The aroma of cherry tomatoes simmering in olive oil dances through the kitchen, promising a burst of flavor that can only be described as heavenly. As the pasta cooks to al dente perfection, you can almost hear the angels singing—well, maybe that’s just the sound of boiling water. For more inspiration, check out this dinner recipes recipe.
Ah, Cherry Tomato Pasta! This dish is not just a meal; it’s an experience filled with laughter and delightful memories. Whether it’s a cozy dinner for two or a family gathering, this recipe steals the show every time. For more inspiration, check out this lunch options recipe.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- The ease of preparation makes it perfect for busy weeknights
- With fresh ingredients, you’ll enjoy a vibrant flavor explosion
- Its bright colors make it visually appealing on any table
- Versatile enough to add your favorite proteins or veggies for a personalized twist
I remember the first time I made Cherry Tomato Pasta for my friends. They devoured it so quickly that I barely got to enjoy my own plate!
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
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Cherry Tomatoes: Choose plump, ripe tomatoes for maximum sweetness and juiciness—trust me, they make all the difference.
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Garlic: Fresh garlic adds a lovely aroma; always opt for whole cloves rather than pre-minced.
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Olive Oil: Use high-quality extra virgin olive oil to enhance flavor and texture—it’s worth splurging a little.
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Pasta: I recommend spaghetti or penne; both hold the sauce beautifully and provide that satisfying bite.
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Fresh Basil: Nothing beats fresh basil’s aromatic touch; chop it right before serving for optimal freshness.
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Parmesan Cheese: Grate fresh parmesan over the top for added richness; it’s like the cherry on top of your pasta!
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
How to Make Cherry Tomato Pasta
Prep Your Ingredients: Start by washing your cherry tomatoes and slicing them in half. Mince 3-4 garlic cloves for that aromatic kick we all love.
Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to boil. Add your chosen pasta and cook until al dente, following package instructions—usually about 8-10 minutes.
Sauté Garlic and Tomatoes: In a large skillet over medium heat, drizzle olive oil and add minced garlic. Sauté until fragrant, then toss in your halved cherry tomatoes until they soften and burst.
Add Seasoning: Sprinkle salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes into the pan as you stir gently—let those flavors mingle while you enjoy the delightful aromas wafting up!
Combine with Pasta: Drain your cooked pasta (reserve some pasta water) and toss it into the skillet with tomatoes. Add a splash of reserved water if needed for creaminess.
Finish with Fresh Basil: Stir in chopped basil right before serving. Top with freshly grated parmesan cheese for that final touch—your taste buds will thank you!
You Must Know
- Cherry tomato pasta is not just a meal; it’s a hug in a bowl
- The burst of flavors and colors makes it an instant family favorite
- Plus, it’s so quick to whip up, you can impress dinner guests without breaking a sweat!
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by sautéing garlic in olive oil, then add cherry tomatoes until they burst. Cook the pasta while the sauce simmers for maximum flavor infusion.
Add Your Touch
Experiment with fresh basil, mozzarella, or even a dash of chili flakes for added zest. You can also substitute gluten-free pasta or use zucchini noodles for a lighter twist.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of olive oil to maintain moisture.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- To achieve perfect cherry tomato pasta, always use ripe tomatoes for better flavor
- Don’t overcook your pasta; it should be al dente for the best texture
- A sprinkle of Parmesan cheese right before serving enhances the dish’s richness
Creating cherry tomato pasta brings back memories of my first dinner party where I charmed my friends with simple yet flavorful cooking. They were amazed and I felt like a culinary wizard!
FAQ
Can I use other types of tomatoes?
Yes, you can substitute cherry tomatoes with grape or even heirloom varieties for varied flavors.
Is cherry tomato pasta suitable for meal prep?
Absolutely! It stores well and tastes even better the next day as flavors meld.
Can I make this dish vegan?
Definitely! Just skip cheese or use vegan alternatives to keep it plant-based.
Cherry Tomato Pasta
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Cherry Tomato Pasta is a vibrant and flavorful dish that transforms simple ingredients into a culinary delight. Bursting with the sweetness of ripe cherry tomatoes, aromatic garlic, and fresh basil, this pasta dish is perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or enjoying a cozy night in, Cherry Tomato Pasta will impress your guests and satisfy your taste buds. With an easy preparation process and minimal cooking time, it’s a go-to recipe for busy weeknights that promises to deliver comfort and joy in every bite.
Ingredients
- 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
- 3–4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
- 8 oz spaghetti or penne pasta
- 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
- 1/3 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Red pepper flakes (optional)
Instructions
- Prep your ingredients by washing and halving the cherry tomatoes and mincing the garlic.
- Cook the pasta in salted boiling water according to package instructions until al dente (approximately 8-10 minutes).
- In a large skillet over medium heat, heat olive oil and sauté minced garlic until fragrant.
- Add halved cherry tomatoes to the skillet; cook until softened and slightly burst.
- Season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes; stir gently.
- Drain the cooked pasta (reserve some pasta water) and combine it with the tomato mixture, adding reserved water if needed for creaminess.
- Stir in chopped basil before serving and top with grated Parmesan.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Sautéing
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 plate (approximately 250g)
- Calories: 380
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 300mg
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 53g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 12g
- Cholesterol: 10mg
