When the sun is shining, and the air is filled with the sweet scent of summer, there’s nothing quite like a bowl of Cherry Tomato and Basil Pasta to transport you to a sun-drenched Italian piazza. Imagine juicy, plump cherry tomatoes bursting with flavor, mingling with fresh basil that smells like a garden in full bloom. This dish is not just food; it’s an experience that dances on your taste buds and makes your kitchen smell like heaven.
I remember the first time I made this Cherry Tomato and Basil Pasta. I was trying to impress my friends at a dinner party, and let me tell you, they were not disappointed! With a few simple ingredients and minimal effort, I created something that looked like it came from a five-star restaurant. It’s perfect for everything—busy weeknights, lazy Sundays, or those moments when you want to feel fancy without breaking the bank. Get ready for an explosion of flavors that will have you coming back for seconds!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This Cherry Tomato and Basil Pasta is incredibly easy to prepare, making it ideal for weeknight dinners or last-minute guests
- The vibrant colors of fresh ingredients create an eye-catching dish that’s as pleasing to the eyes as it is to the palate
- You can customize this pasta with your favorite proteins or veggies for added versatility
- The combination of sweet cherry tomatoes and fragrant basil produces a flavor profile that’s simply irresistible
Ingredients for Cherry Tomato and Basil Pasta Recipe
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
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Pasta: Use any pasta shape you love—spaghetti or penne work great! Cook until al dente for the best texture.
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Cherry Tomatoes: Look for ripe cherry tomatoes; their sweetness will elevate this dish to flavorful heights.
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Fresh Basil: The fresher, the better! Snip off some leaves right before cooking for that aromatic punch.
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Olive Oil: Extra virgin olive oil adds richness and depth—don’t skimp on quality here!
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Garlic: Fresh garlic cloves infuse the pasta with a delightful aroma; minced or sliced works wonders.
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Parmesan Cheese: Grated parmesan brings a savory umami flavor that perfectly complements the freshness of tomatoes.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
How to Make Cherry Tomato and Basil Pasta Recipe
Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:
Step 1: Boil the Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add your chosen pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving about half a cup of pasta water—trust me on this one.
Step 2: Sauté Garlic
In a large skillet over medium heat, drizzle some olive oil and toss in minced garlic. Sauté for about one minute until fragrant but not browned; burnt garlic tastes like disappointment!
Step 3: Add Tomatoes
Toss in those lovely cherry tomatoes into your skillet with the sautéed garlic. Stir occasionally until they begin to soften and burst open, releasing their juices (about five minutes). Your kitchen will smell amazing!
Step 4: Mix It All Together
Add your drained pasta directly into the skillet along with reserved pasta water—a splash here helps create a silky sauce! Toss everything together gently so all that garlicky goodness coats every noodle.
Step 5: Incorporate Fresh Basil
Tear fresh basil leaves by hand (because we’re fancy like that) into the mixture. Stir just until wilted; no one wants sad basil hanging out alone.
Step 6: Serve It Up
Plate your beautiful creation and generously sprinkle grated parmesan on top. For an extra touch, drizzle with more olive oil if you’re feeling indulgent.
Transfer to plates and drizzle with sauce for the perfect finishing touch. Enjoy every bite while pretending you’re dining alfresco in Italy!
Now that you have perfected your Cherry Tomato and Basil Pasta Recipe, don’t be surprised if it becomes your new go-to dinner idea! Whether it’s date night or just you enjoying some ‘me’ time on the couch with Netflix, this dish promises happiness in every twirl of spaghetti!
You Must Know
- This delightful cherry tomato and basil pasta recipe is a vibrant dish that effortlessly combines fresh flavors for a quick weeknight meal
- It’s not only visually appealing but also incredibly satisfying, making it a go-to favorite for busy families and food enthusiasts alike
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by boiling your pasta in salted water. While it’s cooking, sauté garlic in olive oil. Once fragrant, toss in halved cherry tomatoes and cook until they burst with flavor. Drain the pasta, mix everything together, and finish with fresh basil for a dish that sings!
