This Green Beans with Pasta and Tomatoes dish is the definition of a simple, no-fuss meal. It’s hearty enough to satisfy, yet light and full of fresh flavor.
Tender pasta tossed with fresh or canned tomatoes, a drizzle of olive oil, and crisp green beans makes for a satisfying vegetarian recipe that feels just right for any night of the week.
This is one of those no-fuss meal ideas built on simple ingredients you probably already have in your kitchen.
It’s a meatless pasta dish that’s not only quick and delicious but also budget-friendly, perfect for when you want to eat well without spending too much time or money.
How To Make Green Beans With Pasta
Preparing the Rigatoni
- Prepare the rigatoni according to the instructions on the package for al dente.
Preparing the Green Beans
- While the rigatoni is cooking, in a large skillet or pot, add the olive oil and bring to a high heat. Next, add the garlic and sauté until golden, about 1-2 minutes.
- Next, lower the heat to medium and add in the onions, green beans, salt, and ground black pepper, and sauté for 5 minutes, mixing occasionally.
Bringing it All Together
- Continuing on medium heat, add in the diced tomatoes and cook for 5 minutes, mixing occasionally.
- Finally, add in the cooked pasta and cook for 2 minutes, mixing occasionally to incorporate all of the ingredients.
How To Serve Green Beans With Pasta:
- Serve this green beans with pasta recipe, family style, in a large serving bowl.
Invent Your Recipe
When you need something comforting but light, green beans with pasta is the kind of dish that brings it all together; simple, flavorful, and ready without much fuss.
Tender pasta tossed with fresh or canned tomatoes, a drizzle of olive oil, and crisp green beans makes for a satisfying vegetarian recipe that feels just right for any night of the week.
Here are a few ways to make it your own:
Pasta Alternatives
- Swap rigatoni for penne, fusilli, or farfalle; any pasta with ridges or curves that can hold the tomato sauce works well.
- For a lighter option, try whole wheat or lentil pasta for extra fiber and protein.
- If you prefer a low-carb version, use zucchini noodles or spaghetti squash instead of traditional pasta.
Vegetable Add-Ins
- Add extra vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or spinach for color and texture.
- Toss in a handful of cherry tomatoes near the end of cooking for a burst of sweetness.
- For a bit of heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or chopped chili peppers while sautéing the garlic.
Protein Boosts
- Keep it meatless with a can of drained chickpeas or white beans stirred in for a Mediterranean twist.
- For a heartier meal, add cooked Italian sausage, grilled chicken, or shrimp.
- Crumbled feta or shaved Parmesan on top adds richness and balance.
Flavor Variations
- Replace olive oil with butter for a slightly creamier flavor.
- Add a splash of balsamic vinegar or a squeeze of lemon juice before serving to brighten the dish.
- Mix in a few tablespoons of pesto or fresh basil for a fresh, aromatic finish.
This recipe is built around simple ingredients and flexible flavors. Whether you keep it vegetarian, add a little protein, or use what’s already in your kitchen, you’ll end up with a satisfying, budget-friendly meal that fits any night of the week.
For more ideas like this green beans with pasta recipe, check out my pasta recipes page.
Green beans with pasta is proof that the best meals don’t need to be complicated.
With just a few simple ingredients, you can turn everyday staples into a bright, hearty, and budget-friendly dish that fits right into your weeknight routine.
Whether you’re looking for a cozy meatless pasta to serve family-style or a quick bowl of comfort after a long day, this vegetarian recipe is one to keep on repeat; fresh, filling, and full of flavor, no matter the season.
The Recipe
Green Beans with Pasta and Tomatoes
Ingredients
- 1 pound rigatoni
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic sliced
- 2 small sweet onions sliced
- 16 ounces green beans
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 2 can diced tomatoes 15-16 ounces
Instructions
Preparing the Rigatoni
- Prepare the rigatoni according to the instructions on the package for al dente.
Preparing the Green Beans
- While the rigatoni is cooking, in a large skillet or pot, add the olive oil and bring to a high heat. Next, add the garlic and sauté until golden, about 1-2 minutes.
- Next, lower the heat to medium and add in the onions, green beans, salt, and ground black pepper, and sauté for 5 minutes, mixing occasionally.
Bringing it All Together
- Continuing on medium heat, add in the diced tomatoes and cook for 5 minutes, mixing occasionally.
- Finally, add in the cooked pasta and cook for 2 minutes, mixing occasionally to incorporate all of the ingredients.
How To Serve Green Beans With Pasta:
- Serve this green beans with pasta recipe, family style, in a large serving bowl.
Invent Your Recipe
Here are a few ways to make it your own: Pasta Alternatives
• Swap rigatoni for penne, fusilli, or farfalle — any pasta with ridges or curves that can hold the tomato sauce works well.
• For a lighter option, try whole wheat or lentil pasta for extra fiber and protein.
• If you prefer a low-carb version, use zucchini noodles or spaghetti squash instead of traditional pasta. Vegetable Add-Ins
• Add extra vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or spinach for color and texture.
• Toss in a handful of cherry tomatoes near the end of cooking for a burst of sweetness.
• For a bit of heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or chopped chili peppers while sautéing the garlic. Protein Boosts
• Keep it meatless with a can of drained chickpeas or white beans stirred in for a Mediterranean twist.
• For a heartier meal, add cooked Italian sausage, grilled chicken, or shrimp.
• Crumbled feta or shaved Parmesan on top adds richness and balance. Flavor Variations
• Replace olive oil with butter for a slightly creamier flavor.
• Add a splash of balsamic vinegar or a squeeze of lemon juice before serving to brighten the dish.
• Mix in a few tablespoons of pesto or fresh basil for a fresh, aromatic finish. This recipe is built around simple ingredients and flexible flavors. Whether you keep it vegetarian, add a little protein, or use what’s already in your kitchen, you’ll end up with a satisfying, budget-friendly meal that fits any night of the week.
Nutrition
