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Rachel White

tomato basil easy vegetarian dinner recipe

A fresh tomato basil vegetarian dinner that delivers bright flavor with minimal effort. This simple recipe combines juicy tomatoes and aromatic herbs for a light yet satisfying meal perfect for busy evenings.
Print Recipe
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 12 minutes
Total Time 27 minutes
Servings: 18 cookies
Course: Dinner, Snack
Cuisine: American
Calories: 140
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Tomato Base
  • cups tomatoes chopped
  • cup fresh basil chopped
  • cloves garlic minced
Flavor Base
  • tbsp olive oil
  • tsp salt
  • tsp black pepper
  • tsp oregano
Optional Additions
  • cup parmesan grated
  • cup cooked pasta for serving

Equipment

  • Mixing Bowl
  • Baking Sheet
  • Oven
  • Skillet
  • Knife
  • Cutting Board
  • Wooden Spoon

Method
 

  1. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat until warm and shimmering.
  2. Add garlic and cook briefly until fragrant without letting it brown.
  3. Stir in tomatoes and cook until softened and slightly saucy with released juices.
  4. Add seasoning and simmer gently to deepen flavor and balance acidity.
  5. Mix in fresh basil at the end to keep its bright aroma and color.
  6. Serve over pasta or alone, topped with parmesan for added richness and texture.

Notes

Cook tomatoes less for a fresher texture or longer for a thicker sauce. Avoid overcooking basil. Freeze sauce separately for best quality. Adjust herbs or add chili flakes for variation. Store leftovers refrigerated up to three days and reheat gently.