Why does this recipe use tomatoes two ways?

The recipe uses both cooked and raw tomatoes to create a complex flavor profile, with sauteed tomatoes forming a rich base and fresh ones adding a bright, zesty finish at the end.

Can I use a different type of pasta for this dish?

Yes, the recipe suggests spaghetti, linguini, or any gluten-free pasta of your choice. The key is to cook it very al dente before finishing it in the pan with the sauce.

How do the white beans help thicken the sauce?

After adding the drained white beans, you'll mash some of them along with the tomatoes. This releases their natural starches, which helps create a slightly thicker, creamier sauce consistency.

Why is the pasta removed from the water 1-2 minutes early?

Removing the pasta when it's still very al dente allows it to finish cooking directly in the pan with the tomato and bean sauce, absorbing all the flavors and achieving a perfect toothsome texture.

How should I store leftovers of this pasta dish?

Store any leftover pasta with white beans and tomatoes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave.

3.3K Views 12 years ago

Pasta With White Beans and Tomatoes Two Ways
[Vegan]

SA By: Sara B. Allen

Author Bio

Sara B. Allen is an avid foodie and adventurous home cook who adopted a plant-based... Read More

Order with Instacart Download Our App

A vibrant bowl of vegan pasta with white beans and tomatoes, showcasing the rich red sauce, whole cherry tomato halves, and al dente spaghetti.

For brands

Want to reach our audience?

Partner with One Green Planet →

Discover more recipes with these ingredients

Pasta with White Beans and Tomatoes Two Ways [Vegan]

Dairy Free

There is no easier, more delicious way to enjoy fresh, ripe tomatoes than prepared simply and tossed with a healthy portion of pasta. For all the richness and complexity that is gained on the stovetop, though, the magical bright, tangy freshness unique to fresh-off-the-vine raw tomatoes vanishes the moment they... Read More

Ingredients You Need for Pasta With White Beans and Tomatoes Two Ways [Vegan]

4 servings spaghetti, linguini, or gluten-free pasta of your choice
At least 1/4 cup olive oil
2 cloves of garlic, chopped
At least 2 pints cherry tomatoes, sliced in half (or any juicy, very ripe variety, chopped)
1 can small white beans, rinsed and drained
Salt to taste

Order with Instacart Download Our App

How to Prepare Pasta With White Beans and Tomatoes Two Ways [Vegan]

Set a large pot of salted water over high heat.
While pasta water is coming to a boil, sauté garlic in 3 tablespoons olive oil over medium heat. When garlic becomes fragrant, add 3/4 of the tomatoes and increase heat. Season with a pinch of salt and sauté over medium heat until the tomatoes begin to soften and give off their liquid.
Add drained beans. Lower heat and continue to cook, mashing some of the beans and tomatoes to thicken the sauce slightly. Don’t worry if there seems to be extra liquid in the pan as it will be soaked up by the noodles.
When water is boiling, add pasta and cook according to package instructions, removing 1-2 minutes early so that it is still very al dente (slightly undercooked).
Drain pasta and add to pan with tomatoes. Continue cooking over low heat for a few minutes, until excess liquid is absorbed and pasta is soft but toothsome.
Remove from heat. Stir in remaining raw tomatoes and olive oil. Adjust salt to taste.