Sometimes, the simplest recipes are the most satisfying, and this Cherry Tomato Pasta is proof. Sweet, juicy cherry tomatoes burst into a luscious sauce, coating each strand of pasta in pure deliciousness. With just a handful of fresh ingredients, this dish delivers restaurant-quality flavor without the fuss. Trust me, once you try this, it’ll become a go-to for quick dinners and cozy nights in.
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Why You’ll Love Cherry Tomato Pasta
This recipe isn’t just about tossing ingredients together—it’s about savoring every bite. Whether you need a quick weeknight meal or an elegant dish for guests, this pasta has you covered.
Effortless and Quick: Minimal prep and only a few simple steps make this perfect for busy nights.
Fresh and Flavorful: The natural sweetness of cherry tomatoes shines, balanced by garlic, olive oil, and fresh basil.
Budget-Friendly: Uses pantry staples and a few fresh ingredients, making it a cost-effective meal.
Versatile: Works beautifully with different pasta shapes and add-ins like shrimp, chicken, or burrata.
Light yet Satisfying: A perfect balance of freshness and comfort, ideal for any season.
Ingredients in Cherry Tomato Pasta
Here’s what you’ll need to make this vibrant dish:
Cherry Tomatoes: The heart of the recipe! Their natural sweetness intensifies when cooked, creating a rich, juicy sauce.
Pasta: Spaghetti, linguine, or penne all work beautifully—choose your favorite.
Garlic: Adds warmth and depth, infusing the olive oil with its irresistible aroma.
Olive Oil: The key to a silky, flavorful sauce that ties everything together.
Red Pepper Flakes: Optional, but a little heat elevates the flavors.
Basil: Fresh basil brings a burst of herbal brightness to balance the rich sauce.
Parmesan Cheese: For a salty, umami-packed finish.
Salt & Pepper: Simple seasonings that enhance all the flavors.
(Note: The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.)
Instructions
Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the pasta until al dente. Reserve some pasta water before draining.
Sauté the Garlic: In a large pan, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and cook until fragrant, about 30 seconds.
Add the Tomatoes: Toss in the cherry tomatoes and a pinch of salt. Cook until they start to burst, releasing their sweet juices. Gently press some with a spoon to create a saucy texture.
Season the Sauce: Sprinkle in red pepper flakes for heat, if using. Stir everything together and let the flavors meld for a couple of minutes.
Combine with Pasta: Add the drained pasta to the pan, tossing to coat in the tomato sauce. If needed, add a splash of reserved pasta water for a silky consistency.
Finish with Basil and Cheese: Remove from heat and stir in fresh basil leaves. Top with freshly grated Parmesan and a drizzle of olive oil.
Serve and Enjoy: Plate up your pasta, garnish with extra basil, and dig in!
How to Serve Cherry Tomato Pasta
With a Side Salad: A simple arugula or mixed greens salad with balsamic dressing pairs beautifully.
Garlic Bread: Perfect for soaking up every last bit of that delicious tomato sauce.
Grilled Protein: Serve with grilled chicken, shrimp, or tofu for added protein.
Glass of Wine: A crisp white or light red wine complements the fresh flavors perfectly.
Additional Tips
Use Good Quality Olive Oil: Since this dish is simple, high-quality olive oil makes a big difference.
Don’t Overcook the Garlic: It should be golden, not browned, to avoid bitterness.
Make It Creamy: Stir in a splash of heavy cream or burrata for a luscious twist.
Storage Tips: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat gently with a splash of water or olive oil.
FAQ Section
Q1: Can I use grape tomatoes instead of cherry tomatoes?
A1: Yes! Grape tomatoes work just as well and will still create a delicious sauce.
Q2: Can I make this dish gluten-free?
A2: Absolutely! Just swap in your favorite gluten-free pasta.
Q3: What’s the best pasta shape for this recipe?
A3: Spaghetti and linguine are great for twirling, but penne or fusilli also work well to catch the sauce.
Q4: Can I add protein to this dish?
A4: Yes! Grilled chicken, shrimp, or even chickpeas are great additions.
Q5: How do I store and reheat leftovers?
A5: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stove with a splash of water to loosen the sauce.
Q6: Can I make this dairy-free?
A6: Yes! Simply omit the Parmesan or use a dairy-free alternative.
Q7: How can I make the sauce thicker?
A7: Let the tomatoes cook down a bit longer or mash them slightly for a richer consistency.
Q8: What’s the best way to add more flavor?
A8: A splash of balsamic vinegar or a pinch of sugar enhances the natural sweetness of the tomatoes.
Q9: Can I use canned tomatoes instead?
A9: Fresh is best for this dish, but canned cherry tomatoes can work in a pinch.
Q10: Can I meal-prep this dish?
A10: The sauce can be made ahead and stored in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just cook fresh pasta when ready to serve.
Final Thoughts
This Cherry Tomato Pasta is proof that simple ingredients can create a stunning dish. It’s fresh, flavorful, and incredibly easy to make perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or sharing with loved ones, this pasta is guaranteed to impress. So grab those cherry tomatoes and get cooking!
Print
Cherry Tomato Pasta
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Cherry Tomato Pasta is a simple yet flavorful dish that’s perfect for busy weeknights. Juicy cherry tomatoes burst into a light, savory sauce, coating tender pasta with fresh basil and garlic for a delicious homemade meal. This easy, healthy recipe is ideal for lunch or dinner, packed with nutrients and vibrant Mediterranean flavors. Try this high-protein recipe for a quick dinner idea that’s both satisfying and wholesome.
Ingredients
- 12 oz pasta (spaghetti, penne, or your choice)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 3 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 cup fresh basil, chopped
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
- 1/2 cup reserved pasta water
Instructions
- Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve ½ cup of pasta water, then drain.
- In a large pan, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add garlic and red pepper flakes, sautéing for 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Add cherry tomatoes, salt, and black pepper. Cook for 6-8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until tomatoes soften and release juices.
- Add the cooked pasta and reserved pasta water, stirring to combine. Let it cook for 2 more minutes until the sauce thickens slightly.
- Remove from heat, stir in fresh basil, and top with Parmesan if using.
- Serve warm and enjoy!
Notes
- Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve ½ cup of pasta water, then drain.
- In a large pan, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add garlic and red pepper flakes, sautéing for 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Add cherry tomatoes, salt, and black pepper. Cook for 6-8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until tomatoes soften and release juices.
- Add the cooked pasta and reserved pasta water, stirring to combine. Let it cook for 2 more minutes until the sauce thickens slightly.
- Remove from heat, stir in fresh basil, and top with Parmesan if using.
- Serve warm and enjoy!
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 plate
- Calories: 350 kcal
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 300 mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 55g
- Fiber: 5g
- Protein: 10g
- Cholesterol: 5mg