When you’re looking for a quick, fresh, and delicious meal, this cherry tomato pasta is the perfect answer. It’s light, healthy, and bursting with flavor, making it an ideal choice for a weeknight dinner or a casual get-together. Whether you’re feeding your family or entertaining guests, this recipe is sure to please everyone at the table. Plus, it’s so simple that it can be on your table in just 20 minutes!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe?

• Bright Flavors: The combination of juicy cherry tomatoes, fresh basil, and garlic creates a vibrant and refreshing flavor that’s perfect for any occasion.
• Light and Healthy: Unlike heavier pasta dishes, this one is made with just a few simple ingredients, keeping it light and healthy.
• Customizable: Whether you want to add more spice, switch up the herbs, or add some protein, the possibilities are endless.
• Quick and Easy: With just a handful of ingredients and minimal prep time, this dish is perfect for busy weeknights when you want something delicious without spending hours in the kitchen.

Ingredients 

1.Cherry Tomatoes: You’ll need about two pints of fresh cherry tomatoes. If you can’t find cherry tomatoes, grape tomatoes or regular diced tomatoes work just as well.
2.Garlic: Use at least three cloves of garlic to add a rich, savory flavor to the dish.
3.Olive Oil: A good-quality extra virgin olive oil is key to making the sauce taste amazing.
4.Red Pepper Flakes: Optional, but a little heat from red pepper flakes can take this dish to the next level.
5.Fresh Basil: Fresh basil is a must for this recipe. It adds a burst of freshness that dried basil just can’t match.
6.Pasta: Use your favorite type of pasta, such as spaghetti, angel hair, or shells.
7.Parmesan Cheese: Optional, but adding some grated Parmesan on top gives the dish a deliciously salty and nutty flavor.
8.Salt: A pinch of salt will help bring out all the flavors in the dish.

How to Make Cherry Tomato Pasta?

1. Heat the Olive Oil: Heat olive oil over medium heat.
2. Cook the Cherry Tomatoes: Add the cherry tomatoes and cook them until they begin to soften and burst. This should take about 5-7 minutes.
3. Add Garlic and Spices: Once the tomatoes are softened, add the minced garlic, a pinch of salt, and red pepper flakes if using.
4. Create the Sauce: Use the back of a spoon or a potato masher to gently crush the tomatoes, releasing their juices to create a flavorful sauce.
5. Cook the Pasta: As the tomatoes are simmering, prepare your pasta following the instructions on the package.. Be sure to reserve about 1/3 cup of pasta water before draining.
6. Combine Pasta and Sauce: Add the cooked pasta to the skillet with the tomato sauce. Pour in the reserved pasta water and toss everything together until the pasta is well coated with the sauce.
7. Finish with Basil and Parmesan: Add fresh basil leaves and sprinkle some grated Parmesan cheese on top.

Recipe Tips

Here are some helpful tips to make sure your Pasta with Cherry Tomatoes turns out perfectly:

• Save the Pasta Water: The starchy water left over from cooking the pasta helps the sauce cling to the noodles and makes it extra silky.
• Smash the Tomatoes Gently: Crushing the tomatoes helps release their juices, but be careful not to overdo it, or your sauce might become too watery.
• Don’t Overcook the Pasta: Cook the pasta until it’s al dente, meaning it’s tender but still has a slight bite.
• Handle Basil with Care: Basil is a delicate herb, so it’s best to stack the leaves, roll them up, and slice them into thin strips. This method, called chiffonade, keeps the basil from turning black when cooked.

Popular Substitutions & Additions

This recipe is super versatile, and you can easily customize it to your liking:

• Switch Out the Tomatoes: If cherry tomatoes aren’t available, grape tomatoes or even regular diced tomatoes work great. Just be sure to peel larger tomatoes if you use them.
• Add Protein: For a more filling meal, add some grilled chicken, shrimp, or even white beans.
• Experiment with Cheese: While Parmesan is delicious, feel free to try other cheeses like mozzarella, goat cheese, or a vegan option like nutritional yeast.
• Make it Spicier: If you love heat, add extra red pepper flakes or even some chopped chili peppers.

What to Serve with Cherry Tomato Pasta?

• Grilled Chicken: A simple grilled chicken breast complements the fresh flavors of the pasta.
• Green Salad: A fresh green salad with a light vinaigrette makes for a perfect side dish.
• Grilled Shrimp: For a seafood twist, grilled shrimp pairs beautifully with this pasta.

FAQ on Cherry Tomato Pasta

Here are some of the frequently asked questions on cherry tomato pasta.

1.Can I make this Dish vegan?

Yes! Simply omit the Parmesan cheese or replace it with nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor without the dairy.

2.Can I freeze the sauce?

Yes, you can freeze the tomato sauce for up to three months. Just thaw it in the fridge overnight and reheat it before serving with freshly cooked pasta.

Conclusion

There you have it—a simple, delicious, and versatile Pasta with Cherry Tomatoes recipe that’s sure to become a favorite in your household. Whether you’re making it for a quick weeknight dinner or serving it to guests, this dish is always a hit. Don’t forget to subscribe to my newsletter for more easy and tasty recipes, and leave a comment below letting me know how you customized your pasta!