Cherry Tomato Pasta
Quick and delicious Cherry Tomato Pasta with burst tomatoes, fresh basil, and Parmesan cheese. Ready in 20 minutes for busy weeknights.
Equipment
- 1 Large Pot for boiling pasta
- 1 Colander for draining
- 1 Large Skillet or sauté pan
- 1 Wooden spoon or spatula
- 1 Chef's knife and cutting board
- 1 Grater for cheese
Ingredients
- 1 pound pasta spaghetti, linguine, or your favorite shape
- 2 pints cherry tomatoes mixed colors if available
- 6 cloves garlic whole, peeled
- 1/3 cup extra virgin olive oil
- 1 cup fresh basil leaves torn
- 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese freshly grated
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes optional
- Salt to taste
- Black pepper freshly cracked, to taste
Instructions
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add pasta and cook according to package directions until al dente. Reserve one cup of pasta water before draining.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add whole garlic cloves and cook for one minute until fragrant but not browned.
- Add cherry tomatoes to the skillet. Toss them in the oil and garlic. Let them cook undisturbed for three minutes.
- Shake the pan to turn the tomatoes. Continue cooking for five to seven minutes. Press some tomatoes gently with your spoon to help them burst.
- Season the tomatoes with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes. Stir everything together and let the juices bubble.
- Add drained pasta directly to the skillet with tomatoes. Toss everything together so the pasta gets coated in the tomato juices.
- Pour in reserved pasta water a little at a time. Toss constantly until the sauce coats the pasta and looks glossy. You might not need all the water.
- Remove from heat and tear fresh basil leaves over the top. Add grated Parmesan cheese and toss one final time.
- Taste and adjust seasoning with more salt or pepper if needed. Serve immediately while hot.
Notes
Store leftovers in an airtight container for 3-4 days. Reheat gently with a splash of water or broth. Make the sauce ahead and cook pasta fresh for best texture. Add protein like chicken, shrimp, or white beans to make it heartier.