Whole-wheat tomato basil pasta

Whole-wheat tomato basil pasta features a blend of whole-grain pasta, fresh tomato, garlic, and aromatic basil, creating a light yet satisfying dish. Ideal for a quick meal, it's easy to prepare and packed with vibrant flavours.

16 Nov 2025
Cook time 12 min
Prep time 10 min

Ingredients:

1 tomato
1 tsp dried basil
8 oz whole-wheat pasta
1 garlic clove
1 dash salt
1 tbsp olive oil

Whole-wheat tomato basil pasta is a delicious and nutritious meal that brings together whole-grain pasta with fresh, aromatic ingredients. This dish is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a light lunch. It's simple to prepare and packed with the flavors of tomato, basil, and garlic.

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Ingredients:
- Dice the tomato into small cubes.
- Mince the garlic clove finely.

2. Cook the Pasta:
- Bring a large pot of water to a boil.
- Add a dash of salt to the boiling water.
- Add the whole-wheat pasta to the pot and cook according to the package instructions, usually about 8-10 minutes, until al dente.
- Once cooked, drain the pasta, reserving a small cup of the pasta water, and set aside.

3. Make the Sauce:
- While the pasta is cooking, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add the minced garlic to the skillet and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant but not browned.
- Add the diced tomato to the skillet and cook for about 3-4 minutes, allowing it to soften and release its juices.
- Sprinkle in the dried basil and a dash of salt. Stir to combine.
- If the mixture looks too dry, add a tablespoon or two of the reserved pasta water to create a light sauce.

4. Combine Pasta and Sauce:
- Add the cooked pasta to the skillet with the tomato basil sauce.
- Toss everything together to ensure the pasta is well-coated with the sauce.
- Adjust seasoning to taste if needed.

5. Serve:
- Serve the Whole-Wheat Tomato Basil Pasta hot.
- Optionally, you can garnish with a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese or a handful of fresh basil leaves for extra flavor.

Enjoy your homemade whole-wheat tomato basil pasta! This healthy and flavorful dish is sure to become a favorite in your meal rotation. Pair it with a side salad or some crusty bread for a complete meal. Bon appétit!

Whole-wheat tomato basil pasta FAQ:

How long do I need to cook the whole-wheat pasta?

Cook the whole-wheat pasta according to the package instructions, which is typically about 8-10 minutes, until it reaches an al dente texture.

What can I use if I don't have dried basil?

If you don't have dried basil, you can substitute it with fresh basil (use about three times the amount) or try other herbs like oregano or thyme for a different flavor.

How should I store leftover pasta?

Store leftover Whole-Wheat Tomato Basil Pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat in a skillet, adding a splash of water to prevent it from drying out.

How do I know when the pasta is done cooking?

The pasta is done when it is al dente, meaning it should be cooked through but still firm to the bite. Taste a piece to check for the desired texture before draining.

Can I use other types of pasta?

Yes, you can use other types of pasta, such as regular semolina pasta or gluten-free options. Cooking times may vary, so adjust accordingly based on the package instructions.

Tips:

- Select ripe, juicy tomatoes.: Choosing fresh, ripe tomatoes will enhance the flavor and juiciness of the sauce.

- Don't overcook the pasta.: Cook the whole-wheat pasta until it's al dente, which means it should be firm to the bite. Overcooking may make the pasta mushy.

- Use extra virgin olive oil.: Extra virgin olive oil provides a richer flavor compared to regular olive oil.

- Chop the garlic finely.: Finely chopped garlic will infuse the dish with a more uniform and intense garlic flavor.

- Toss the pasta well.: Once you've combined the pasta with the tomato basil sauce, toss it thoroughly to ensure every strand is coated with the delicious sauce.

- Fresh basil enhancement.: If you have fresh basil on hand, use it instead of dried basil for even more vibrant flavor. Add it at the end of cooking to preserve its fresh taste.

Nutrition per serving

2 Servings
Calories 180kcal
Protein 8g
Carbohydrates 36g
Fiber 5g
Sugar 2.49g
Fat 9g

Whole-wheat tomato basil pasta