Heart-Healthy Classic Spaghetti Pomodoro

Elevate your pasta night with this Heart-Healthy Classic Spaghetti Pomodoro, a nourishing twist on an Italian favorite. Featuring whole grain spaghetti and a vibrant sauce of sautéed garlic, juicy cherry tomatoes, and fresh basil, this recipe is packed with fiber, antioxidants, and bold Mediterranean flavors. A hint of crushed red pepper adds a subtle kick, while a squeeze of fresh lemon brightens the dish without compromising its wholesome appeal. Ready in just 30 minutes, this easy-to-make meal is perfect for busy weeknights, and it’s equally delicious with or without a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese. Whether you're watching your heart health or simply craving a lighter pasta option, this recipe is a perfect balance of simplicity, nutrition, and flavor.

Nutriscore Rating: 75/100

Prep Time:10 mins

Cook Time:20 mins

Total Time:30 mins

Servings: 4

Ingredients

• 12 ounces Whole grain spaghetti
• 2 tablespoons Olive oil
• 3 pieces Garlic cloves, thinly sliced
• 4 cups Cherry tomatoes, halved
• 0.5 teaspoon Salt
• 0.25 teaspoon Crushed red pepper flakes
• 0.5 cup Fresh basil leaves, chopped
• 1 medium Lemon, juiced
• 0.25 cup Parmesan cheese, grated (optional)

Directions

Step 1

Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Add a pinch of salt and the whole grain spaghetti to the pot. Cook the spaghetti according to the package instructions, or until al dente, usually about 8 to 10 minutes.

Step 2

While the spaghetti is cooking, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.

Step 3

Add the thinly sliced garlic to the skillet and cook until fragrant and golden, about 1 to 2 minutes, being careful not to burn it.

Step 4

Add the halved cherry tomatoes to the garlic in the skillet. Sprinkle with 0.5 teaspoon of salt and the crushed red pepper flakes. Cook the tomatoes, stirring occasionally, until they have softened and released their juices, about 8 to 10 minutes.

Step 5

Once the pasta is cooked, reserve 1 cup of pasta cooking water and then drain the pasta.

Step 6

Add the drained spaghetti to the skillet with the tomato mixture.

Step 7

Toss everything together and add pasta cooking water a little at a time until the sauce reaches the desired consistency and coats the pasta.

Step 8

Stir in the fresh basil leaves and the juice of one lemon, tossing everything together to combine. Adjust seasoning with more salt if needed.

Step 9

Serve the spaghetti warm, topped with optional grated Parmesan cheese for a richer flavor, though it's a delicious heart-healthy dish even without it.

Nutrition Facts

Serving size	(1203.1g)

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	1079.4

Total Fat 49.2g	0%
Saturated Fat 15.6g	0%
Polyunsaturated Fat 2.7g
Cholesterol 47.4mg	0%
Sodium 2129.5mg	0%
Total Carbohydrate 125.5g	0%
Dietary Fiber 25.3g	0%
Total Sugars 20.2g
Protein 49.3g	0%

Vitamin D 0IU	0%
Calcium 911.4mg	0%
Iron 12.7mg	0%
Potassium 2336.7mg	0%

*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.

Source of Calories

Fat: 38.8%

Protein: 17.3%

Carbs: 44.0%