This Easy Cherry Tomato Basil Pasta is a quick and tasty dish! With juicy cherry tomatoes, fragrant basil, and a sprinkle of Parmesan, it’s fresh and yummy.
I love how simple it is to whip this up on a busy night. Just toss everything in a pan, and dinner is ready in a flash! You won’t believe how good it tastes! 🍝✨
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pasta: Any pasta works well here, but I love using spaghetti for its classic feel. If you’re gluten-free, you can easily substitute with gluten-free pasta or even zoodles (zucchini noodles) for a lighter option.
Cherry Tomatoes: These sweet little gems add great flavor. If cherry tomatoes aren’t in season, feel free to use regular tomatoes, chopped into bite-sized pieces. Canned diced tomatoes can work in a pinch too!
Garlic: Fresh garlic adds depth of flavor. Garlic powder can be used in a pinch, but fresh is always best for that vibrant garlic taste.
Basil: Fresh basil makes this dish pop with freshness. If you’re out, you could substitute with dried basil, but reduce the amount since dried herbs are more potent. You could also use spinach for a different taste!
Parmesan Cheese: Grated Parmesan gives a salty kick. Pecorino Romano is a great substitute if you want something sharper, or use nutritional yeast for a dairy-free option.
How Do I Get the Most Flavor from My Garlic?
Getting the perfect garlic flavor involves cooking it just right. If garlic burns, it turns bitter. Follow these steps:
- Always mince or slice your garlic before cooking. This helps release its oils and flavor.
- Heat your olive oil on medium-low before adding the garlic. Let it gently sizzle for about 30 seconds.
- Add the garlic to the oil and stir continuously. Cook until it’s fragrant and just lightly golden.
- Be sure to add your tomatoes immediately after to cool the garlic and prevent burning.
Easy Cherry Tomato Basil Pasta with Garlic and Parmesan
Ingredients:
- 12 oz (340 g) pasta (such as spaghetti, linguine, or penne)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 3 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 grated Parmesan cheese, plus extra for serving
- 1 tbsp butter (optional, for extra richness)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious pasta dish takes about 10 minutes to prep and 15 minutes to cook. So, all together, you’re looking at around 25 minutes from start to finish. Quick and satisfying!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Once it’s boiling, add the pasta and cook it according to the package instructions until it’s al dente (cooked but still firm). This usually takes about 8 to 10 minutes. Don’t forget to reserve about 1/2 cup of the pasta water before you drain the pasta! This starchy water will help the sauce bind later.
2. Sauté the Garlic and Tomatoes:
While the pasta is cooking, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds, or until it’s fragrant—be careful not to let it burn! Next, add the halved cherry tomatoes to the skillet. Season them with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using). Cook everything together for about 5 to 7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the tomatoes start to soften and burst.
3. Combine Everything and Serve:
When the pasta is done, drain it and add it directly to the skillet with the tomatoes. Toss everything together, adding the reserved pasta water a little at a time until the sauce reaches your desired consistency. Stir in the chopped basil and the grated Parmesan cheese. If you’re using butter, add that for an extra touch of richness. Taste and adjust the seasoning if needed. Serve your pasta hot, topped with additional Parmesan cheese and more fresh basil if desired. Enjoy!
Can I Use Different Types of Pasta?
Absolutely! While spaghetti, linguine, or penne are great choices, you can use any pasta you have on hand. Just adjust the cooking time according to the package instructions to ensure it’s cooked to al dente.
What If I’m Out of Fresh Basil?
No worries! If you don’t have fresh basil, you can use dried basil—just use about one-third of the amount since dried herbs are more concentrated. Alternatively, spinach can be a great substitute for a different twist!
Can I Make This Dish Vegan?
Yes! To make this pasta vegan, simply omit the Parmesan cheese or use a dairy-free alternative. You may also replace the butter with a plant-based option or simply leave it out.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm it on the stovetop with a splash of water or olive oil, stirring until heated through and the pasta regains its moisture.
