This vegan pasta with tomato basil is a simple, tasty dish. It features tender pasta, fresh tomatoes, and fragrant basil, all tossed together with olive oil and garlic for a light meal.
I like to add a sprinkle of nutritional yeast for cheesy flavor, even though it’s vegan. It makes the dish feel extra special without any cheese!
If you need a quick dinner, just cook the pasta and chop some tomatoes. Toss everything together and enjoy a healthy, colorful meal in minutes.
Ingredients & Substitutions
Tomatoes: Fresh ripe tomatoes add bright flavor. I like to use heirloom or vine-ripened for sweetness. Canned diced tomatoes work too if fresh isn’t available; just choose low-sodium for better control of salt.
Basil: Fresh basil provides a fragrant, aromatic note. I always add it at the end to keep the flavor vibrant. If fresh basil isn’t available, use a small amount of dried basil—though fresh tastes best.
Garlic: Garlic gives a warm depth to the sauce. Try to use fresh cloves, chopped finely. If you’re out, garlic powder works in a pinch but won’t give quite the same punch.
Olive Oil: Use good-quality extra virgin olive oil to add richness and help the garlic and tomatoes cook nicely. Light or vegetable oil can substitute if needed, but it will change the flavor slightly.
Salt & Pepper: Enhance all the flavors with a pinch of salt and freshly ground pepper. Adjust to taste—taste as you go to get the best balance.
How do I avoid overcooking the garlic?
To keep garlic from burning and becoming bitter, add it gently to hot oil. Cook on medium-low heat for 30 seconds to a minute, stirring constantly until fragrant. Remove from heat quickly if it starts to turn brown. Burned garlic spoils the dish’s flavor.
- Start with low heat before adding garlic to oil.
- Stir constantly once garlic hits the oil.
- Remove from heat as soon as it’s fragrant and golden.
How to Make Vegan Pasta with Tomato Basil?
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Pasta
- 8 oz vegan pasta (spaghetti or penne)
Tomato Sauce
- 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh Basil
- 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
How Much Time Will You Need?
15 minutes prep + 15 minutes cook = 30 minutes total
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook pasta until al dente, about 10 minutes. Drain and set aside.
2. Prepare the Tomato Sauce
In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and cook for 1 minute. Add cherry tomatoes, salt, and pepper. Cook until tomatoes soften, about 5-7 minutes.
3. Mix Pasta and Sauce
Add cooked pasta to the skillet. Toss with tomato sauce. Cook for 2-3 minutes to blend flavors.
4. Garnish and Serve
Stir in chopped basil. Serve hot, optionally with extra basil on top. Enjoy your vegan pasta!.
