Sometimes, the simplest meals are the ones that bring the most comfort. This vegan tomato pasta is proof of that.
With just a few pantry ingredients, you can make a dish that’s full of flavour, satisfying to eat, and ready in under 30 minutes.
It’s the kind of meal you can turn to after a long day when you want something homemade but don’t want to spend hours in the kitchen.
The sauce is rich and garlicky with just the right balance of acidity and sweetness, and the pasta brings everything together into one warm, familiar bowl.
If you’re looking for an easy go-to dinner that still feels special, this is it.
Why This Recipe Works
The beauty of this recipe is its simplicity. You only need a handful of ingredients, but the result is full of flavour.
Garlic, olive oil, and good-quality canned tomatoes do most of the work.
A pinch of sugar softens the acidity, and a little pasta water helps the sauce coat each bite.
It’s also endlessly customisable. You can keep it classic or throw in extras like olives, capers, or fresh herbs.
It works as a base for so many variations, which makes it a staple in any plant-based kitchen.
How To Make Our Vegan Tomato Pasta
This dish is super simple – here’s what you’ll need:
Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this quick and easy pasta:
- 350g pasta (spaghetti, penne, or fusilli all work well)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (400g) chopped or crushed tomatoes
- 1 teaspoon sugar (optional, to balance the acidity)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- ¼ cup pasta water (reserved from cooking)
- A handful of chopped fresh basil or parsley
- Vegan parmesan or nutritional yeast for serving (optional)
Method
1. Cook the pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Reserve about half a cup of the cooking water, then drain.
2. Make the sauce
While the pasta is cooking, heat the olive oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add the garlic and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant, being careful not to let it burn. Pour in the tomatoes, stir in the sugar if using, and season with salt and pepper.
Let the sauce simmer for 10 to 15 minutes so it thickens slightly and the flavours come together.
3. Combine and finish
Add the cooked pasta to the sauce along with a splash of the reserved pasta water. Toss everything together until the pasta is well coated. Stir through the chopped herbs.
4. Serve and enjoy
Dish it up while hot. Sprinkle with vegan parmesan or a spoonful of nutritional yeast if you like a cheesy finish.
Our Top Tips For Perfect Tomato Pasta Every Time
Don’t rush the simmer
Even a few minutes makes a big difference to the depth of flavour. Let the tomatoes break down and mellow before mixing with the pasta.
Use good-quality tomatoes
Since this recipe is so simple, the tomatoes really shine. Look for a brand you trust or use fire-roasted for extra depth.
Save that pasta water
The starch helps the sauce cling to the pasta and gives it a silkier texture.
Taste before serving
Everyone’s tomatoes are a little different. Add a pinch more salt or a splash of lemon juice if you need to balance things out.
Great Ways To Make This Pasta Your Own
This tomato pasta is a great base for all kinds of extras. Try adding a handful of baby spinach at the end so it wilts gently into the sauce.
Stir through a few olives or chopped sun-dried tomatoes for added flavour. You could also add sautéed mushrooms or lentils to make it more hearty.
If you enjoy a little heat, a pinch of red pepper flakes added with the garlic does the trick.
Our Storage and Leftovers Tips
Leftovers keep well in the fridge for up to three days. Store in an airtight container and reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave.
Add a splash of water or olive oil to loosen the sauce before serving.
Final Thoughts
This simple vegan tomato pasta is a true weeknight winner. It’s quick, satisfying, and easy to adapt with whatever you have on hand.
Keep it in your rotation for nights when you want a home-cooked meal that doesn’t ask for much. It’s familiar, comforting, and always a good idea.
A Simple Vegan Tomato Pasta Recipe For A Quick Family Dinner
4
servings30
minutes40
minutesIngredients
350g pasta (spaghetti, penne, or fusilli all work well)
1 tablespoon olive oil
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 can (400g) chopped or crushed tomatoes
1 teaspoon sugar (optional, to balance the acidity)
Salt and black pepper, to taste
¼ cup pasta water (reserved from cooking)
A handful of chopped fresh basil or parsley
Vegan parmesan or nutritional yeast for serving (optional)
Directions
- Cook the pasta
- Make the sauce
- Combine and finish
- Serve and enjoy
