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Tomato Basil Tofu Pasta Recipe

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4.2 from 50 reviews

A vibrant and healthy Tomato Basil Tofu Pasta that combines the creaminess of silken tofu with fresh cherry tomatoes, aromatic basil, and a hint of spice. This wholesome dish uses simple ingredients to create a flavorful, protein-rich vegan pasta perfect for a comforting weeknight dinner.

  • Total Time: 35 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings

Ingredients

Pasta

  • 1 pound pasta of choice

Tofu and Vegetables

  • 14 ounces silken tofu
  • 20 ounces cherry or grape tomatoes (by weight)
  • 1 white or yellow onion
  • 3 teaspoons minced garlic (about 6 large cloves)
  • ¼ cup fresh basil

Liquids and Oils

  • 4 tablespoons olive oil, divided
  • ½ cup white wine (dry, such as pinot grigio)

Flavorings

  • ¼ cup nutritional yeast
  • 3 tablespoons tomato paste
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • ¼ teaspoon black pepper
  • ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)

Instructions

  1. Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
  2. Sauté Aromatics: In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent and soft, about 5-7 minutes. Add minced garlic and cook for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
  3. Cook Tomatoes: Add the cherry or grape tomatoes to the skillet and cook until they begin to burst and soften, about 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally to release their juices.
  4. Deglaze with Wine: Pour in the white wine and simmer until reduced by half, which will take about 3-5 minutes, allowing the flavors to concentrate.
  5. Prepare Sauce: In a blender or food processor, combine silken tofu, nutritional yeast, tomato paste, salt, black pepper, red pepper flakes, and fresh basil. Blend until smooth to create a creamy tomato basil sauce.
  6. Combine Sauce and Tomatoes: Pour the tofu sauce into the skillet with the cooked tomatoes. Stir to combine and cook over low heat for about 5 minutes to heat through and meld flavors.
  7. Toss Pasta with Sauce: Add the drained pasta to the skillet and toss well to coat evenly with the sauce. Heat for an additional 2-3 minutes to allow the pasta to absorb the flavors.
  8. Serve: Drizzle remaining 2 tablespoons of olive oil on top before serving for added richness. Garnish with extra fresh basil if desired. Serve warm.

Notes

  • Use silken tofu for a creamy, smooth sauce texture.
  • Adjust red pepper flakes based on your preferred spice level.
  • Any dry white wine can be used if pinot grigio is unavailable.
  • For gluten-free, select gluten-free pasta.
  • Leftovers keep well in the fridge for up to 3 days and reheat gently on the stovetop.
  • Author: Madelynn
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 25 minutes
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: Italian-inspired
  • Diet: Vegan