Cherry Tomato and Basil Pasta
Cherry Tomato and Basil Pasta is a refreshing and vibrant dish that captures the essence of summer in every bite. This quick and easy recipe combines al dente pasta with juicy cherry tomatoes, aromatic basil, and savory garlic, creating a delightful meal perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting friends or enjoying a solo dinner at home, this flavorful dish promises to impress with its fresh ingredients and inviting aromas.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
- Category: Main
- Method: Boiling/Sautéing
- Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients
Scale
- 8 oz spaghetti
- 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup fresh basil leaves, torn
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
- In a large skillet over medium heat, warm the olive oil. Add minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.
- Stir in the halved cherry tomatoes and cook for approximately 5 minutes until softened.
- Add the drained spaghetti to the skillet with the tomato mixture and toss everything together. If needed, add some reserved pasta water to achieve desired consistency.
- Remove from heat and fold in torn basil leaves. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Plate the pasta and generously sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese before serving.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (approx. 200g)
- Calories: 420
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 300mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 56g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 12g
- Cholesterol: 10mg
Keywords: For added protein, mix in grilled chicken or shrimp. Substitute cherry tomatoes with sun-dried tomatoes or add red pepper flakes for extra heat. Always use fresh basil for the best flavor.