Pasta with Cherry Tomatoes

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If you’re looking for a simple, flavorful, and satisfying dish, this cherry tomato basil pasta recipe is exactly what you need. Bursting with the fresh sweetness of cherry tomatoes, the comforting bite of al dente spaghetti, and the fragrant aroma of fresh basil, this dish is perfect for any day of the week. Whether you’re short on time or just craving something light yet filling, this is one of those mini tomato recipes that will become a staple in your kitchen.

Why You Will Love This Pasta with Cherry Tomatoes Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This cherry tomato pasta can be whipped up in under 30 minutes, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
• Minimal Ingredients: With just a handful of pantry staples and fresh produce, this dish delivers maximum flavor with minimal effort.
• Healthy and Vegan: This recipe is naturally vegan and can be enjoyed guilt-free. It’s a fantastic way to include fresh produce like cherry tomatoes and basil in your diet.
• Customizable: Love spice? Add more chili flakes. Prefer grape tomatoes? Swap them in. This recipe works beautifully with a variety of small tomatoes.
• Versatile: Pair this dish with a fresh salad, crusty bread, or even a plant-based protein for a complete meal.

Ingredient Notes

• Spaghetti: Choose your favorite brand of spaghetti or swap it for gluten-free pasta if needed.
• Cherry Tomatoes: The star of the show! These little gems are sweet, juicy, and perfect for this dish. You can also use grape tomatoes for a slightly different flavor profile.
• Garlic: Smashed garlic cloves release their flavor without overwhelming the dish. Feel free to adjust the amount to your liking.
• Olive Oil: Use high-quality extra virgin olive oil for the best flavor.
• Basil: Fresh basil is essential for that classic cherry tomato basil pasta taste.
• Chili Flakes (Optional): For a touch of heat, chili flakes add depth to the dish without overpowering the other flavors.
• Salt and Pepper: Simple seasonings that enhance the natural flavors of the ingredients.

Instructions How to Make This Cherry Tomato Basil Pasta

• Cook the Spaghetti: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the spaghetti and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Reserve ½ cup of pasta water, then drain.

• Prepare the Sauce: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the smashed garlic cloves and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant but not browned. Add the cherry tomatoes and season with salt, pepper, and chili flakes (if using). Cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the tomatoes soften and start to burst. Use the back of a spoon to gently press some of the tomatoes to release their juices.

• Combine Pasta and Sauce: Lower the heat and add the drained spaghetti to the skillet. Toss the pasta to coat it in the sauce. Add a splash of the reserved pasta water if the sauce is too thick.

• Add Fresh Basil: Tear the fresh basil leaves and stir them into the pasta just before serving.

• Serve: Divide into bowls, drizzle with a little extra olive oil, and garnish with more chili flakes if desired.

Pasta with Cherry Tomatoes Recipe Tips

• Don’t Overcook the Garlic: Keep an eye on the garlic as it sautés. Burnt garlic can give the dish a bitter taste.
• Burst the Tomatoes Gently: Use the back of a spoon to press only a few tomatoes, leaving others intact for a mix of textures.
• Adjust the Spice Level: If you’re not a fan of spice, skip the chili flakes entirely. If you love heat, feel free to add more.
• Use Fresh Basil: Dried basil won’t provide the same aromatic freshness as the real thing.
• Add Nutritional Yeast: For a cheesy, vegan twist, sprinkle some nutritional yeast on top before serving.

Serving Suggestions and Pairings

• As a Main Dish: Serve this cherry tomato pasta with a side of garlic bread or a fresh green salad for a complete meal.
• With Vegan Proteins: Pair this dish with baked tofu, grilled tempeh, or chickpeas for added protein.
• Wine Pairing: A crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio complements the freshness of the cherry tomato basil pasta.
• Family Dinner: This dish is light yet satisfying, making it a perfect option for family meals.

Storing Instructions for Pasta with Cherry Tomatoes

• Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave. Add a splash of water or olive oil to refresh the sauce.
• Freezing: While this dish is best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze the tomato sauce separately for up to 2 months. Thaw and toss with freshly cooked pasta when ready to eat.

Frequently Asked Questions about Pasta with Cherry Tomatoes

1. Can I use grape tomatoes instead of cherry tomatoes? Yes! Grape tomatoes work just as well in this recipe and provide a slightly sweeter flavor.

2. What’s the best type of pasta for this recipe? Spaghetti is a classic choice, but you can use any long pasta like linguine or fettuccine. Short pasta like penne or fusilli also works well.

3. Is this recipe spicy? Not inherently. The chili flakes add optional heat, which you can adjust to your preference.

4. Can I make this dish gluten-free? Absolutely. Substitute regular spaghetti with your favorite gluten-free pasta.

5. What can I use instead of fresh basil? If fresh basil isn’t available, try parsley or a small amount of dried basil. However, the fresh basil really elevates the dish.

Equipment Needed

• Large Pot: For cooking the spaghetti.
• Skillet or Frying Pan: To prepare the sauce.
• Tongs or Pasta Spoon: For tossing the pasta and sauce together.
• Sharp Knife: To smash the garlic and tear the basil.
• Serving Bowls: To plate your beautiful cherry tomato and pasta recipes creation.

This cherry tomato pasta recipe is a celebration of simple, fresh ingredients. Whether you’re looking for recipes for using cherry tomatoes or just a quick dinner idea, this dish delivers every time. With its vibrant colors, delightful textures, and harmonious flavors, it’s no wonder that cherry tomato recipes with pasta are loved by so many.

So, next time you find yourself with a pint of cherry tomatoes and some spaghetti, you know exactly what to make. It’s one of those cherry tomato recipes that’s sure to impress without the stress.

Do you love cooking with cherry tomatoes? What’s your favorite way to use them? Share your twists on this cherry tomato basil pasta recipe or your favorite cherry tomato and pasta recipes in the comments below. Let’s keep the conversation delicious!

More Pasta Recipes:

• Mushroom and Truffle Pasta
• Coconut Milk Pasta
• Vegan Lentil Bolognese
• Pasta alla Norma
• Vegan Pumpkin Pasta