Spelt Tomato and Basil Pasta

A Quick, Comforting Bowl

Spelt Tomato and Basil Pasta brings together earthy spelt pasta with a rich tomato sauce and fresh basil. It’s simple to prepare yet full of homemade comfort. The spelt pasta gives a nutty flavour that pairs perfectly with the sweetness of ripe tomatoes and the aroma of basil.

Why You’ll Love It

This dish is wholesome, vegan-friendly, and ideal for busy days. It’s ready in under 30 minutes and feels like something you’d enjoy in an Italian countryside kitchen. You can serve it as a main meal or a side dish, and it works well hot or cold. Light, nourishing, and satisfying—this is everyday cooking at its best.

Prep Time 10 mins

Cook Time 20 mins

Total Time 30 mins

Cuisine: Italian

Courses: Main Dish

Difficulty: Beginner

Servings: 2

Estimated Cost: 3.20

Calories: 420

Best Season: Summer

Dietary: Dairy-Free, High Fiber, Vegan

Description

A quick and healthy pasta dish made with spelt pasta, ripe tomatoes, and fresh basil. Light, aromatic, and perfect for weeknight meals.

Ingredients

180 g spelt pasta (penne, fusilli, or spaghetti)
2 tbsp olive oil
2 cloves garlic (finely chopped)
1 small onion (diced)
400 g chopped tomatoes (tinned or fresh)
1 tbsp tomato purée
½ tsp sea salt
¼ tsp black pepper
½ tsp dried oregano
Handful fresh basil leaves (torn)
1 tsp balsamic vinegar (optional, for depth)
1 tbsp nutritional yeast or vegan parmesan (optional, to serve)

Instructions

1
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the spelt pasta and cook according to the packet instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving a little pasta water.
2
In a large pan, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add chopped onion and cook for 3–4 minutes until soft.
3
Add the garlic and cook for another 1 minute until fragrant.
4
Stir in chopped tomatoes, tomato purée, oregano, salt, and pepper. Let simmer for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.
5
Add balsamic vinegar and a splash of pasta water if the sauce thickens too much.
6
Toss in the cooked spelt pasta and mix until well coated.
7
Remove from heat and add torn basil leaves. Stir gently to preserve freshness.
8
Serve warm, topped with nutritional yeast or vegan parmesan if desired.

Nutrition Facts

Servings 2

Amount Per Serving
Calories 420kcal

% Daily Value *
Total Fat 14g22%
Saturated Fat 2g10%
Sodium 390mg17%
Potassium 580mg17%
Total Carbohydrate 60g20%
Dietary Fiber 9g36%
Sugars 8g
Protein 14g29%

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.

Note

Additional Notes:

Store leftovers in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Reheat gently with a splash of water or olive oil.
This dish tastes even better the next day as the flavours blend.

Keywords: spelt pasta, tomato basil pasta, vegan, healthy dinner, Italian recipe, easy pasta

Tips & Variations

Make It Your Own

Add Protein: Stir in cooked lentils or chickpeas for a more filling meal.
Extra Veggies: Add chopped spinach, courgette, or roasted peppers for colour and texture.
Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free pasta instead of spelt pasta.
Creamier Sauce: Mix in a spoonful of oat cream or cashew cream before serving.

This recipe is highly adaptable—keep it simple for quick lunches or dress it up for dinner with friends.

Conclusion

Spelt Tomato and Basil Pasta is proof that simple ingredients can create bold, fresh flavours. It’s quick to cook, healthy to eat, and satisfying any time of the year. Give it a try and share it with someone who loves a comforting, plant-based meal.

Read it online: https://greatbritishspeltrecipes.com/recipe/spelt-tomato-and-basil-pasta/

Valentina

A dietitian with a passion for spelt cooking. After trying different diets, I found spelt works best in my kitchen. Join me for simple, delicious recipes that bring out the best in this ancient grain!