This Easy Cherry Tomato and Basil Pasta is a bright and refreshing dish. Juicy cherry tomatoes pop with flavor, and fresh basil adds a lovely aroma that makes your kitchen smell amazing!
I love how simple this recipe is—just cook the pasta, toss in the tomatoes and basil, and it’s ready! Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner that feels special. 🍝
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pasta: I suggest using pasta shells for their ability to hold onto sauce. However, any pasta shape works! Penne or spaghetti are good alternatives if that’s what you have on hand.
Cherry Tomatoes: Fresh cherry tomatoes are key for flavor, but if they’re not available, you can use grape tomatoes or even canned diced tomatoes—just be mindful of the cooking time!
Basil: Fresh basil adds a lovely aroma and taste. If you don’t have fresh, you can use 1 teaspoon of dried basil instead. Just remember that dried herbs are stronger, so adjust to your taste.
Cheese: I recommend using fresh mozzarella for its creaminess. If you can’t find it, feel free to substitute with shredded mozzarella or even feta for a different flavor profile.
How Do I Perfectly Sauté Garlic Without Burning It?
Getting garlic right is vital for this dish, as burnt garlic tastes bitter and can ruin the flavor. Here’s how to do it:
- Heat your skillet on medium heat before adding oil.
- Once the oil is hot, add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes.
- Sauté for about 30 seconds to 1 minute. Stir frequently and watch closely—once you can smell the garlic, it’s ready.
- If it turns brown too quickly, lower the heat to prevent burning.
With these tips, you’ll achieve perfectly aromatic garlic, enhancing your pasta’s flavor without the bitterness. Enjoy your cooking!
Easy Cherry Tomato and Basil Pasta Recipe
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 8 oz pasta shells or your favorite pasta shape
- 1 pint cherry tomatoes, halved if large
- 2 tbsp olive oil, plus extra for drizzling
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
- 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
- 4 oz fresh mozzarella balls (bocconcini)
- 1/4 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious pasta dish takes about 20-25 minutes total—10 minutes for prep and around 10-15 minutes to cook. It’s a quick and easy way to enjoy a fresh and flavorful meal without spending a lot of time in the kitchen.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil over high heat. Once boiling, add your pasta and cook according to the package instructions until it’s al dente (meaning it’s cooked but still has a little firmness). Before draining, be sure to reserve about 1/2 cup of the pasta cooking water. Then, drain the pasta and set it aside.
2. Sauté Garlic and Spices:
While your pasta cooks, grab a large skillet and heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes to the oil, stirring for about a minute until fragrant. Be careful not to let the garlic brown as it can turn bitter.
3. Cook the Cherry Tomatoes:
Next, add the halved cherry tomatoes to the skillet. Let them cook for about 5-7 minutes until they begin to soften and burst, releasing their sweet juices. This will create a lovely sauce for your pasta.
4. Combine Pasta and Sauce:
Now it’s time to bring it all together! Add the drained pasta to the skillet with the tomatoes. Toss everything together, adding the reserved pasta water a little at a time if it seems dry. This starch-rich water really helps to bind everything together.
5. Add Fresh Ingredients:
Stir in the chopped fresh basil and season the dish with salt and freshly ground black pepper to your taste. This adds a fragrant and vibrant layer to the dish!
6. Finish the Dish:
Plate your pasta and scatter the fresh mozzarella balls on top. Drizzle a little more olive oil over everything for an extra touch of richness. Finally, sprinkle the freshly grated Parmesan cheese and a pinch of red pepper flakes for that perfect finishing touch.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Enjoy your Easy Cherry Tomato and Basil Pasta warm and fresh. This dish is not only quick to make but bursting with flavor, making it a delightful meal any night of the week!
FAQ About Easy Cherry Tomato and Basil Pasta
Can I Use Different Types of Pasta?
Absolutely! While pasta shells work wonderfully, feel free to swap in any pasta shape you prefer, such as penne, fusilli, or spaghetti. Just adjust the cooking time as needed based on the type you’ve chosen.
How Can I Make This Recipe Vegetarian or Vegan?
This recipe is already vegetarian, but to make it vegan, simply omit the fresh mozzarella and Parmesan cheese. You can replace them with your favorite vegan cheese or nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor!
What If I Don’t Have Fresh Basil?
If fresh basil isn’t available, you can substitute 1 teaspoon of dried basil instead. Dried herbs are more concentrated, so start with less and adjust according to your taste.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, you can warm it up gently in a skillet on the stove, adding a splash of olive oil or water to loosen the pasta if needed.
