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
More recipes
Smoked chicken risotto
Creamy smoked chicken risotto with fresh vegetables and parmesan.
17 Feb 2026Vegan tomato pasta
A simple Vegan Tomato Pasta with roasted cherry tomatoes and creamy sauce.
06 Feb 2026Panzanella salad
A refreshing Italian Panzanella salad with toasted bread and vegetables.
03 Jan 2026Ham, asparagus and red pepper frittata with parmesan cheese
A protein-packed ham and asparagus frittata with parmesan.
26 Dec 2025Parmesan broccoli with olive oil
Enjoy Parmesan broccoli with olive oil as a tasty side dish.
13 Nov 2025Lemon and almond ricotta biscuits
Delightful lemon and almond ricotta biscuits topped with a glaze.
06 Jan 2026Linguine with pancetta and sauteed cherry tomatoes
Quick and flavorful linguine with pancetta and cherry tomatoes.
24 Nov 2025