Cherry Tomato & Basil Pasta

Introduction

When it comes to quick and easy dinners, this Cherry Tomato & Basil Pasta is an absolute winner. This recipe combines the freshness of ripe cherry tomatoes, the fragrant aroma of basil, and the boldness of garlic, all tossed with al dente pasta in a light olive oil sauce. It’s one of those dishes that’s perfect for busy weeknights when you want something delicious but don’t want to spend hours in the kitchen. Even the most discerning eaters will appreciate how simple ingredients can come together to create a meal that’s fresh, satisfying, and full of flavor. Plus, it’s one of those dishes that’s so easy to customize—whether you want to add extra veggies, a little protein, or keep it completely vegetarian, it’s versatile and delicious.

I recently made this for dinner, and it was a hit with my family! My teenage kids loved the balance of sweet tomatoes and savory Parmesan, and my partner couldn’t stop raving about the depth of flavor in such a simple dish. If you’re looking for something fresh, satisfying, and quick, this Cherry Tomato & Basil Pasta is the way to go.

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Why You’ll Love This Cherry Tomato & Basil Pasta

This Cherry Tomato & Basil Pasta is perfect for those moments when you need a fast, flavorful meal without too many ingredients. It’s a versatile dish that you can prepare with just a few pantry staples, and it takes less than 30 minutes from start to finish. Here’s why you’ll love it:

• Quick and Easy: With a prep time of just 10 minutes and cook time of 15 minutes, this dish is perfect for busy weeknights.
• Healthy and Fresh: Packed with fresh tomatoes and basil, it’s a light and healthy meal that still feels indulgent.
• Versatile: You can easily customize the recipe by adding grilled chicken, shrimp, or even roasted vegetables for extra flavor.
• Full of Flavor: The combination of sweet cherry tomatoes, fragrant garlic, and the earthiness of basil creates a simple but unforgettable flavor.
• Kid-Friendly: With its mild flavors and cheesy finish, it’s sure to please both kids and adults alike.

Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a beginner in the kitchen, this Cherry Tomato & Basil Pasta is sure to impress without overwhelming you.

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Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this flavorful Cherry Tomato & Basil Pasta:

• 12 oz pasta (spaghetti, linguine, or penne)
• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped or torn
• Optional: Extra olive oil for drizzling

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Instructions

Making Cherry Tomato & Basil Pasta is simple! Follow these easy steps for a delicious meal:

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

• Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
• Add the pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente (usually around 8-10 minutes, depending on the type of pasta).
• Before draining, reserve about 1 cup of pasta water (this will help loosen the sauce later). Drain the pasta and set it aside.

Step 2: Sauté the Garlic and Tomatoes

• While the pasta is cooking, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
• Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes, or until fragrant. Be sure to keep an eye on the garlic, as it can burn quickly.
• Add the cherry tomatoes to the skillet, cut-side down. Cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the tomatoes soften and start to release their juices.

Step 3: Add Seasoning

• Sprinkle in the red pepper flakes (if using), and season with salt and pepper to taste.
• Stir everything together and let it cook for another minute to allow the flavors to combine.

Step 4: Combine Pasta and Sauce

• Add the drained pasta to the skillet with the tomatoes and garlic.
• Toss to coat the pasta evenly in the sauce. If the mixture feels too dry, slowly add some reserved pasta water, a tablespoon at a time, until you reach your desired consistency.

Step 5: Finish with Basil and Cheese

• Stir in the chopped fresh basil and grated Parmesan cheese.
• Toss everything together gently until the pasta is well-coated and the cheese is melted.

Step 6: Serve

• Divide the pasta among serving plates.
• If desired, drizzle with a little extra olive oil and garnish with additional Parmesan and fresh basil for a burst of color and flavor.
• Serve warm and enjoy!

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Nutrition Facts

Here’s the approximate nutritional breakdown for each serving of Cherry Tomato & Basil Pasta:

• Serving Size: 1 plate (1/4 of the recipe)
• Calories: 350 kcal
• Sugar: 6g
• Sodium: 250mg
• Fat: 15g
  • Saturated Fat: 2g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 12g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 45g
  • Fiber: 3g
• Protein: 10g
• Cholesterol: 5mg

These values may vary slightly depending on the type of pasta you choose and any additional ingredients you may add (like extra cheese or protein).

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Preparation Time

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Total Time: 25 minutes

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How to Serve

Here are a few ideas for serving your Cherry Tomato & Basil Pasta:

• As a standalone dish: This pasta makes for a simple and satisfying meal on its own.
• With a side salad: Pair it with a fresh green salad to balance out the richness of the pasta.
• Add protein: Top with grilled chicken, shrimp, or a sprinkle of feta cheese for a more filling meal.
• Make it vegetarian: This dish is already vegetarian-friendly. You can add extra veggies like zucchini or bell peppers for even more nutrition.
• Garnish: Finish with a drizzle of extra olive oil, a squeeze of lemon, or even some toasted pine nuts for added texture and flavor.

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Additional Tips

1. Use fresh pasta: If you have the option, use fresh pasta for an even richer flavor and texture.
2. Choose ripe tomatoes: Fresh, ripe cherry tomatoes will give you the best results. If tomatoes are out of season, try roasting them to concentrate their flavor.
3. Add a protein: If you want to make this dish more filling, add grilled chicken, shrimp, or even sautéed mushrooms for extra texture and flavor.
4. Customize your herbs: While basil is the classic choice, feel free to mix in some oregano, thyme, or parsley for variation.
5. Make it creamy: Add a splash of cream or some ricotta cheese to the pasta for a richer, creamier sauce.

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FAQ Section

1. Can I use other types of pasta? Yes! Spaghetti, penne, or linguine all work well with this recipe.
2. Can I make this pasta gluten-free? Absolutely. Just use gluten-free pasta instead of regular pasta.
3. How can I make this dish spicier? You can add more red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce for an extra kick.
4. Can I prepare this pasta ahead of time? It’s best served fresh, but you can prepare the sauce and store it in the fridge. Just reheat and toss with the cooked pasta when you’re ready to serve.
5. Can I use dried basil instead of fresh basil? Fresh basil provides the best flavor, but if dried basil is all you have, you can use about 1 teaspoon in place of the fresh basil.
6. Can I freeze this pasta? It’s best to eat it fresh, but you can freeze the sauce. The pasta itself may become mushy after freezing.
7. What can I use instead of Parmesan cheese? You can use Pecorino Romano or even a dairy-free cheese for a vegan version.
8. What’s the best way to store leftovers? Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
9. Can I add other vegetables to this recipe? Yes! Zucchini, bell peppers, or spinach would all be great additions.
10. How can I make this pasta vegan? Use vegan pasta and a dairy-free cheese substitute to make it vegan-friendly.

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Conclusion

This Cherry Tomato & Basil Pasta is a perfect balance of simplicity and flavor, ideal for busy weeknights when you want something satisfying but quick. The sweet cherry tomatoes, fragrant basil, and tangy Parmesan combine with al dente pasta in a light olive oil sauce, making this dish a real crowd-pleaser. Plus, it’s so versatile—you can add extra vegetables, proteins, or make it your own in any way you choose. Give it a try tonight, and I’m sure it will become a family favorite in no time!

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