This Easy Cherry Tomato and Basil Pasta is a colorful and tasty dish. With fresh cherry tomatoes and fragrant basil, it’s like summer on a plate!
You just cook the pasta, toss it with the tomatoes, and add some basil. It’s quick and perfect for busy nights or when you need a tasty meal in a hurry!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pasta: I chose pasta shells for their fun shape and ability to hold onto sauce. If you prefer, any pasta like spaghetti, penne, or fusilli works well, too. Just keep an eye on cooking times!
Cherry Tomatoes: Fresh cherry tomatoes add sweetness. You can also use grape tomatoes or even diced regular tomatoes if needed. Roasted tomatoes can give a deeper flavor if you want something different.
Mini Mozzarella Balls: If you can’t find bocconcini, you can substitute with cubed mozzarella or even feta cheese for a tangy twist. Both work well to add creaminess!
Basil: Fresh basil is a must for a bright finish. If you’re out of it, consider using other fresh herbs like parsley or oregano, but the flavor will shift a bit.
How Do You Cook Cherry Tomatoes to Bring Out Their Best Flavor?
Cooking cherry tomatoes transforms their flavor, making them sweeter and juicier. Here’s how to do it right:
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.
- Add minced garlic first, then quickly follow with halved cherry tomatoes.
- Cook for about 5-7 minutes, gently pressing some to release juices while stirring. This helps create a lovely sauce.
Be patient during this step; it’s worth it! Mixing the tomatoes with garlic brings an amazing warmth and depth to your pasta.
Easy Cherry Tomato and Basil Pasta
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Pasta:
- 8 oz (225g) pasta shells or your preferred pasta shape
For the Sauce:
- 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved (you can use orange or red tomatoes)
- 8 oz (225g) fresh mini mozzarella balls (bocconcini)
- 3 tbsp extra virgin olive oil, divided
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
For the Finish:
- 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped or torn
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Optional: fresh parsley for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This quick pasta dish takes about 20-25 minutes total. You’ll spend about 10 minutes cooking the pasta, and the sauce comes together in roughly 10-15 minutes. It’s a fast and delicious meal perfect for any weeknight!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to boil. Once boiling, add the pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup of the pasta water and then drain the pasta. Set it aside while you make the sauce.
2. Create the Tomato Sauce:
In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Once hot, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until it’s fragrant, making sure not to burn it. Next, add the halved cherry tomatoes. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, gently breaking some of the tomatoes as they cook to release their sweet juices. Season them with salt, pepper, and half of the red pepper flakes for a bit of heat.
3. Combine the Pasta and Sauce:
Now, add the cooked pasta to the skillet with the sautéed tomatoes. Toss everything together, and use the reserved pasta water a little at a time to create a light sauce that coats your pasta nicely.
4. Finish with Fresh Ingredients:
Remove the skillet from heat. Stir in the chopped basil and the remaining tablespoon of olive oil for flavor. This is where all those fresh aromas really come alive!
5. Serve it Up:
Plate the pasta up and scatter the mini mozzarella balls on top, allowing them to slightly melt into the warm pasta. Sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese and the remaining red pepper flakes. If you like, drizzle a little extra olive oil for that finishing touch!
6. Optional Garnish:
For an extra touch of freshness, feel free to garnish with chopped parsley before serving. Enjoy your delicious Easy Cherry Tomato and Basil Pasta right away!
This dish captures the joy of seasonal ingredients with its sweet tomatoes, creamy mozzarella, and fragrant basil. It’s simple yet full of flavor — perfect for sharing with family or enjoying solo! Bon appétit!
FAQs About Easy Cherry Tomato and Basil Pasta
Can I Use Other Types of Pasta?
Absolutely! While pasta shells are fun and great for holding sauce, any pasta shape like penne, spaghetti, or farfalle works perfectly. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time according to the package instructions for the pasta you choose!
What If I Can’t Find Fresh Basil?
No worries! If fresh basil isn’t available, you can use dried basil as a substitute, though the flavor will be a bit different. Use about 1 teaspoon of dried basil in place of 1/4 cup of fresh, but consider adding it earlier in the cooking process to help rehydrate its flavor.
Can I Make This Pasta Ahead of Time?
This dish is best enjoyed fresh, but you can prepare the sauce ahead and store it in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Just reheat it on the stove before tossing it with fresh pasta. You can also mix in the cheese and basil just before serving for the best flavor.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm it gently in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of olive oil or a little broth if the pasta seems dry.
