This Easy Cherry Tomato and Basil Pasta is a quick and tasty dish! With fresh cherry tomatoes and fragrant basil, it’s bursting with flavor. Perfect for a simple weeknight meal!
I love how this pasta comes together in just minutes. The juicy tomatoes are like little bursts of sunshine! Plus, who doesn’t love a meal that looks fancy but is super easy to make? 🍅
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pasta: I love using pasta shells for this dish, as their shape holds onto the sauce beautifully. You can swap them with any short pasta, like fusilli or penne, if you prefer! Even spaghetti works in a pinch.
Cherry Tomatoes: These little gems add sweetness and color. If they’re not in season, try using grape tomatoes or even canned diced tomatoes for a different but still tasty option.
Fresh Mozzarella: These cheese balls bring creaminess. You can substitute with feta or ricotta if you’re after something different or if mozzarella is hard to find. They will change the flavor but still taste great!
Basil: Fresh basil is key for that aromatic touch. If you have dried basil on hand, use about 1 teaspoon as a substitute. Fresh herbs will always give a brighter taste, though!
How Do I Get the Tomatoes to Release Their Juices Properly?
Getting the tomatoes to soften and burst with flavor is crucial for this dish. Here’s how to do it right:
- Heat olive oil in a skillet on medium. Watch that it doesn’t get too hot because burnt garlic tastes bitter!
- Add garlic and red pepper flakes first for a quick sauté, then add the halved cherry tomatoes.
- Stir occasionally for about 5 minutes, allowing them to cook down. Don’t rush this process—it develops their sweet flavor.
By cooking until they release their juices, you’ll create a simple but flavorful sauce that perfectly coats the pasta! This part is all about patience, which pays off big time in taste.
Easy Cherry Tomato and Basil Pasta
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Pasta and Tomatoes
- 8 oz pasta shells (or your favorite short pasta)
- 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
Cheese and Flavorings
- 1 cup fresh mozzarella balls (bocconcini)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil, plus extra for drizzle
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
- 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus extra for serving
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious pasta dish can be prepared in about 20 minutes! You’ll spend around 10 minutes boiling the pasta and about 10 minutes sautéing the tomatoes and combining everything together. Fast, fresh, and perfect for a busy night!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Boil the Pasta:
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta shells and cook according to the package instructions until they’re al dente (firm to the bite). Once done, drain the pasta, but keep about 1/4 cup of the pasta water to use later. Set both aside.
2. Sauté Garlic and Red Pepper:
While the pasta is cooking, take a large skillet and heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and red pepper flakes to the pan. Sauté everything for about 1 minute, just enough time for the garlic to become fragrant—don’t let it brown!
3. Cook the Cherry Tomatoes:
Add the halved cherry tomatoes to the skillet. Stir them occasionally as they cook down, for about 5 minutes. You’ll want them to soften and start to release their juices, creating a lovely sauce.
4. Combine Pasta and Sauce:
Now it’s time to add the drained pasta to the skillet with the tomato mixture. Toss everything together gently, making sure the pasta is well-coated in the sauce. If you feel the dish is too dry, add a splash of the reserved pasta water to loosen it up a bit.
5. Add Basil and Cheese:
Remove the skillet from heat and stir in the chopped basil and grated Parmesan cheese until combined. Taste your pasta and season it with salt and freshly ground black pepper to your liking.
6. Serve It Up:
Plate the pasta into serving dishes and top each portion with fresh mozzarella balls. Drizzle a bit of olive oil over the top, and if you like, sprinkle a few extra red pepper flakes and Parmesan cheese for garnish.
7. Enjoy!
Serve immediately while it’s hot and enjoy the burst of flavors from the cherry tomatoes, creamy mozzarella, and aromatic basil. This dish is simple yet elegant—perfect for any occasion!
With its vibrant colors and wonderful taste, this Easy Cherry Tomato and Basil Pasta is sure to become a favorite!
FAQ for Easy Cherry Tomato and Basil Pasta
Can I Use Different Types of Pasta?
Absolutely! While the recipe calls for pasta shells, any short pasta like fusilli, penne, or even farfalle will work well. Just keep an eye on the cooking time, as it may vary slightly depending on the shape.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover pasta in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of water or olive oil to help revive the sauce and prevent it from drying out.
Can I Substitute the Fresh Mozzarella?
Yes! If fresh mozzarella is not available, you can use feta cheese for a tangy twist or ricotta for a creamier texture. Both alternatives will still complement the dish wonderfully, though the flavor will change slightly.
What Other Vegetables Can I Add?
If you want to boost the veggie factor, feel free to add spinach, zucchini, or bell peppers. Just sauté them with the garlic and red pepper before adding the tomatoes for added flavor and nutrition!
