This Easy Cherry Tomato Basil Pasta is bursting with fresh flavors! Juicy cherry tomatoes, fragrant basil, and nutty Parmesan all come together in a quick and tasty dish.
One of my favorites for busy nights, this pasta is ready in no time! Plus, the smell of garlic cooking is like a warm hug in the kitchen. Who could resist? 🍝
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pasta: I like using spaghetti for this dish, but you can swap it for penne, fusilli, or any gluten-free pasta if needed. Just remember to adjust cooking times according to the type you choose!
Cherry Tomatoes: Fresh cherry tomatoes are ideal, but if they aren’t in season, canned diced tomatoes work too. They’ll give a slightly different texture but will still taste great.
Garlic: Fresh garlic gives the best flavor, but if you’re short on time, granulated garlic can be a good substitute. Use 1/8 teaspoon for each clove to keep the taste balanced.
Basil: Fresh basil is a must for that vibrant flavor! If basil isn’t available, try using fresh parsley or spinach, but remember they bring different flavors. Dried basil can also work in a pinch—use about 1 tablespoon.
Parmesan: I always use freshly grated Parmesan for the best taste and creaminess. If you need a dairy-free option, try nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor without the dairy.
How Do You Ensure Your Tomatoes Are Perfectly Cooked?
Getting those cherry tomatoes just right is key to this dish! You want them to burst and release their juices, adding flavor to the pasta.
- Start with medium heat and add your tomatoes after the garlic is fragrant; this prevents burning.
- Cook them for 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally. You’ll notice they will soften and start to release their sweet juices.
- Season them while cooking with salt and pepper, which helps enhance their natural sweetness.
Perfectly cooked tomatoes add a freshness that really elevates your pasta dish! Enjoy! 🍅
Easy Cherry Tomato Basil Pasta With Garlic And Parmesan
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 12 oz (340 g) spaghetti or your favorite pasta
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1/2 cup fresh basil leaves, roughly chopped
- 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tbsp unsalted butter (optional, for extra richness)
- Extra basil leaves and Parmesan for garnish
Time Needed:
This delicious pasta dish will take about 20 minutes to prepare and cook. In just a short while, you’ll have a wonderful, fresh meal ready to enjoy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to boil. Once boiling, add your spaghetti or chosen pasta, and cook according to the package instructions until al dente (still firm). Remember to reserve 1 cup of the pasta cooking water before you drain it. This water will help loosen up the sauce later!
2. Sauté the Garlic:
While the pasta cooks, heat up the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté it for about a minute. You’ll want it to be fragrant but be cautious not to let it brown—burnt garlic can taste bitter!
3. Cook the Tomatoes:
Next, toss in the halved cherry tomatoes to the skillet. Continue to cook, stirring occasionally, for about 5 to 7 minutes. Your goal is to soften the tomatoes and let them release their sweet juices. This is where the magic happens!
4. Season it Up:
Once the tomatoes are soft, season the mixture with salt, freshly ground black pepper, and red pepper flakes if you’re in the mood for a little heat. Stir everything together to combine the flavors.
5. Combine the Pasta and Sauce:
Now, add the drained pasta directly to the skillet with the tomatoes. Toss everything together to combine, ensuring that the pasta gets coated in all the delicious juices. If it seems a bit dry, gradually add some of the reserved pasta water until you reach your desired consistency.
6. Add Finishing Touches:
If you want an extra touch of richness, stir in the butter (if using), along with the chopped basil leaves and freshly grated Parmesan cheese. Mix it all well until everything is incorporated and creamy.
7. Taste and Serve:
Take a moment to taste your pasta and adjust the seasoning if needed. Then, serve the pasta hot, garnished with extra basil leaves and a sprinkle of Parmesan on top. Enjoy every bite of this quick, flavorful dish!
Bon appétit! 🌿🍝
FAQ: Easy Cherry Tomato Basil Pasta With Garlic And Parmesan
Can I Use Different Pasta Shapes?
Absolutely! While spaghetti is a classic choice, feel free to use penne, fusilli, or any pasta you prefer. Just keep an eye on the cooking time to ensure it’s perfectly al dente!
What Can I Substitute for Fresh Basil?
If fresh basil is unavailable, try using fresh parsley, spinach, or even arugula for a different flavor. In case of herb shortage, dried basil can work as well—use about 1 tablespoon, but add it earlier to let the flavors infuse!
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, just warm them gently on the stove with a splash of water or olive oil to loosen the sauce.
Can I Add Protein to This Dish?
Definitely! Grilled chicken, shrimp, or even chickpeas are great additions to make this a heartier meal. Make sure to cook the protein separately and add it to the pasta just before serving!
