Brown Sugar and Coconut Body Scrub Exfoliates 
Get The Product!Indulging in a plate of cherry tomato pasta is like wrapping yourself in a warm, cozy blanket on a chilly evening. The vibrant red tomatoes burst with flavor, mingling with fragrant garlic and fresh herbs to create a dish that sings with life. Picture this: you take your first bite, and the sweet juiciness of the tomatoes dances across your palate, while the al dente pasta provides that perfect toothsome texture. It’s a meal that makes you feel like you’ve hit the culinary jackpot.
This delightful recipe brings back memories of summer picnics in my backyard, where laughter echoed and delicious food was abundant. I remember my grandmother tossing this pasta together with ease, her seasoned hands working magic as she taught me the importance of simple ingredients. Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or impressing friends at a gathering, cherry tomato pasta is always a winner. For more inspiration, check out this dinner recipes recipe.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This cherry tomato pasta recipe is incredibly easy to whip up, making it perfect for busy lifestyles
- The bright flavors will transport you to sunny Italian streets with every bite
- Its eye-catching colors make it an absolute showstopper at dinner parties
- Plus, it’s versatile enough to adapt based on seasonal ingredients or personal preferences!
Sharing cherry tomato pasta at family gatherings always led to smiles and second helpings as everyone enjoyed its comforting flavors.
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
Pasta of Your Choice: I recommend using spaghetti or penne for their ability to hold sauce beautifully.
Cherry Tomatoes: Opt for ripe, juicy tomatoes for maximum sweetness and flavor; they’re the star of this show!
Fresh Garlic: Use 3-4 cloves; fresh garlic elevates the dish’s aroma and taste dramatically.
Olive Oil: A good quality extra virgin olive oil adds richness; don’t skimp here!
Fresh Basil: This herb adds brightness; use whole leaves for an aromatic explosion.
Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated cheese enhances creaminess; it’s like the cherry on top of this dish.
Salt and Pepper: These staples are essential for seasoning, so adjust them according to your taste.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
How to Make Cherry Tomato Pasta
Cook the Pasta: Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add your chosen pasta and cook according to package directions until al dente. Remember to reserve about a cup of pasta water before draining!
Sauté Garlic and Tomatoes: In a large skillet over medium heat, add olive oil. Once hot, toss in minced garlic and sauté until fragrant—about 30 seconds—before adding halved cherry tomatoes.
Let Them Burst!: Stir occasionally until the tomatoes soften and release their juices—about 5-7 minutes should do it! Enjoy that heavenly aroma wafting through your kitchen.
Add Seasoning and Pasta Water: Sprinkle salt and freshly cracked pepper into the mix. Carefully stir in about half a cup of reserved pasta water as you combine everything; this helps create that luscious sauce we all love.
Toss It All Together: Add drained pasta directly into the skillet with sautéed tomatoes. Toss gently until all ingredients are well combined—this is where magic happens!
Finish with Basil and Cheese: Remove from heat and fold in fresh basil leaves along with grated Parmesan cheese for added creaminess! Serve immediately while still warm.
Now that you’ve mastered this cherry tomato pasta recipe, get ready for compliments from friends and family alike! Enjoy every last bite as you bask in your culinary glory.
You Must Know
- Cherry Tomato Pasta is a quick, flavorful dish that requires minimal ingredients yet offers maximum satisfaction
- The sweet burst of the tomatoes combined with fragrant herbs creates a symphony of flavors that dance on your palate
- It’s a go-to for busy weeknights or casual dinner parties
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by roasting cherry tomatoes until they burst, while pasta cooks simultaneously. This method infuses the noodles with rich flavors and maximizes efficiency.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap in vegetables like zucchini or spinach, or add proteins such as grilled chicken or shrimp for a heartier meal.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stove or microwave, adding a splash of olive oil to restore moisture.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- For perfectly cooked pasta, aim for al dente texture; it will absorb sauce better
- Use fresh basil and garlic for maximum flavor impact, and don’t skip the cheese – it’s essential!
- A splash of lemon juice brightens up the whole dish beautifully
Sometimes I whip up Cherry Tomato Pasta on a whim, and my friends rave about it every time. It seems to spark joy and delicious discussions at every gathering.
FAQ
Can I use other types of tomatoes?
Yes, you can substitute other tomatoes; just adjust cooking times accordingly for similar results.
Is Cherry Tomato Pasta suitable for meal prep?
Definitely! This dish stores well and makes great leftovers for quick lunches. For more inspiration, check out this lunch ideas recipe.
What can I pair with Cherry Tomato Pasta?
Consider serving it with garlic bread or a fresh salad for a complete meal experience.
Cherry Tomato Pasta
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Cherry Tomato Pasta is a vibrant and flavorful dish that perfectly balances sweet cherry tomatoes, fragrant garlic, and fresh basil with al dente pasta. This quick and easy recipe brings the essence of summer into your kitchen, making it an ideal choice for weeknight dinners or casual gatherings. With just a handful of ingredients, you can create a delicious meal that will impress everyone at the table.
Ingredients
- 8 oz spaghetti or penne
- 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
- 1 cup fresh basil leaves
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Cook the pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to boil. Add pasta and cook until al dente according to package directions. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
- Sauté garlic and tomatoes: In a large skillet over medium heat, heat olive oil. Add minced garlic and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant. Add halved cherry tomatoes.
- Let them burst: Stir occasionally for about 5-7 minutes until tomatoes soften and release juices.
- Season and combine: Sprinkle in salt and pepper. Stir in half a cup of reserved pasta water to create sauce.
- Toss everything together: Add drained pasta to the skillet with tomatoes, tossing gently to combine.
- Finish off: Remove from heat; fold in fresh basil and Parmesan cheese before serving warm.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Sautéing
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 plate (approximately 300g)
- Calories: 480
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 350mg
- Fat: 21g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 15g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 59g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 14g
- Cholesterol: 10mg
