This 5-Ingredient Tomato Basil Penne is the ultimate quick and wholesome weeknight meal!
Bursting with the sweetness of cherry tomatoes, the freshness of basil, and a creamy dairy-free sauce, it’s both satisfying and nourishing.
Packed with plant-based protein, heart-healthy fats, and fiber-rich pasta, this simple dish delivers comfort without the heaviness.
Perfect for busy days, it’s a flavorful, fuss-free pasta that comes together in under 30 minutes.
Tomato Basil Penne
Equipment
- 1 large stock pot
- 1 pasta strainer
- 1 wooden spoon or spatula
- 1 measuring cup
- 1 sharp knife
Ingredients
- 8 ounces dry penne pasta
- 2 tablespoons avocado oil or olive oil
- 12 ounces cherry tomatoes
- 8 cloves garlic smashed and roughly chopped
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- ½ cup unsweetened non-dairy cream such as Ripple or Trader Joe’s brand
- ½ cup fresh basil chopped
Instructions
- Prepare and Boil the Pasta: Begin by filling a large stock pot with water and place it over high heat. Once the water reaches a rolling boil, generously season it with salt — this not only flavors the pasta but also enhances the overall taste of the dish. Add the dry penne and cook it according to the package directions until it reaches an al dente texture, meaning tender yet slightly firm when bitten. Stir occasionally to prevent the pasta from sticking to the bottom or clumping together. Once cooked, drain the pasta using a strainer, but do not rinse it — this helps the sauce adhere better later. Set the pasta aside and return the empty pot to the stove for the next step.
- Sauté the Cherry Tomatoes: Add the avocado oil (or olive oil, if preferred) to the same pot and heat it over medium heat. Once the oil begins to shimmer, add the cherry tomatoes. Stir to coat them evenly in the warm oil. Allow the tomatoes to cook uncovered for about 10 minutes, stirring frequently. As they heat up, they’ll begin to soften, blister, and eventually burst, releasing their natural juices to form the base of the sauce. If the tomatoes start splattering, partially cover the pot or slightly lower the heat to control it. By the end of this step, your kitchen should be filled with the aroma of roasted, sweet tomatoes.
- Add Garlic and Seasonings: Once the tomatoes have softened and burst, add the roughly chopped garlic to the pot. Stir gently to combine, allowing the garlic to mingle with the tomato juices. Season with a generous pinch of salt and freshly ground black pepper. Use the back of your spoon to lightly press down on the tomatoes, helping them release even more of their natural juices and creating a thicker, rustic sauce. Continue sautéing for another 2–3 minutes, just until the garlic becomes tender and fragrant but not browned. This step develops deep flavor and brings the sauce together beautifully.
- Combine the Pasta and Cream: Reduce the heat to low, then add the cooked penne back into the pot with the tomato-garlic mixture. Pour in the non-dairy cream and toss everything together until the pasta is evenly coated in the rich, velvety sauce. The heat will gently warm the cream without curdling it. Stir slowly and continuously so the sauce clings perfectly to each piece of penne. This combination of creamy texture and fresh tomato essence gives the dish its signature light yet luscious character.
- Add Fresh Basil and Adjust Flavors: Sprinkle the chopped fresh basil over the pasta, stirring gently to distribute the herbs throughout the dish. The basil adds a bright, aromatic freshness that complements the creamy, savory sauce. Taste the pasta and adjust the seasoning if needed — adding more salt or pepper to suit your preference. If you like a touch of spice, you can even add a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes here for a subtle kick.
- Serve and Garnish Beautifully: Once the pasta is perfectly coated and fragrant, remove the pot from the heat. Serve the Tomato Basil Penne hot, garnished with a few extra fresh basil leaves for color and freshness. If you wish, sprinkle a bit of vegan parmesan or nutritional yeast over the top for added flavor. This dish pairs wonderfully with a crisp green salad or a slice of crusty bread for a complete, satisfying meal. Enjoy the simplicity and elegance of a restaurant-quality pasta made effortlessly in your own kitchen.
Notes
- Use high-quality cherry tomatoes for the best flavor — ripe ones will burst easily and create a naturally sweet, rich sauce.
- Non-dairy cream brands vary in thickness and taste. Unsweetened varieties such as Ripple or Trader Joe’s heavy whipping cream yield the creamiest, most neutral flavor.
- Fresh basil makes a big difference — its aromatic oils infuse the sauce and balance the acidity of the tomatoes.
- You can add extra vegetables like spinach, zucchini, or roasted bell peppers for more color and nutrition.
- For extra creaminess, stir in a spoonful of vegan parmesan or a splash more non-dairy cream just before serving.
Chef’s Secrets for Perfect Flavor Balance
The secret to a truly exceptional Tomato Basil Penne lies in the timing and layering of flavors.
Allowing the cherry tomatoes to slowly burst in warm oil brings out their natural sweetness and creates a silky base for the sauce.
Avoid rushing this step — patience transforms the texture and depth of flavor.
When adding the garlic, let it soften gently without browning; this keeps the flavor mellow and fragrant rather than harsh.
Using good-quality oil such as avocado or extra virgin olive oil also enhances the overall richness of the dish.
Finally, toss the pasta with the sauce over low heat so the cream thickens slightly and coats every strand evenly, ensuring a smooth, velvety finish.
Serving Suggestions for an Elegant Presentation
This pasta shines as a comforting yet sophisticated main dish that can easily be dressed up or down.
Serve it straight from the pot for a cozy weeknight dinner or plate it elegantly for guests with a drizzle of olive oil and extra basil on top.
It pairs beautifully with a crisp green salad tossed in a light vinaigrette or a side of roasted vegetables for added texture and color.
For a complete Italian-inspired meal, offer slices of garlic bread or a small bowl of vegan parmesan at the table.
If you’d like to turn it into a heartier dish, mix in some sautéed mushrooms or plant-based sausage for added protein and flavor.
Storage Tips to Keep It Fresh
To store leftovers, allow the pasta to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container.
It can be refrigerated for up to 3–4 days.
When reheating, add a splash of non-dairy cream or water to loosen the sauce and restore its creamy texture.
Warm it gently over low heat on the stovetop or in the microwave in short intervals, stirring occasionally to prevent dryness.
Freezing is possible but not ideal since the non-dairy cream may slightly separate when thawed.
If you do freeze it, store it in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months and reheat slowly for the best results.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use regular dairy cream instead of non-dairy cream?
Yes, if you’re not avoiding dairy, you can substitute with regular heavy cream or half-and-half. However, non-dairy options provide a lighter, plant-based alternative with less saturated fat and a clean, neutral taste.
2. What type of pasta works best for this recipe?
Penne is ideal because its tubular shape holds the creamy tomato sauce well, but you can use any short pasta such as rigatoni, fusilli, or rotini.
For a healthier option, try whole-grain or chickpea pasta to boost fiber and protein.
3. How can I make the sauce thicker or creamier?
If you prefer a richer sauce, let it simmer a few extra minutes after adding the cream, stirring constantly.
You can also blend a small portion of the tomatoes before adding the pasta or stir in a spoonful of vegan cream cheese for added body.
4. Can I add protein to this pasta?
Absolutely! Grilled tofu, sautéed tempeh, chickpeas, or vegan sausage are all excellent protein additions. For a non-vegan option, you can add grilled chicken or shrimp, which pair beautifully with the tomato-basil flavor.
5. How can I prevent the sauce from splattering while cooking?
To minimize splattering, partially cover the pot with a lid while cooking the tomatoes and maintain a medium heat level. Stirring frequently helps the tomatoes cook evenly and prevents hot juices from escaping the pot.
