Cherry Tomato Pasta is a dish that dances on your taste buds, bursting with sweet, juicy tomatoes, fragrant garlic, and the comforting embrace of al dente pasta. Imagine twirling your fork through a vibrant medley of colors and flavors that make you feel like you’re dining in a sun-soaked Italian bistro, even if you’re just in your kitchen wearing mismatched socks. For more inspiration, check out this lunch ideas recipe.
The first time I made Cherry Tomato Pasta was during a frantic weeknight dinner rush. I had friends over, the clock was ticking, and my fridge looked like it had been raided by hungry raccoons. With just a handful of ingredients, this dish saved the day and turned chaos into a culinary masterpiece. It’s perfect for those lazy summer evenings or any time you want to impress without breaking a sweat. For more inspiration, check out this dinner recipes recipe.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This Cherry Tomato Pasta is not only easy to whip up but also delights with its fresh flavors
- Its vibrant colors will have your dinner guests oohing and aahing over their plates
- You can easily customize it based on what you have lying around the kitchen
- Plus, it’s versatile enough for lunch or dinner any day of the week!
I remember when I served this dish for the first time; my friends couldn’t stop raving about how something so simple could taste so divine.
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
Pasta: Use your favorite type—spaghetti or penne works best for holding the sauce.
Cherry Tomatoes: Look for plump, ripe tomatoes; they add sweetness and color to the dish.
Garlic: Fresh garlic cloves are essential for that aromatic kick; don’t skimp!
Olive Oil: Extra virgin olive oil adds richness; drizzle generously for flavor.
Fresh Basil: Nothing beats fresh basil; it brightens up the entire dish with its aroma.
Parmesan Cheese: Grate some fresh Parmesan on top to elevate the flavor profile.
Salt and Pepper: Season to taste; these basics enhance all other flavors beautifully.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
How to Make Cherry Tomato Pasta
Cooking the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to boil. Add your choice of pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Remember to reserve about a cup of pasta water before draining.
Sautéing the Garlic: In a large skillet over medium heat, add olive oil. Once shimmering, toss in minced garlic and sauté until fragrant—about 1-2 minutes. Be careful not to brown it!
Add in Cherry Tomatoes: Toss in halved cherry tomatoes once the garlic releases its wonderful aroma. Cook until they soften and start to burst—about 5-7 minutes. You want them juicy but not completely mushy.
Combining Flavors: Add the drained pasta into the skillet with tomatoes. Stir gently as you pour in some reserved pasta water gradually until everything is well coated and heavenly fragrant.
Finishing Touches: Remove from heat and mix in freshly torn basil leaves along with salt and pepper to taste. For an indulgent finish, sprinkle freshly grated Parmesan cheese on top right before serving.
With every bite of this Cherry Tomato Pasta, you’ll experience an explosion of flavors that will transport you straight to Italy—without needing an expensive plane ticket! So roll up those sleeves and get cooking; you’ll be glad you did!
You Must Know
- Cherry Tomato Pasta is a quick, delicious meal that celebrates fresh ingredients
- The vibrant colors and the aroma of garlic will make your kitchen feel like a gourmet restaurant
- Plus, it’s perfect for busy weeknights or fancy dinner parties
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by boiling water for the pasta while you sauté garlic and cherry tomatoes in olive oil. This way, everything comes together perfectly and at the right time.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap in different herbs like basil or oregano, or add proteins like grilled chicken or shrimp for extra flavor and texture.
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 keep it moist.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Always use ripe cherry tomatoes; they burst with flavor and sweetness
- Don’t overcook your pasta; al dente is key for perfect texture
- Reserve some pasta water; it helps to create a silky sauce consistency
Cooking this dish always reminds me of the time I made it for friends who claimed they didn’t like tomatoes. They devoured every last bite and begged for the recipe!
FAQ
What can I substitute if I can’t find cherry tomatoes?
You can use grape tomatoes or even diced regular tomatoes as alternatives.
Can I make Cherry Tomato Pasta vegan?
Absolutely! Just skip cheese or use vegan alternatives for a delicious plant-based dish.
How can I add more protein to Cherry Tomato Pasta?
Try adding grilled chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas for a hearty meal option.
Cherry Tomato Pasta
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Cherry Tomato Pasta is a vibrant, flavorful dish that takes just minutes to prepare. Bursting with the sweetness of ripe cherry tomatoes and fragrant garlic, this quick pasta recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or impressing guests at dinner parties. Each forkful delivers a taste of summer, elevating your meal with minimal effort. Experience the joy of fresh ingredients in a dish that transports you straight to an Italian bistro.
Ingredients
- 8 oz spaghetti or penne pasta
- 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 3 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
- 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, torn
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Bring a large pot of salted water to boil. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente, reserving 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
- In a large skillet over medium heat, add olive oil. Once shimmering, sauté minced garlic for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
- Add halved cherry tomatoes and cook for about 5-7 minutes until softened but not mushy.
- Combine drained pasta with the tomato mixture in the skillet, adding reserved pasta water gradually until well coated.
- Remove from heat and stir in torn basil leaves, salt, pepper, and top with grated Parmesan cheese before serving.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Boiling/Sautéing
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 plate (about 325g)
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 350mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 62g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 12g
- Cholesterol: 10mg
