This Easy Cherry Tomato Basil Pasta is bursting with fresh flavors! Juicy cherry tomatoes mingle with fragrant basil, all tossed together in a simple pasta dish that’s perfect for any day of the week.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pasta: I love using pasta shells because they hold onto the sauce nicely. However, you can use any pasta you have on hand, like spaghetti, penne, or fusilli. Just cook it according to the package instructions until it’s al dente!
Cherry Tomatoes: Fresh cherry tomatoes are key to this dish for sweetness and flavor. If you can’t find them, you could use grape tomatoes. In a pinch, you might also consider canned diced tomatoes, though they won’t be quite as fresh.
Fresh Mozzarella: I enjoy the creamy texture of fresh mozzarella balls. If you’re looking for a lower-fat option, you might use part-skim mozzarella or even crumbled feta for a different flavor twist.
Basil: Fresh basil pairs beautifully with this dish, but if you’re out, dried basil can be used instead. Note that dried herbs are more potent, so use about one-third the amount you would of fresh.
How Do I Perfectly Cook the Pasta?
Cooking pasta might seem simple, but getting it just right is important. Here’s how to ensure your pasta has the best texture:
- Start with a large pot of salted water. Use about 1 tablespoon of salt for every 4-6 quarts of water. This helps flavor the pasta!
- Bring the water to a rolling boil before adding the pasta. This prevents it from getting gummy.
- Taste the pasta a minute or two before the package’s cooking time is up. You want it al dente, which means it should be firm when bitten.
- Don’t rinse your pasta after draining! This washes away the starch that helps the sauce stick.
Easy Cherry Tomato Basil Pasta
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Pasta and Vegetables:
- 8 oz pasta shells or your preferred pasta
- 1 pint cherry tomatoes, halved
Cheese:
- 8 oz fresh mozzarella balls (bocconcini)
- 1/4 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
Flavorings:
- 2 tbsp olive oil, plus extra for drizzling
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
- 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful pasta dish takes about 15 minutes to prepare and 10 minutes to cook, so you will be enjoying your meal in roughly 25 minutes! It’s perfect for a quick dinner or a delicious lunch.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Once boiling, cook the pasta according to the package instructions until it’s al dente. This usually takes around 8-10 minutes. Remember to save about 1/2 cup of the pasta water before draining; we’ll need it later!
2. Sauté the Garlic:
While the pasta is cooking, grab a large skillet and heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic to the skillet and sauté it for about 1 minute, or until it becomes fragrant. Keep an eye on it—garlic can burn quickly!
3. Cook the Cherry Tomatoes:
Next, add the halved cherry tomatoes to your skillet. Cook them for about 4-5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they start to soften and release their lovely juices. This will create a beautiful sauce!
4. Add Seasonings:
Once the tomatoes are softened, stir in the fresh basil and red pepper flakes. Season generously with salt and black pepper to your liking. The aroma will be wonderful!
5. Combine Pasta and Sauce:
Now, it’s time to make everything come together. Add your drained pasta to the skillet with the tomato mixture. Toss everything to combine well, adding a splash of the reserved pasta water to create a light coating sauce that clings to the pasta perfectly.
6. Serve with Cheese:
Transfer the pasta to serving plates and top each plate with fresh mozzarella balls, evenly distributed. It’s like a little surprise for each bite!
7. Finishing Touches:
Drizzle a little extra olive oil over the mozzarella and sprinkle the freshly grated Parmesan cheese on top. If you love a bit more heat, feel free to add another pinch of red pepper flakes or black pepper.
8. Enjoy Your Creation!
Serve the pasta immediately while it’s warm and enjoy this flavorful, vibrant Easy Cherry Tomato Basil Pasta! It’s a wonderful dish to share with family or friends!
Can I Use Other Types of Pasta?
Absolutely! While this recipe calls for pasta shells, you can use any pasta you prefer, such as spaghetti, penne, or fusilli. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time as necessary based on the type of pasta you’re using.
What If I Don’t Have Fresh Basil?
If fresh basil isn’t available, you can substitute with dried basil. Use about one-third of the amount since dried herbs are more concentrated. Alternatively, you could try using other fresh herbs like parsley or oregano for a different flavor profile.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of water or olive oil if needed to bring back moisture.
Can I Make This Recipe Vegan?
Yes! To make this dish vegan, simply omit the cheese or substitute it with vegan mozzarella and nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor. Ensure your pasta is also egg-free, which many dry pasta brands offer.
