Vegan Tomato and Caper Pasta

Vegan Tomato and Caper Pasta is a vibrant and flavorful dish that combines the sweetness of ripe tomatoes with the briny punch of capers, perfect for a quick weeknight meal. This Greek-inspired pasta is not only easy to prepare but also packed with wholesome ingredients that make it both satisfying and nutritious.

Ingredients

• Pasta (spaghetti or penne) - 160 grams
• Olive oil - 2 tablespoons
• Garlic, minced - 3 cloves
• Cherry tomatoes, halved - 300 grams
• Capers, rinsed - 2 tablespoons
• Fresh parsley, chopped - 2 tablespoons
• Lemon juice - 1 tablespoon
• Salt - to taste
• Black pepper - to taste
• Red chili flakes (optional) - 1/2 teaspoon

Steps

1. Bring a pot of salted water to a boil and cook the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and reserve 1/2 cup of the pasta water.
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.
3. Add the halved cherry tomatoes to the skillet and cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the tomatoes start to soften and release their juices.
4. Stir in the capers, lemon juice, salt, black pepper, and red chili flakes (if using). Cook for another 2 minutes to combine the flavors.
5. Add the cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing to combine. If the mixture seems dry, add reserved pasta water a little at a time until the desired consistency is reached.
6. Remove from heat and stir in the chopped parsley. Adjust seasoning if necessary.
7. Serve hot, garnished with additional parsley and a drizzle of olive oil, if desired.

Nutrition

• Calories: 400
• Protein: 12 g
• Carbs: 70 g
• Fiber: 5 g
• Sugar: 5 g
• Sodium: 500 mg
• Cholesterol: 0 mg
• Total Fat: 12 g
• Saturated Fat: 1 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 9 g
• Water: 0.5 L

Health Benefits

• Rich in antioxidants from tomatoes, which promote heart health.
• High in fiber from pasta and tomatoes, aiding digestion.

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