This Cherry Tomato and Basil Pasta is a burst of flavor in every bite! Fresh cherry tomatoes and fragrant basil make this dish vibrant and delightful. Plus, it’s super easy to whip up!
Nothing beats a quick dinner that tastes amazing. I like to sprinkle a bit of cheese on top—because who can resist cheese? It makes this dish even better! 🧀🍝
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pasta: I recommend using small shells or cavatappi, as they’re great for holding sauce. If you don’t have those, any short pasta like fusilli or penne works well too. Gluten-free pasta is also an option if preferred.
Cherry Tomatoes: Fresh cherry tomatoes shine in this recipe, bringing sweetness and juicy flavor. If they aren’t available, you can use grape tomatoes or even canned diced tomatoes for a different twist.
Garlic: Fresh minced garlic makes a delicious contribution to the flavor. If you’re in a pinch, garlic powder can work, but use less since it’s more concentrated. I love using fresh when I can!
Basil: Fresh basil leaves add fantastic aroma and taste. If you’re out, dried basil can substitute, though the flavor won’t be as bright. I find that tearing basil leaves instead of chopping enhances the aroma.
Fresh Mozzarella: Bocconcini adds creaminess, melting slightly when tossed with hot pasta. If you can’t find it, shredded mozzarella or even feta provides flavor, just expect a different texture.
How Do You Create a Flavorful Pasta Sauce?
Building a great pasta sauce starts with your aromatics, in this case, garlic. When sautéed, it releases its oils and creates a lovely base.
- Heat olive oil until it’s warm, then add minced garlic, cooking just until fragrant. Be careful not to burn it!
- Next, add halved cherry tomatoes. Let them cook and break down, adding a sprinkle of salt and red pepper flakes for layer complexity.
- Once the tomatoes soften, combine with the cooked pasta. Use a little reserved pasta water to make everything creamy and smooth.
This method ensures a cohesive dish where every bite bursts with flavor!
How to Make Cherry Tomato and Basil Pasta
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Pasta and Vegetables:
- 300g pasta (e.g., small shells or cavatappi)
- 250g cherry tomatoes, halved
- 2-3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
Cheeses and Seasonings:
- 200g fresh mozzarella balls (bocconcini)
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
- 1 tsp red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
- Salt and pepper to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful dish takes about 20 minutes to prepare and cook. It’s quick to put together, making it perfect for a weeknight meal or a special dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Once boiling, add the pasta and cook according to the package instructions until it’s al dente (firm but not hard). Don’t forget to save about 1 cup of the pasta water right before draining it!
2. Sauté the Garlic:
In a big skillet, heat up the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté it for about 1 minute, or until you can smell that delicious aroma. Be careful not to let it burn!
3. Add the Tomatoes:
Next, toss in the halved cherry tomatoes into the skillet. Season them with a pinch of salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes to taste. Let them cook for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally until they soften and ooze out their juices.
4. Combine Everything:
Now, it’s time to bring everything together! Add the cooked pasta to the skillet with the tomatoes. Stir in the fresh basil and pour in a little of that reserved pasta water to help create a lovely sauce. Toss everything well to combine all those tasty flavors.
5. Add the Cheese:
Remove the skillet from the heat, and gently fold in the fresh mozzarella balls. They’ll get nice and melty from the warmth of the pasta.
6. Serve and Enjoy!
Once everything is mixed, serve your warm Cherry Tomato and Basil Pasta on plates. Top each serving with grated Parmesan cheese and more fresh basil if you like. Enjoy this tasty dish with friends or family!
Can I Use Other Types of Pasta?
Absolutely! Any pasta shape will work well in this recipe. Whether you choose spaghetti, penne, or fusilli, just be sure to adjust the cooking time according to the package instructions for al dente perfection.
What Can I Substitute for Fresh Basil?
If you don’t have fresh basil on hand, you can use dried basil instead. Use about 1 teaspoon of dried basil for every tablespoon of fresh basil. Just remember to add it earlier in the cooking process so the flavors have time to infuse!
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Leftover Cherry Tomato and Basil Pasta can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of olive oil or reserved pasta water if needed to loosen the sauce.
