This quick cherry tomato pasta is bright and full of flavor, perfect for a busy day. With just a handful of ingredients, you can whip up a delicious meal in just 20 minutes!
Honestly, who doesn’t love a pasta dish that cooks faster than your laundry? I usually pair it with a sprinkle of cheese and a side salad for a complete meal that feels fancy without the fuss!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pasta: Spaghetti is classic for this dish, but you can switch things up with penne or fusilli. Gluten-free pasta works great too, just ensure it’s cooked al dente to hold up with the sauce.
Cherry Tomatoes: These little gems bring sweetness. If they’re not in season, try using canned diced tomatoes instead. They offer a similar flavor and can be just as delicious.
Garlic: Fresh garlic is best, but in a pinch, garlic powder can work. Just use about 1/8 teaspoon of it to avoid overpowering the dish.
Parmesan Cheese: I love freshly grated Parmesan for its taste. If you need a dairy-free option, nutritional yeast can add a nice cheesy flavor without the lactose.
Fresh Basil: This adds a wonderful aroma. If you don’t have fresh basil, dried basil can be used, but reduce the amount as it’s stronger. I always prefer fresh when possible.
How Do I Ensure My Pasta Is Cooked Perfectly?
Cooking pasta to perfection can really elevate your dish! Here’s how to get it just right:
- Start with a large pot of salted water; it should taste like the sea!
- Bring it to a rolling boil before adding your pasta. Check the package for cooking times and set a timer.
- Test your pasta a minute before the time is up. It should be firm but not hard (we call this al dente).
Don’t forget to reserve some pasta water before draining! This starchy water is golden for thinning sauces and helps them stick to the pasta beautifully.
Easy 20-Minute Cherry Tomato Pasta
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 8 oz (225 g) spaghetti or your favorite pasta
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, thinly sliced
- 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, torn
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus more for serving
- Optional: a handful of baby spinach or arugula
Time Needed:
This recipe takes approximately 20 minutes from start to finish. With just a few simple steps, you can enjoy a delightful pasta dish in no time!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Once boiling, add the spaghetti (or your choice of pasta). Cook according to the package instructions until it’s al dente, usually about 8-10 minutes. Remember to reserve about 1/2 cup of the pasta water before draining the pasta, then set it aside.
2. Sauté the Garlic:
While your pasta is cooking, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the sliced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until it becomes fragrant, but be careful not to let it brown.
3. Cook the Cherry Tomatoes:
Add the halved cherry tomatoes and the optional red pepper flakes to the skillet. Stir occasionally and cook for about 5-7 minutes. You want the tomatoes to soften and start releasing their juices, creating a lovely sauce.
4. Season it Up:
Once the tomatoes have softened, season your sauce with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. This is where you can adjust the flavors to your liking!
5. Combine Pasta and Sauce:
Next, add the drained pasta to the skillet with the tomatoes. Gently toss everything together, and don’t forget to add a bit of the reserved pasta water. This will help loosen the sauce and make it stick to the pasta nicely.
6. Finish with Basil and Cheese:
Now it’s time to add the torn fresh basil and grated Parmesan cheese to your pasta. Stir everything together until the cheese is melted and the pasta is well coated. If you’d like, toss in a handful of baby spinach or arugula at this point and let them wilt slightly.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Your delicious cherry tomato pasta is ready! Serve it immediately, topping each plate with extra Parmesan and fresh basil if desired. Enjoy your lovely meal!
FAQ for Easy 20-Minute Cherry Tomato Pasta
Can I Use Other Types of Pasta?
Absolutely! While spaghetti is a classic choice, you can use any pasta you like, such as penne, fusilli, or even gluten-free options. Just be sure to follow the cooking instructions specific to the pasta you choose.
What If I Don’t Have Fresh Basil?
No worries! If you don’t have fresh basil, you can use dried basil instead, but use about one-third of the amount, as dried herbs are more potent. Alternatively, you can substitute with other fresh herbs like parsley or oregano for a different flavor twist!
How Can I Make This Pasta Dish Vegan?
To adapt this recipe for a vegan diet, simply omit the Parmesan cheese or substitute it with nutritional yeast or a dairy-free cheese alternative. The dish will still be tasty and flavorful!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, add a splash of water or olive oil to prevent the pasta from drying out, and warm it gently on the stove or in the microwave.
