish? Here's an easy vegetarian pasta recipe that’s packed with fresh tomatoes and simple ingredients you might already have in your kitchen. This meal is perfect for busy weeknights or when you just want something light but satisfying.

Ingredients:

• 200g of spaghetti (or any pasta of your choice)
• 4 ripe medium-sized tomatoes
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil leaves
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
• Salt to taste
• Freshly ground black pepper to taste
• Optional: Parmesan cheese for garnishing

Cooking Time: 20 minutes

Number of Servings: 4

Instructions:

Step 1: Prepare the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente (firm). Drain the pasta in a colander, reserving some cooking water for later use.

Step 2: Sauté Garlic and Tomatoes

In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté until golden brown but not burnt. Then add the chopped tomatoes. Cook the tomatoes down to reduce their volume by half. Season with salt and pepper according to your preference.

Step 3: Mix Pasta and Sauce

Mix the cooked pasta into the tomato sauce. Stir gently until the pasta is well coated in the sauce. If it seems too dry, add some reserved pasta water a little at a time for desired consistency.

Optional Garnish: Sprinkle fresh basil leaves and freshly grated Parmesan cheese on top before serving.

Tips for Success:

• To ensure your tomatoes are juicy, it’s best to use slightly underripe ones. They’ll hold their shape better during cooking without becoming overly mushy.
• Don’t overcook the pasta as al dente retains a delightful chewiness which pairs beautifully with the sauce.
• If you prefer less acidic flavors in your dish, reduce the amount of tomatoes used or add more olive oil to balance out the acidity.

Nutritional Information:

This recipe is rich in essential vitamins and minerals thanks to its vegetable content. Tomatoes are particularly high in lycopene which supports heart health and reduces inflammation. Fresh basil contributes antioxidants that support brain function, while olive oil provides healthy fats beneficial for skin elasticity among other benefits.

Enjoy Your Meal!

The dish should be served immediately as pasta tends to stick together when left standing for too long. Serve this alongside a side salad or garlic bread for a complete meal. This simple yet flavorful dish can also serve as the base for various vegetarian meatballs, making it versatile and satisfying.

Experimentation is Key:

You can experiment with adding other vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or spinach to enhance the flavor profile further. Additionally, try using different types of pasta such as fusilli or farfalle for a change in texture without altering the taste too much.

This recipe offers an excellent balance between simplicity and satisfaction suitable for all levels of cooks. Whether you're new to cooking or have years of experience under your belt, this easy vegetarian pasta will delight both you and your guests alike!