Tomato Basil White Bean Pasta

Name: Tomato Basil White Bean Pasta
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 8 oz whole wheat pasta; 1 can (15 oz) white beans, drained and rinsed; 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved; 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 2 tbsp olive oil; Salt and pepper to taste; Parmesan cheese for serving (optional)

Highlighted under: Classic Kitchen

I absolutely love this Tomato Basil White Bean Pasta because it’s a delightful twist on the classic pasta dish. Combining fresh tomatoes, fragrant basil, and protein-packed white beans creates a nourishing and vibrant meal that’s perfect for any occasion. The simplicity of the ingredients and the quick preparation time make it my go-to recipe for weeknight dinners. With every bite, the flavors meld together, providing a fresh and uplifting dining experience that feels both comforting and gourmet.

Created by

Leonie Fairchild

Last updated on 2026-01-15T19:49:44.067Z

When I first experimented with combining white beans and pasta, I was amazed at how well the flavors harmonized. The slight creaminess of the beans perfectly complements the acidity of the tomatoes while the basil adds a lovely freshness. I found that using ripe, juicy tomatoes makes a world of difference in taste, elevating the dish from simple to spectacular.

Each time I make it, I like to play with the proportions of ingredients just a bit. Sometimes, I’ll add a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for a pop of heat or toss in some spinach for an extra nutrient boost. The balance of flavors in this dish is what makes it so uniquely delicious and enjoyable!

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Fresh and vibrant flavors combine seamlessly in every bite
Packed with protein and fiber from white beans for a filling meal
Quick to prepare, making it ideal for busy weeknights

Maximizing Flavor with Fresh Ingredients

Using fresh cherry tomatoes in this Tomato Basil White Bean Pasta not only enhances the dish’s flavor but also adds a vibrant color that makes the meal visually appealing. Look for tomatoes that are firm and fragrant, as they are likely to be the ripest. If cherry tomatoes are unavailable, you can substitute with diced Roma tomatoes, though they may require a slightly longer cooking time to break down and meld into the sauce.

The role of fresh basil cannot be understated—it brings an aromatic quality that elevates the dish. For the best flavor, avoid tearing basil leaves too finely, as this can lead to an unpleasant bitter aftertaste. Instead, using a technique called chiffonade, where leaves are stacked, rolled, and sliced into thin ribbons, preserves the essence of basil while distributing it fluidly throughout the pasta.

Perfecting Texture with Cooking Techniques

Cooking the whole wheat pasta to al dente is crucial to maintaining its texture against the tender beans and juicy tomatoes. Typically, this means removing the pasta from the boiling water about 1–2 minutes before the package instructions indicate. By doing this, the pasta will continue cooking slightly when mixed with the hot tomato and bean sauce, absorbing the flavors as it sits.

When sautéing the garlic in olive oil, be watchful of the heat; medium is usually ideal, but if the garlic begins to brown too quickly, reduce the heat to low. Properly sautéed garlic should be soft and fragrant, adding depth to the dish—a sign of perfect sautéing is when it releases a pleasant aroma without turning brown, which can introduce bitterness.

Ingredients

For the Pasta

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

Instructions

Cook the Pasta

In a large pot of boiling salted water, cook the whole wheat pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Sauté the Garlic

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

Add Tomatoes and Beans

Stir in the halved cherry tomatoes and white beans. Cook for about 5 minutes until the tomatoes start to soften.

Combine and Serve

Toss the cooked pasta with the tomato and bean mixture. Add fresh basil, season with salt and pepper, and mix well. Serve warm, topped with Parmesan cheese if desired.

Pro Tips

For an even heartier dish, consider adding vegetables like spinach or kale. You can also substitute the white beans with chickpeas for a different flavor profile.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

This Tomato Basil White Bean Pasta is fantastic for meal prepping! You can cook the pasta and prepare the tomato-bean mixture up to 3 days in advance. If you plan to store the dish, keep the pasta and sauce separate to prevent the noodles from becoming mushy. Store them in airtight containers in the refrigerator, and simply reheat each component on the stove or in the microwave when ready to serve.

For optimal taste after refrigerating, I recommend rewarming the pasta in a skillet with a splash of olive oil or broth. This method will help revive the dish’s freshness and prevent it from drying out, ensuring that your last serving tastes just as vibrant as the first.

Serving Suggestions and Pairings

Dress up your Tomato Basil White Bean Pasta by serving it alongside a crisp green salad tossed with lemon vinaigrette. The acidity of the dressing will complement the richness of the beans and the sweetness of the tomatoes, creating a well-rounded meal. A light sprinkle of red pepper flakes can also enhance the dish with a bit of heat, balancing the flavors beautifully.

Feeling adventurous? Consider adding a protein boost by incorporating grilled chicken or shrimp. Simply sauté the proteins separately and mix them into the pasta before serving. This variation not only increases the meal's heartiness but also allows you to customize it to fit different dietary preferences.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use canned tomatoes instead of fresh?

Yes, you can use canned tomatoes, but fresh tomatoes will provide a burst of flavor that enhances the dish.

→ Is this dish vegan?

Yes, it's vegan if you omit the Parmesan cheese or use a vegan cheese substitute.

→ How can I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet with a splash of water to prevent sticking.

→ Can I freeze this pasta dish?

It’s best to freeze the pasta separately from the sauce to preserve texture. You can freeze the sauce for up to 2 months.