Print
clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon
Pasta Pomodoro with Fresh Basil and Parmesan

Pasta Pomodoro with Fresh Basil and Parmesan


  • Author: Marcus
  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x
  • Diet: Plant-Based

Description

Pasta Pomodoro with Fresh Basil and Parmesan (plant-based) is a vibrant and fresh Italian-inspired dish that combines ripe tomatoes, fragrant basil, and creamy plant-based Parmesan cheese. Easy to prepare in under 30 minutes, this meal is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a casual lunch, celebrating simplicity, fresh flavors, and wholesome ingredients without compromising taste.


Ingredients

Scale

Tomato Sauce

  • 2 cups ripe vine-ripened or cherry tomatoes, chopped
  • 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
  • 2 cloves fresh garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon vegetarian Worcestershire sauce (natural)
  • Salt, to taste
  • Freshly ground black pepper, to taste

Pasta

  • 8 ounces spaghetti or linguine
  • Reserved pasta cooking water, as needed

Finishing Touches

  • 1 cup fresh basil leaves, gently torn
  • 1/2 cup Parmesan (plant-based), grated

Optional Variations

  • 1/4 cup smoked turkey bacon, crispy pieces (optional)
  • 1/4 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped (optional)
  • Zucchini noodles in place of pasta (optional)
  • Red chili flakes, to taste (optional)
  • 1/4 cup smoked turkey slices, thinly sliced (optional)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Ingredients: Wash and chop the tomatoes into bite-sized pieces. Peel and finely mince the garlic. Gently tear the fresh basil leaves to release their aroma. Measure out your pasta and grate the Parmesan (plant-based).
  2. Cook the Pasta: Boil a large pot of salted water. Add the pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve one cup of pasta water before draining.
  3. Make the Pomodoro Sauce: Heat extra virgin olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant but not browned. Add the chopped tomatoes, vegetarian Worcestershire sauce (natural), salt, and freshly ground black pepper. Simmer gently for 10-15 minutes until the tomatoes break down into a luscious sauce.
  4. Combine Pasta and Sauce: Add the drained pasta directly into the skillet with the tomato sauce. Toss to combine, adding reserved pasta water gradually to achieve a silky, glossy coating.
  5. Finish with Basil and Parmesan: Remove from heat and stir in the torn fresh basil leaves, allowing them to wilt gently. Sprinkle generously with grated Parmesan (plant-based) and toss once more. Adjust seasoning if needed. Serve immediately.

Notes

  • Use ripe tomatoes for the most flavorful sauce.
  • Reserve pasta water to help the sauce cling to pasta.
  • Keep the heat low during simmering to avoid burning the garlic.
  • Add fresh basil at the end for bright color and flavor.
  • Adjust sauce thickness by slowly adding pasta water.
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 serving
  • Calories: 350
  • Sugar: 6g
  • Sodium: 250mg
  • Fat: 14g
  • Saturated Fat: 3g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 10g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 45g
  • Fiber: 5g
  • Protein: 8g
  • Cholesterol: 0mg

Keywords: Pasta Pomodoro, Fresh Basil, Parmesan plant-based, Quick Pasta Recipe, Vegan Pasta, Italian Pasta, Vegetarian Worcestershire sauce, Plant-Based Parmesan