Description
This Cherry Tomato & Basil Pasta is a simple yet delicious dish that’s perfect for a quick weeknight meal. Juicy cherry tomatoes, fragrant fresh basil, and garlic come together with al dente pasta in a light olive oil sauce that’s as flavorful as it is easy to make. Whether you’re a busy professional or a beginner in the kitchen, this recipe is a go-to for a satisfying meal in under 30 minutes.
Ingredients
Scale
- 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
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta:
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
- Sauté the Garlic and Tomatoes:
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes, or until fragrant. Be careful not to let the garlic burn.
- Stir in the cherry tomatoes and cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the tomatoes soften and start to release their juices.
- Add Seasoning:
- Add red pepper flakes (if using), and season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Stir and let the flavors combine for another minute.
- Combine Pasta and Sauce:
- Add the cooked pasta to the skillet with the tomato mixture. Toss to coat the pasta evenly in the sauce.
- If the mixture seems dry, gradually add reserved pasta water, a few tablespoons at a time, until the desired consistency is reached.
- Finish with Basil and Cheese:
- Stir in the fresh basil leaves and grated Parmesan cheese. Toss gently to combine.
- Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
- Serve:
- Divide the pasta among serving plates.
- Drizzle with extra olive oil if desired, and garnish with additional Parmesan and basil.
Notes
- Feel free to use any pasta you have on hand, such as spaghetti, linguine, or penne.
- If you like a little spice, the red pepper flakes add a nice kick, but they can be omitted for a milder flavor.
- Fresh basil is key to the fresh flavor in this recipe, so don’t substitute with dried basil if possible.
- To make this a more filling meal, add grilled chicken, shrimp, or roasted vegetables as a topping.
- This dish pairs well with a simple side salad and garlic bread.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Stovetop, Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 plate (1/4 of the recipe)
- Calories: 350 kcal
- Sugar: 6 g
- Sodium: 250 mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 10g
- Cholesterol: 5mg