The vibrant colors of cherry tomato pasta dance on your plate, promising a burst of flavor with every bite. Imagine the sweet aroma wafting through your kitchen as you sauté garlic and tomatoes, creating a culinary masterpiece that feels like a warm hug. dill pickle pasta salad This dish is perfect for those cozy dinners when you want something quick yet satisfying. For more inspiration, check out this Quick Creamy Garlic Pasta recipe.
Cherry tomato pasta is not just a meal; it’s an experience. Recall those evenings where laughter fills the air and everyone gathers around the table, sharing stories and enjoying this delightful dish. cheesy stuffed shells Whether it’s a weeknight family dinner or an impromptu gathering with friends, this pasta will elevate any occasion to something magical. cheesy taco bombs.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This cherry tomato pasta is incredibly easy to whip up, making it perfect for busy weeknights
- The explosion of flavors from the fresh ingredients will leave your taste buds singing
- Its colorful presentation makes it an eye-catching dish for any gathering
- Plus, you can customize it with whatever veggies or proteins you have on hand!
My friends couldn’t stop raving about this cherry tomato pasta after I made it during movie night; they even asked for seconds!
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
Cherry Tomatoes: Choose ripe, juicy tomatoes for maximum sweetness and flavor; they should be vibrant in color.
Fresh Garlic: Opt for firm cloves to enhance the aromatic profile of the dish.
Pasta of Choice: I usually go for spaghetti or penne; these shapes hold sauce beautifully.
Olive Oil: Use high-quality extra virgin olive oil to enrich the flavors of your sauce.
Fresh Basil: Look for bright green leaves; they add a refreshing touch that complements the tomatoes.
Parmesan Cheese: Grate fresh cheese right before serving; it adds creaminess and depth to the dish.
Salt & Pepper: Essential seasonings that help all the flavors shine through.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below. Mediterranean bowl recipe.
Let’s Make it together
Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add your preferred pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside while reserving some pasta water.
Sauté Garlic and Tomatoes: In a large skillet over medium heat, pour in olive oil and add minced garlic. Sauté until fragrant and golden, about 1-2 minutes. Toss in halved cherry tomatoes and cook until they start to burst.
Add Seasonings: Sprinkle salt and freshly cracked pepper over the tomatoes. Stir well to combine and let them simmer, releasing their juices into a beautiful sauce.
Combine Pasta and Sauce: Add the cooked pasta directly into the skillet with your tomato mixture. Toss everything together gently, adding reserved pasta water as needed to create a silky sauce.
Add Fresh Herbs & Cheese: Tear fresh basil leaves over the pasta before serving, along with grated Parmesan cheese. Give everything one last good toss for an aromatic finish. For more inspiration, check out this Creamy Garlic Parmesan Pasta recipe.
This cherry tomato pasta is simple yet bursting with flavor! It’s perfect for impressing guests or treating yourself after a long day at work. Enjoy!
You Must Know
- Cherry tomato pasta is not just a dish; it’s a vibrant explosion of flavors on your plate
- The sweet burst of tomatoes paired with al dente pasta creates a delightful experience
- Plus, it’s quick to make and perfect for busy weeknights
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by sautéing garlic in olive oil before adding cherry tomatoes, then cook pasta while the sauce simmers. This method keeps everything fresh and delicious.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to toss in spinach or basil for extra flavor! You can also swap out cherry tomatoes for sun-dried ones if you’re feeling adventurous.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftover cherry tomato pasta 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.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Use ripe, juicy cherry tomatoes for the best flavor; they provide sweetness that elevates the dish
- Avoid overcooking pasta; it should be al dente to hold its shape and texture
- Fresh herbs added at the end will brighten up the flavors significantly
Sometimes I whip this up when my friends come over, and their faces light up with delight as they taste it. It’s one of those meals that leaves everyone smiling and asking for seconds!
FAQ
What type of pasta works best with cherry tomato sauce?
Any pasta shape works, but spaghetti or penne are great choices for this dish.
Can I use canned tomatoes instead of fresh?
Yes, canned tomatoes can work well when fresh ones are out of season.
How do I enhance the flavor of my cherry tomato pasta?
Add crushed red pepper flakes or balsamic vinegar for extra depth and zing!
Cherry Tomato Pasta
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Cherry Tomato Pasta is a vibrant, flavorful dish that transforms simple ingredients into a delightful meal perfect for any occasion. With its sweet, juicy tomatoes and aromatic garlic, this recipe is quick to prepare, making it ideal for busy weeknights or spontaneous gatherings. Elevate your dining experience with this colorful plate that brings friends and family together over delicious food.
Ingredients
- 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
- 3 cloves fresh garlic, minced
- 8 oz pasta (spaghetti or penne)
- 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
- 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, torn
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Cook the pasta: Boil salted water in a large pot. Add pasta and cook until al dente according to package instructions. Drain and reserve some pasta water.
- Sauté garlic and tomatoes: In a skillet over medium heat, heat olive oil. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant (about 1-2 minutes). Add halved cherry tomatoes and cook until they begin to burst.
- Add seasonings: Season with salt and pepper, stirring to combine. Let the tomatoes simmer for a few minutes until they release their juices.
- Combine pasta and sauce: Add the drained pasta to the skillet with tomato sauce, tossing well. If needed, add reserved pasta water to achieve desired sauce consistency.
- Finish: Stir in fresh basil leaves and top with grated Parmesan cheese before serving.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (220g)
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 47g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 12g
- Cholesterol: 10mg
Keywords: For added flavor, incorporate crushed red pepper flakes or balsamic vinegar. Feel free to mix in other vegetables like spinach or swap cherry tomatoes for sun-dried ones.
