This quick cherry tomato pasta is perfect for busy nights! It’s made with juicy cherry tomatoes, garlic, and olive oil, all tossed with your favorite pasta. So simple and fresh!
I love how I can whip this up in just 20 minutes. It feels fancy, but really, who doesn’t love a good pasta dish when time is tight? 🍝
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pasta: I like using spaghetti for this recipe, as it holds the sauce nicely. However, you can swap it with any pasta you have on hand, like penne or fusilli. Gluten-free pasta works too, just follow the package cooking times.
Olive Oil: Extra virgin olive oil adds flavor. If you’re out, use regular olive oil or even avocado oil for cooking. Coconut oil can also work but will alter the taste slightly.
Cherry Tomatoes: They bring sweetness and juiciness. Grape tomatoes are a great substitute if you can’t find cherry tomatoes. For a twist, roasted tomatoes can add deeper flavor.
Garlic: Fresh garlic shines in this dish, but garlic powder works in a pinch. Start with 1/2 tsp if you go that route. Fresh herbs are even better though!
Basil: Fresh basil makes a big difference in flavor. If you don’t have any, dried basil can substitute (use about 1 tsp), but the taste will differ. Oregano or parsley can also work!
How Do I Make Sure My Garlic Doesn’t Burn?
A common issue is burning garlic, which turns bitter. To avoid this, heat the skillet over medium heat and keep a close eye while sautéing. Here’s how to get it right:
- Slice garlic thinly to ensure even cooking.
- Cook for just 1-2 minutes, stirring gently until fragrant.
- If it starts to brown too quickly, lower the heat. Remember, garlic cooks fast!
With these tips, you’ll have perfectly fragrant garlic that complements your dish without the bitterness.
Easy 20-Minute Cherry Tomato Pasta
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 8 oz (225 g) spaghetti or your favorite pasta
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, thinly sliced
- 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (plus extra for serving)
- 1 tbsp balsamic vinegar (optional, for extra flavor)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This easy cherry tomato pasta takes about 20 minutes from start to finish. You’ll need around 10 minutes to boil the pasta and another 10 minutes to prepare the sauce, making it a perfect weeknight meal that’s quick and delicious!
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. This usually takes about 8-10 minutes. Before draining, make sure to reserve 1/2 cup of the pasta water; it will help to thicken your sauce later!
2. Sauté the Garlic:
While the pasta cooks, grab a large skillet and heat the olive oil over medium heat. Once it’s warm, add the sliced garlic, sautéing it for about 1-2 minutes. Keep an eye on it to prevent burning—just until it’s fragrant and golden, which adds a lovely flavor to your dish.
3. Add the Cherry Tomatoes:
Now it’s time to add the halved cherry tomatoes to the skillet. If you’re a fan of a little kick, sprinkle in the red pepper flakes too. Stir everything together and let it cook, stirring occasionally, for about 5-7 minutes. You want the tomatoes to soften and some of the juices to create a sauce.
4. Mix and Season:
Once the tomatoes are softened, season the mixture with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. If you’re using balsamic vinegar, drizzle it in now for an extra layer of flavor!
5. Combine Pasta and Sauce:
Add the drained pasta to the skillet along with the reserved pasta water. Toss everything together gently to coat the pasta with that lovely tomato sauce. If it seems a bit dry, feel free to add a little more of the pasta water for your desired sauce consistency!
6. Add Fresh Herbs and Cheese:
Off the heat, stir in the chopped fresh basil and grated Parmesan cheese. This will add a burst of freshness and that cheesy goodness we all love!
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Your cherry tomato pasta is ready! Serve it immediately, topped with more Parmesan cheese if you like. Enjoy your quick, fresh meal!
Bon appétit! 🍝
Can I Use Other Types of Pasta for This Recipe?
Absolutely! While spaghetti is a classic choice, feel free to substitute it with any pasta you prefer, such as penne, fettuccine, or even gluten-free pasta. Just adjust the cooking time according to the package instructions!
What Can I Substitute for Parmesan Cheese?
If you don’t have Parmesan cheese on hand, you can use Pecorino Romano for a sharper flavor or nutritional yeast for a dairy-free option. Both will add a nice cheesy element to your dish.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of water or olive oil to prevent drying out.
Can I Add Protein to This Pasta?
Definitely! Grilled chicken, shrimp, or even canned chickpeas would be excellent additions. You can sauté them with the garlic before adding the tomatoes. Just ensure the protein is cooked through before mixing everything together!