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: 12 oz pasta (your choice); 1 can (15 oz) white beans, rinsed and drained; 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved; 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 2 tbsp olive oil; Salt and pepper to taste; Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)

Highlighted under: Home Healthy Meals Inspiration

I adore creating dishes that are both simple and bursting with flavor, and this Tomato Basil White Bean Pasta is a perfect example. Each bite is a delightful combination of fresh tomatoes, aromatic basil, and creamy white beans, bringing together vibrant flavors that make my taste buds sing. It’s a quick, satisfying meal that comes together in under 30 minutes, perfect for busy weeknights or a casual dinner with friends. I love how the ingredients highlight the beauty of summer produce—it feels like a bowl of sunshine!

Created by

Linnea Porter

Last updated on 2026-01-15T13:49:36.315Z

When I first made this dish, I was blown away by how quickly it came together without sacrificing flavor. The secret is in using fresh ingredients and letting the natural flavors shine. I remember the vibrant colors of the tomatoes contrasting beautifully with the green basil; it was like a painting on my plate! The white beans add an unexpected creaminess that perfectly complements the al dente pasta.

One specific tip I learned is to toss the pasta with just a little of the pasta cooking water to create a silky sauce that clings to every noodle. This simple trick elevates the dish, making it feel indulgent while staying light and healthy. My family devoured it, and I was so proud to have created something so flavorful with such minimal effort!

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Fresh and vibrant flavors that remind you of summer
Creamy texture from the white beans that adds heartiness
Quick to make, perfect for any weeknight dinner

      

Understanding the Ingredients

The star ingredients in this Tomato Basil White Bean Pasta are undoubtedly the fresh tomatoes and white beans. Cherry tomatoes not only bring a burst of sweetness but also add a beautiful pop of color to the dish. When cooked, they soften and create a delightful sauce that clings to the pasta. White beans contribute creaminess without the need for heavy cream, making them a great alternative for a lighter dish while still providing a hearty texture.

Basil is another standout element in this recipe. Fresh basil leaves add aromatic notes that elevate the dish to new heights. Always opt for fresh basil over dried for maximum flavor impact. To enhance its flavor, gently tear the leaves rather than chopping them; this allows for a more aromatic experience as the essential oils are released.

Tips for Perfecting the Pasta

Cooking pasta may seem straightforward, but timing is key for achieving the perfect texture. Always check the pasta just a minute before the package instructions suggest. It should be al dente, meaning it is cooked through but still has a slight firmness when bitten. If overcooked, the pasta will become mushy and won't hold up well against the other ingredients.

When combining the pasta with the sautéed mixture, be generous with the reserved pasta water. Start with a quarter cup and stir until you reach your desired sauce consistency. The starchy water helps the sauce adhere to the pasta, creating a seamless blend of flavors. If you find it too dry, add more water little by little.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to make this delicious pasta dish:

Ingredients

12 oz pasta (your choice)
1 can (15 oz) white beans, rinsed and drained
2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 tbsp olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste
Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)

Now that you have your ingredients ready, let's start cooking!

Instructions

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

Cook the Pasta

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

Sauté the Garlic

In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant but not browned.

Add the Tomatoes and Beans

Add the cherry tomatoes and white beans to the skillet. Cook for about 5–7 minutes until the tomatoes soften and release their juices.

Combine with Pasta

Toss the cooked pasta into the skillet, adding reserved pasta water as needed to create a light sauce. Stir in chopped basil and season with salt and pepper.

Serve

Plate the pasta and sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese, if desired. Enjoy warm!

This dish comes together beautifully and can be customized with different grains or veggies!

Pro Tips

For an extra burst of flavor, try adding a squeeze of lemon juice or a pinch of red pepper flakes to the dish. It elevates the overall taste and adds a lovely brightness!

Make-Ahead and Storage

This dish is not only quick to prepare but also adaptable for meal prep. You can cook the pasta and prepare the sautéed mixture in advance, then combine them when you're ready to serve. Store each component in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. When reheating, add a splash of reserved pasta water to loosen the mixture and bring it back to life without losing flavor.

If you plan on freezing the dish, consider undercooking the pasta slightly, as it will continue to cook during reheating. Freeze the pasta and sauce in separate containers for a better result. To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight, then reheat in a skillet over low heat, adding water as needed to prevent sticking.

Serving Suggestions and Variations

This Tomato Basil White Bean Pasta pairs beautifully with a light salad or crusty bread for a complete meal. For a heartier version, consider adding grilled chicken or sautéed shrimp. These proteins not only enhance the dish but also make it more filling, especially if you are serving guests.

Feel free to experiment with different herbs and vegetables. Spinach or arugula could be added for extra greens, while a sprinkle of red pepper flakes will bring heat. For a vegan version, simply omit the Parmesan cheese or substitute it with a vegan cheese alternative. The beauty of this dish is its versatility, making it easy to customize based on your pantry and preferences.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use whole grain pasta?

Absolutely! Whole grain pasta works great and adds more fiber to the meal.

→ What can I substitute for white beans?

You can use chickpeas or any other beans you prefer, like cannellini or navy beans.

→ Can I make this dish vegan?

Yes, it’s already vegan! Just omit the Parmesan cheese or use a vegan alternative.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove with a splash of water to loosen it up.