Tomato Basil White Bean Pasta

Name: Tomato Basil White Bean Pasta
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 8 oz spaghetti or your favorite pasta; 2 cups ripe tomatoes, diced; 1 can (15 oz) white beans, rinsed and drained; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped; 2 tbsp olive oil; Salt and pepper to taste; Parmesan cheese, for serving (optional)

Highlighted under: Fast Easy Meals Favorites

I love making Tomato Basil White Bean Pasta, especially when I'm craving something both comforting and nutritious. The combination of tender pasta, fresh tomatoes, and creamy white beans creates a delightful dish that's packed with flavor. It's perfect for those days when I want a quick meal that still feels special. I often top it with fresh basil and a sprinkle of Parmesan for a touch of elegance. Plus, it's an excellent way to use up ripe tomatoes from my garden!

Created by

Ottoline Reeves

Last updated on 2026-01-15T14:13:36.258Z

When I first experimented with this Tomato Basil White Bean Pasta recipe, I was amazed at how a few simple ingredients could come together so deliciously. I started with sautéing the garlic in olive oil, which brought out a wonderful aroma. Then, I added the tomatoes, letting them soften and release their juices, creating a rich sauce without any fuss. This technique really highlights the natural sweetness of the tomatoes and makes the dish incredibly satisfying.

One key tip I discovered is to use quality canned white beans, as they add creaminess without overpowering the delicate flavors of the dish. By simply tossing everything together at the end and letting it simmer briefly, the pasta absorbs the vibrant flavors of the sauce, making each bite a burst of joy. This is a recipe I keep coming back to!

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Fresh and vibrant flavors from ripe tomatoes and basil
Hearty white beans add protein and creaminess
Quick to make, perfect for weeknight dinners

      

The Role of Fresh Ingredients

When it comes to Tomato Basil White Bean Pasta, the quality of your ingredients can significantly impact the dish’s flavor. Fresh, ripe tomatoes not only provide natural sweetness but also contribute a juicy texture that balances well with the creaminess of white beans. I recommend using heirloom or vine-ripened tomatoes for the best taste. If it’s not tomato season, you can use good-quality canned tomatoes as a substitute, but make sure to drain them well to avoid excess moisture in your pasta.

Basil, too, plays a critical role in this recipe. Fresh basil not only adds an aromatic quality but also brings brightness that lifts the dish. If you don’t have fresh basil on hand, dried basil can work in a pinch, but reduce the amount to one tablespoon, as dried herbs tend to have a more concentrated flavor. You won't get the same vibrant notes, but it can still blend nicely with the other ingredients.

Perfecting Your Cooking Technique

Cooking the spaghetti to al dente is essential for achieving a satisfying texture. Overcooked pasta will become mushy and lose its ability to hold sauce. Follow the package instructions closely, but start checking for doneness a minute or two early. Look for a slight firmness when you bite into it; this way, the pasta can absorb flavors from the sauce without becoming too soft. Remember to save that pasta water—it’s the secret ingredient to making a luscious, cohesive sauce.

When you sauté the garlic, watch closely to prevent burning. Garlic can go from fragrant to bitter in just a few moments. Cook it over medium heat until it turns a light golden brown, which usually takes about 1 minute. Adding the tomatoes and beans after the garlic is sautéed allows those flavors to meld together beautifully. You'll know the tomatoes are ready when they begin to soften and release their juices, generally in about 5-7 minutes.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients before you start cooking:

Ingredients

8 oz spaghetti or your favorite pasta
2 cups ripe tomatoes, diced
1 can (15 oz) white beans, rinsed and drained
2 cloves garlic, minced
1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
2 tbsp olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste
Parmesan cheese, for serving (optional)

Once you have all these ingredients ready, you'll be set to make this tasty dish!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create your Tomato Basil White Bean Pasta:

Cook the Pasta

In a large pot of boiling salted water, cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup of the pasta water, then drain the pasta.

Sauté the Garlic

In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute.

Add Tomatoes and Beans

Stir in the diced tomatoes and white beans. Season with salt and pepper. Cook until the tomatoes begin to soften, about 5-7 minutes.

Combine Everything

Add the cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing to combine. If the mixture seems dry, add some of the reserved pasta water. Stir in the chopped basil.

Serve

Serve warm, topped with freshly grated Parmesan cheese if desired.

Your delicious Tomato Basil White Bean Pasta is ready to be enjoyed!

Pro Tips

For added flavor, try roasting the tomatoes in the oven before adding them to the pasta for a deeper sweetness.

Serving Suggestions

This dish is delicious on its own, but you can elevate it by adding protein. Grilled chicken or shrimp would complement the flavors beautifully and make the dish more filling. Additionally, a sprinkle of red pepper flakes can introduce a hint of heat, balancing the sweetness of the tomatoes.

Pairing your pasta with a simple side salad of mixed greens and a light vinaigrette can create a delightful contrast. The freshness of the salad will enhance the meal while adding crunch. For a more substantial meal, consider serving garlic bread alongside; just toast slices until golden and crispy.

Meal Prep and Storage

Tomato Basil White Bean Pasta can be made ahead of time and stored in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, add a splash of water to the pasta in a skillet over medium heat and toss until warmed through. This helps revive the sauce without drying out the pasta. If you're making this dish for meal prep, I recommend cooking the pasta slightly undercooked, as it will continue to soften when reheating.

For longer storage, you can freeze the dish, but keep in mind that the texture may change upon thawing, especially the tomatoes. It’s best to freeze the sauce separately from the pasta. When ready to serve, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat on the stove. Adding fresh basil at the end will brighten the flavors back up.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use other types of pasta?

Yes! Feel free to substitute any pasta you prefer, such as penne or fusilli.

→ Is this dish vegan?

Absolutely! Just omit the Parmesan cheese or use a vegan alternative.

→ How can I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat before serving.

→ Can I add meat to this recipe?

Yes, you can add cooked chicken or sausage for an extra protein boost!