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap out cherry tomatoes for sun-dried tomatoes or add spinach for extra greens. Want a kick? A dash of red pepper flakes will spice things up! You can also substitute spaghetti with zoodles or gluten-free pasta to cater to dietary needs.
Storing & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, simply warm in a skillet over low heat with a splash of olive oil—this keeps the pasta saucy and delicious without turning it into a gluey mess!
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Always use fresh basil as it elevates the dish’s flavor immensely
- Avoid overcooking the pasta; al dente is key!
- Finally, make sure to reserve some pasta water to adjust sauce consistency if needed
It was one of those evenings when I had friends over, and I thought I’d impress them with this cherry tomato and basil pasta recipe. Their reactions were priceless—they kept asking for seconds while I secretly noted how easy it was to whip up!
FAQs :
What ingredients are needed for Cherry Tomato and Basil Pasta Recipe?
To make a delightful Cherry Tomato and Basil Pasta Recipe, you will need fresh cherry tomatoes, basil leaves, garlic, olive oil, pasta of your choice (like spaghetti or penne), salt, and pepper. Optionally, you can add grated Parmesan cheese or a splash of balsamic vinegar for extra flavor. Using high-quality ingredients ensures the best taste in this simple yet delicious dish, highlighting the freshness of each component.
How long does it take to prepare Cherry Tomato and Basil Pasta?
Preparing the Cherry Tomato and Basil Pasta Recipe is quick and easy. The total time usually ranges from 20 to 30 minutes. This includes about 10 minutes for chopping the vegetables and boiling the pasta. Cooking time for the pasta will vary based on the type you choose but typically takes around 8 to 12 minutes. This makes it an ideal dish for busy weeknights or when you want a tasty meal in no time.
Can I use other types of tomatoes in this recipe?
While cherry tomatoes are perfect for this recipe due to their sweetness and juiciness, you can certainly experiment with other tomato varieties. Grape tomatoes or even diced larger tomatoes can work well as substitutes. Keep in mind that using different types may slightly alter the flavor profile of your Cherry Tomato and Basil Pasta Recipe, but it can still be equally delicious with the right seasonings.
Is this Cherry Tomato and Basil Pasta Recipe suitable for meal prep?
Yes! The Cherry Tomato and Basil Pasta Recipe is great for meal prep. You can cook a large batch and store it in airtight containers in the refrigerator. It stays fresh for about three to four days. Just remember to undercook the pasta slightly if you’re planning to reheat it later, as it will continue cooking when warmed up again. This allows you to enjoy a quick lunch or dinner throughout your week!
Conclusion for Cherry Tomato and Basil Pasta Recipe :
In conclusion, the Cherry Tomato and Basil Pasta Recipe is a simple yet flavorful dish that highlights fresh ingredients. With just a handful of items like cherry tomatoes, basil, and garlic tossed with your favorite pasta, you create a delightful meal ready in under thirty minutes. Whether enjoyed on its own or paired with protein, this recipe is perfect for any occasion. Try it out today to experience the vibrant flavors of summer in every bite!
Cherry Tomato and Basil Pasta
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Cherry Tomato and Basil Pasta is a vibrant, easy-to-make dish that bursts with the flavors of summer. Featuring juicy cherry tomatoes and aromatic basil, this recipe transforms simple ingredients into a delightful meal ready in just 30 minutes. Perfect for busy weeknights or gatherings, it’s both visually appealing and satisfying, making it a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.
Ingredients
- 8 oz spaghetti
- 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, roughly chopped
- 3 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Boil salted water in a large pot. Cook spaghetti until al dente according to package instructions. Reserve 1/2 cup pasta water, then drain.
- In a skillet over medium heat, add olive oil and sauté minced garlic for about 1 minute until fragrant.
- Add halved cherry tomatoes to the skillet and cook for about 5 minutes until they soften and burst.
- Combine drained pasta with the tomato mixture, adding reserved pasta water as needed for sauce consistency.
- Stir in fresh basil and season with salt and pepper.
- Serve topped with grated Parmesan cheese.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Cooking
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 plate (approximately 250g)
- Calories: 365
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 320mg
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 48g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 12g
- Cholesterol: 10mg
