This Cherry Tomato and Basil Pasta is a bright and tasty dish that’s super easy to whip up. With fresh cherry tomatoes and fragrant basil, it feels like summer on your plate!
The best part? It’s ready in 20 minutes! I love tossing it together after a long day—quick, delicious, and a perfect way to get a burst of flavor without a million dishes to wash!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pasta: I recommend using cavatappi for its shape, but you can easily swap in spaghetti, penne, or fusilli. Just make sure whatever pasta you choose cooks to al dente for the best texture.
Cherry Tomatoes: Look for ripe, sweet cherry tomatoes. If you can’t find them, grape tomatoes are an excellent alternative. You can also use diced canned tomatoes in a pinch, but the fresh taste won’t be quite the same.
Fresh Basil: Fresh basil is key for flavor. If you don’t have fresh, you could use 1 teaspoon of dried basil, but be cautious as it can be stronger. I love to tear the leaves instead of chopping for a more aromatic result!
Fresh Mozzarella: I love using bocconcini for their chewy texture. If unavailable, you can substitute with diced mozzarella or even use ricotta for a creamier option.
How Do I Ensure My Cherry Tomatoes Burst Perfectly?
Cooking the cherry tomatoes just right is crucial for this dish. You want them to soften and burst to release their juices, creating a light sauce. Here’s how to do it:
- Heat olive oil in the pot over medium heat before adding garlic and red pepper flakes. Watch for the garlic to become fragrant!
- Add the halved tomatoes and let them cook without stirring too frequently. This will help them burst beautifully.
- After about 5-7 minutes, keep an eye out for tomatoes that are soft and starting to break apart—this means they’re perfect!
How to Make Cherry Tomato and Basil Pasta
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For The Pasta:
- 300g pasta (e.g., cavatappi or any preferred shape)
For The Sauce:
- 400g cherry tomatoes, halved
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
- 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
- 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
- Salt and pepper to taste
For Topping:
- 200g fresh mozzarella balls (bocconcini)
- Grated Parmesan cheese for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Cherry Tomato and Basil Pasta takes about 25 minutes to prepare. You’ll spend about 10 minutes cooking the pasta and another 15 minutes making the sauce and combining everything. It’s quick and perfect for a tasty meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cooking the Pasta:
Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Once boiling, add the pasta and cook according to the package instructions until it’s al dente (tender but slightly firm). Before you drain it, make sure to reserve about 1 cup of the pasta water. After that, drain the pasta and set it aside.
2. Making the Sauce:
In the same pot you used for the pasta, add the extra virgin olive oil and heat it over medium heat. Toss in the minced garlic and red pepper flakes. Sauté them for about 1 minute, or until you start to smell the lovely aroma of garlic.
3. Adding the Tomatoes:
Next, add the halved cherry tomatoes to the pot. Cook them for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally. You’ll know they’re ready when they start to soften and burst open. Yum!
4. Combining Pasta and Basil:
Now, it’s time to bring everything together! Stir in the cooked pasta and chopped basil. If the pasta looks a bit dry, add some of the reserved pasta water, a little at a time, until it reaches the consistency you like.
5. Final Seasoning and Cheese:
Season your pasta with salt and pepper to taste. Gently fold in the fresh mozzarella balls, allowing them to warm slightly in the mixture.
6. Serving:
Serve your delicious pasta warm, topped with a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese and an extra drizzle of olive oil if you’d like. Enjoy your flavorful Cherry Tomato and Basil Pasta!
Can I Use Different Types of Pasta?
Absolutely! You can use any pasta shape you prefer, such as spaghetti, penne, or farfalle. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time according to the package instructions to achieve the perfect al dente texture.
What If I Don’t Have Fresh Basil?
If fresh basil isn’t available, you can substitute it with dried basil. Use about 1 tablespoon of dried basil instead of the fresh, but add it earlier in the cooking process with the garlic so it can rehydrate and release its flavor.
How to Store Leftovers
Store any leftover pasta in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, add a splash of water or olive oil to prevent it from drying out and heat gently on the stove or in the microwave.
Can I Add Protein to This Dish?
Definitely! Grilled chicken, shrimp, or even sautéed mushrooms make great additions. Simply cook your desired protein separately and toss it in with the pasta before serving for a heartier meal.
