This Cherry Tomato and Basil Pasta is a fresh and colorful dish. With juicy cherry tomatoes and fragrant basil, it’s bursting with flavor. Perfect for a quick weekday meal!
Cooking this pasta always makes me smile, especially when I see the vibrant colors in the pan. Just toss everything together, and it’s like a summer garden on your plate! 🌿🍝
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pasta: I recommend using shells or ditalini for a bite-sized texture that holds the sauce well. If you want a different shape, try penne or fusilli. Whole wheat or gluten-free pasta are good options too if you’re looking for a healthier choice.
Cherry Tomatoes: These are perfect for this dish because they are sweet and juicy. If cherry tomatoes aren’t in season, consider using grape tomatoes or even diced regular tomatoes. Just keep in mind that you may need to adjust cooking time.
Fresh Basil: Fresh basil adds an aromatic flavor that’s essential for this pasta. If you can’t find it, use pesto or dried basil as substitutes. Dried basil will be less potent, so use a smaller amount.
Olive Oil: Extra virgin olive oil enhances the taste of this dish. If you need a substitute, you can use avocado oil or vegetable oil. However, the flavor might not be as rich as with good olive oil.
Fresh Mozzarella: I suggest using mozzarella balls (bocconcini) to add a creamy texture. If you prefer a stronger cheese flavor, you can switch to feta or goat cheese, but keep in mind they will change the taste of your dish.
How Do You Cook Pasta Perfectly?
Cooking pasta might seem simple, but there are a few tricks to get it just right. Follow these steps to make sure your pasta is perfectly cooked:
- Use a large pot of boiling salted water. This helps the pasta cook evenly and flavorfully.
- Cook until al dente, which means it should be firm to the bite. Check the package for timing, but start checking a minute or two before the suggested time.
- Reserve some of the pasta water before draining. This can help loosen your sauce if it gets too thick.
With these tips, you’ll have pasta that’s great for mixing with your cherry tomatoes and sauce!
How to Make Cherry Tomato and Basil Pasta
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Pasta and Veggies:
- 8 oz pasta (such as shells or ditalini)
- 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
For the Sauce:
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Topping:
- 1 cup fresh mozzarella balls (bocconcini)
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (for serving)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Cherry Tomato and Basil Pasta recipe takes about 15 minutes of prep time and 10-15 minutes of cooking, so you can enjoy a beautiful homemade meal in about 30 minutes!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cooking the Pasta:
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package instructions until it’s al dente, which usually takes around 8-10 minutes. Once done, drain the pasta, but be sure to save a little bit of the pasta water to use later!
2. Making the Sauce:
In a large skillet, pour in the olive oil and heat it over medium heat. Once hot, add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes. Sauté for about 1 minute, just until it smells amazing—be careful not to burn the garlic!
3. Adding the Tomatoes:
Next, toss in the halved cherry tomatoes into the skillet. Season them with salt and pepper. Cook the tomatoes for about 5-7 minutes, stirring gently from time to time, until they soften up and release their juices to create a lovely sauce.
4. Combining Everything:
Once the tomatoes are saucy, add the cooked pasta to the skillet. Stir in some of the reserved pasta water a little at a time until you reach your desired consistency. Toss everything together until the pasta is well coated with the tomato sauce.
5. Finishing Touches:
Remove the skillet from the heat and gently fold in the chopped fresh basil and the mozzarella balls. They will start to melt slightly from the heat of the pasta, adding a creamy texture to your dish!
6. Serving Up:
Serve the pasta fresh in bowls. Top each serving with a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese and maybe a little extra basil for a vibrant touch. Enjoy your Cherry Tomato and Basil Pasta for a delightful meal!
Can I Use Different Types of Pasta?
Absolutely! While the recipe suggests shells or ditalini, you can use any pasta shape you prefer, such as spaghetti or penne. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time according to the package instructions for your chosen pasta.
What Should I Do If I Don’t Have Fresh Basil?
If fresh basil isn’t available, you can substitute it with dried basil. Use about 1 teaspoon of dried basil for this recipe. Just remember that dried herbs are more concentrated than fresh, so you won’t need as much!
Can I Prepare This Pasta in Advance?
Yes, you can prepare the pasta and sauce in advance! Cook the pasta and toss it with the sauce, then store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. When you’re ready to eat, simply reheat gently, adding a splash of olive oil or a bit of reserved pasta water to loosen it up.
How Should I Store Leftover Pasta?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the pasta in a microwave-safe dish, cover it loosely, and warm it in the microwave, stirring occasionally. Alternatively, you can reheat it in a skillet on the stove over low heat.
