This Easy Cherry Tomato and Basil Pasta is a bright and fresh dish that’s perfect for any weeknight. With juicy cherry tomatoes and fragrant basil, it’s full of flavor!
Making this pasta is simple! Just boil your favorite noodles, toss in the tomatoes and basil, and you’re ready to eat. I love adding a sprinkle of cheese on top—yum!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pasta: Shell pasta is great for this dish because it catches the sauce well. You can swap it for any pasta you like, such as penne, spaghetti, or even gluten-free options. Just adjust the cooking time based on the type.
Cherry Tomatoes: The star of the show! If you can’t find cherry tomatoes, grape tomatoes work too. They have a similar taste. You can also use canned diced tomatoes in a pinch, just drain them well.
Basil: Fresh basil gives the dish its aromatic flavor. If you can’t find it, parsley or even spinach could be a good substitute, but it won’t have the same punch. Dried basil can work but use much less, about a teaspoon.
Fresh Mozzarella: I love using mozzarella balls (bocconcini) for creaminess. If you can’t find them, a shredded mozzarella or even ricotta can work. For those avoiding dairy, try using vegan cheese.
How Can I Make Sure My Garlic Doesn’t Burn?
Garlic adds wonderful flavor, but it can burn quickly. Here’s how to avoid that:
- Use medium heat when sautéing garlic. Too high will burn it before the pasta is done cooking.
- Only cook it for about 30 seconds until fragrant, then add the tomatoes.
- If your garlic does burn, it’s best to start over. Burnt garlic tastes bitter and can ruin your dish.
How Can I Make the Sauce Creamier?
For an extra creamy sauce, consider these tips:
- Add a splash of heavy cream or half-and-half after adding the pasta to the skillet. This makes the dish richer.
- You can also mash some of the mozzarella into the pasta to make the sauce creamier.
- Another option is to add a bit of the reserved pasta water gradually until you reach your desired consistency.
Enjoy your cooking adventure with this Easy Cherry Tomato and Basil Pasta!
Easy Cherry Tomato and Basil Pasta
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Pasta:
- 8 oz (225 g) shell pasta or your preferred pasta
For the Sauce:
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/2 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
- 8 oz fresh mozzarella balls (bocconcini)
- 3 tbsp olive oil, plus extra for drizzling
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 tsp red chili flakes (adjust to taste)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Optional: finely chopped parsley for garnish
For the Topping:
- 1/4 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes of prep time and 15 minutes of cooking time. Altogether, you’ll have a delicious pasta ready in about 25 minutes!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Once boiling, add your shell pasta (or any pasta you’ve chosen) and cook it according to the package instructions until it’s al dente. When done, drain the pasta but make sure to reserve about 1/2 cup of that pasta water for later.
2. Sauté the Garlic:
While the pasta is cooking, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic to the skillet and sauté it for about 30 seconds until it becomes fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic!
3. Add the Cherry Tomatoes:
Next, toss in the halved cherry tomatoes. Cook them for about 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally until they start to soften and release their delicious juices. You’ll be able to smell all those wonderful flavors!
4. Mix in the Fresh Herbs and Spice:
Now it’s time to stir in the chopped basil and red chili flakes. Continue to cook for another 1-2 minutes. This allows all the flavors to come together beautifully.
5. Combine Pasta and Sauce:
Add the drained pasta to your skillet with the cherry tomatoes and basil. Toss everything gently to mix. If the pasta seems a bit dry, pour in a splash of the reserved pasta water to loosen it up and create a lovely sauce.
6. Add the Mozzarella:
Remove your skillet from the heat and gently fold in the fresh mozzarella balls. This will make your pasta creamy and delicious!
7. Season and Drizzle:
Give the pasta a taste and season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to your liking. Drizzle the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil over the top for an extra touch of flavor.
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve your pasta warm, generously topped with freshly grated Parmesan cheese. If you like, you can add some extra basil or a sprinkle of parsley for garnish, plus a few more chili flakes if you want some heat.
9. Dig In!
Enjoy your Easy Cherry Tomato and Basil Pasta right away while it’s warm and fresh! It’s a dish full of bright flavors and a sure crowd-pleaser!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Different Types of Pasta?
Absolutely! While shell pasta works great for this recipe, feel free to use any pasta you prefer, such as spaghetti, penne, or even gluten-free options. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly to achieve the perfect al dente texture.
What Should I Do If I Don’t Have Fresh Basil?
If fresh basil isn’t available, you can substitute it with parsley or spinach for a different flavor. If you have dried basil on hand, use about 1 teaspoon instead, but use this sparingly as it’s more concentrated in flavor.
How Do I Store Leftover Pasta?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to eat, reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of water or olive oil to help loosen the sauce, if needed.
Can I Make This Dish Vegan?
Yes! To make this dish vegan, simply omit the cheese or substitute it with vegan cheese. You can also enhance flavor by adding nutritional yeast for a cheesy taste.
Feel free to ask any additional questions you might have while making this delightful pasta dish!
