This Cherry Tomato and Basil Pasta is a quick and tasty dish that’s perfect for busy nights. With fresh tomatoes and fragrant basil, it’s like a summer garden on your plate!
Trust me, the bright red tomatoes and green basil really brighten up this meal. Plus, it’s so easy to make, you’ll have time for a little dance in the kitchen while it cooks! 💃
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cherry Tomatoes: These small tomatoes are sweet and juicy. If they’re out of season, you can use grape tomatoes or even canned diced tomatoes in a pinch. Freshness is key, so the riper, the better!
Pasta: I love using cavatappi or fusilli for this dish because they hold the sauce well. However, you can swap with any pasta you have on hand such as penne, spaghetti, or even gluten-free options if needed.
Basil: Fresh basil adds a bright flavor to the dish. If you’re in a bind, you could use dried basil, but cut the amount in half since dried herbs are more concentrated. For those who can’t have basil, try parsley or arugula for a different twist.
Mozzarella Balls: The small mozzarella balls (bocconcini) make this dish delightful. If you can’t find them, diced mozzarella cheese or even feta can work for a different texture and flavor.
Olive Oil: Extra virgin olive oil is my go-to for its taste and health benefits. If you need a substitute, avocado oil can be a good alternative for sautéing.
How Do I Achieve the Perfect Garlic Flavor Without Burning It?
Garlic is a fantastic flavor booster, but it can burn easily. To avoid this, always cook it on medium to low heat, and just for about a minute until fragrant. Here’s a simple guide:
- Start your skillet on medium heat and add the olive oil.
- Once the oil is warm, add the minced garlic and stir immediately.
- Keep an eye on it; you want the garlic to be fragrant and golden, not brown, which will turn bitter.
This careful approach will ensure you get flavorful garlic without unwanted bitterness in your dish.
How to Make Cherry Tomato and Basil Pasta
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Pasta:
- 8 oz pasta (e.g., cavatappi or fusilli)
For the Sauce:
- 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Finish:
- 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
- 1/2 cup mozzarella balls (bocconcini), halved
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Optional: extra basil leaves for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Cherry Tomato and Basil Pasta takes about 20 minutes to prepare. You’ll spend around 10 minutes cooking the pasta and making the sauce, with a few extra minutes for combining everything. It’s quick, easy, and full of flavor!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Once the water is boiling, add the pasta. Cook according to the package instructions until it’s al dente. Before draining, reserve about 1/2 cup of the pasta water. Once done, drain the pasta and set it aside.
2. Prepare the Sauce:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté it for about 1 minute until it becomes fragrant but isn’t browned—this will give your dish a lovely garlic flavor.
3. Cook the Cherry Tomatoes:
Now, add the halved cherry tomatoes to the skillet. Cook them for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally. You’ll want them to soften and start releasing their sweet juices.
4. Season the Mixture:
Stir in the red pepper flakes, along with some salt and pepper to taste. Let this mixture simmer for another 2-3 minutes to blend all those delicious flavors.
5. Combine Pasta and Sauce:
It’s time to bring it all together! Add the cooked pasta to the skillet, and pour in the reserved pasta water. Toss everything together until the pasta is well coated with the tomato mixture. If it’s looking a bit dry, add a little more pasta water.
6. Finish with Cheese and Basil:
Remove the skillet from heat and stir in the chopped basil and halved mozzarella balls. Mix gently until the mozzarella starts to warm through. It’s going to melt slightly and create a lovely creamy texture.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Dish out the pasta hot and sprinkle it generously with grated Parmesan cheese. If you like, add some extra basil leaves on top for a beautiful presentation. Enjoy your flavorful Cherry Tomato and Basil Pasta!
Can I Use Different Types of Pasta?
Absolutely! While cavatappi and fusilli work great, you can substitute any pasta shape you like. Just keep an eye on the cooking time, as different types may require more or less time to cook. Just ensure it’s al dente for the best texture!
What Can I Substitute for Mozzarella Balls?
If you don’t have mozzarella balls, you can use shredded mozzarella, feta, or even ricotta cheese as a substitute. If using shredded mozzarella, add it to the skillet a little earlier to melt it nicely into the dish.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm in a skillet with a splash of olive oil or a bit of water to help restore moisture without overcooking the pasta.
Can I Add Other Vegetables to This Recipe?
Yes, feel free to add other vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or spinach for extra flavor and nutrients! Just sauté them along with the garlic for a few minutes before adding the cherry tomatoes.
