If you’re on the hunt for a vibrant, fresh, and utterly satisfying pasta dish, this Cherry Tomato & Basil Pasta Recipe is a total winner. Bursting with juicy cherry tomatoes, fragrant basil, and just the right touch of garlic and chili, it brings a perfect balance of bright, savory, and mildly spicy flavors to your plate. Plus, it’s incredibly quick and easy to make, transforming simple ingredients into a dish that feels like a special treat any night of the week.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Every ingredient in this Cherry Tomato & Basil Pasta Recipe plays a crucial role, creating layers of flavor, delightful textures, and beautiful colors. The selection is straightforward yet essential for that authentic Italian-inspired taste you’ll love.
- 12 oz pasta (spaghetti, linguine, or penne): The pasta of your choice is the canvas where all flavors come together.
- 3 tablespoons olive oil: Adds richness and helps carry the flavors beautifully.
- 3 cloves garlic, minced: Infuses a lovely aroma and gentle heat to the dish.
- 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved: These little bursts of sweetness soften perfectly to form a juicy sauce.
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional): Adds a subtle kick to balance sweetness and savory notes.
- Salt and pepper, to taste: Enhances all flavors without overpowering them.
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Provides a nutty, salty finish that ties everything together.
- 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped or torn: The star herb for that fresh, peppery, and slightly sweet flavor.
- Optional: Extra olive oil for drizzling: For a final touch of silkiness and shine on the plate.
How to Make Cherry Tomato & Basil Pasta Recipe
Step 1: Boil the Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook your chosen pasta according to the package instructions until it reaches al dente. This stage sets the foundation for the dish, ensuring each noodle has perfect bite and texture.
Step 2: Reserve Pasta Water and Drain Pasta
Before draining, scoop out a cup of the starchy pasta water and set it aside. This liquid is magic for adjusting your sauce later, helping bind the tomatoes and pasta together smoothly.
Step 3: Sauté the Garlic
Warm the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1 to 2 minutes until it’s wonderfully fragrant but not browned or burnt—this step layers in a warm, enticing flavor base.
Step 4: Cook Cherry Tomatoes
Introduce the halved cherry tomatoes to the garlic oil and cook for 5 to 7 minutes, stirring occasionally. You’ll notice the tomatoes soften and begin releasing their juicy goodness, creating a natural, fresh sauce.
Step 5: Add Red Pepper Flakes
Sprinkle in the red pepper flakes if you want a subtle heat boost. Stir gently to combine. The flakes wake up the palate and elevate the dish without overpowering the delicate tomato and basil flavors.
Step 6: Combine Pasta with Sauce
Toss the cooked pasta into the skillet with the tomatoes and garlic. Stir them together so every strand or piece gets coated with that flavorful mixture. If the sauce looks too thick, add reserved pasta water little by little to reach that silky, luscious consistency.
Step 7: Season and Finish With Basil and Parmesan
Season with salt and freshly ground pepper to taste. Remove from heat and fold in the chopped fresh basil and grated Parmesan cheese. This finishes the dish with aromatic freshness and savory richness that sings in every bite.
Step 8: Optional Olive Oil Drizzle
For extra indulgence, drizzle a bit more olive oil on top before serving. It adds a gorgeous glossy finish and a smooth mouthfeel that makes this simple pasta feel like a gourmet experience.
How to Serve Cherry Tomato & Basil Pasta Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh basil leaves and a generous sprinkle of Parmesan are classic garnishes that enhance the dish’s vibrant colors and tastes. If you want a bit more texture, toasted pine nuts or a crack of fresh black pepper add delightful touches too.
Side Dishes
This pasta pairs wonderfully with light sides like a crisp green salad or garlic bread. If you’re aiming for a heartier meal, roasted vegetables or grilled chicken offer satisfying complementing flavors without overshadowing the pasta’s fresh notes.
Creative Ways to Present
For dinner parties or a more special presentation, serve the pasta in a large colorful bowl or on individual plates garnished with basil sprigs and Parmesan curls. A small drizzle of balsamic glaze can add an unexpected elegance and a hint of tangy sweetness.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep any leftover Cherry Tomato & Basil Pasta Recipe in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to 3 days, making it a perfect quick lunch or dinner option without losing flavor.
Freezing
While fresh pasta dishes like this shine best served immediately, you can freeze leftovers by placing them in freezer-safe containers. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating, though texture might be slightly softer than freshly made.
Reheating
Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of water or olive oil to loosen the sauce as needed. Avoid microwave reheating if possible to retain the freshest flavors and best texture.
FAQs
Can I use other types of tomatoes?
Absolutely! While cherry tomatoes bring sweetness and quick cooking time, grape tomatoes or even diced Roma tomatoes can be used, though cooking times may vary slightly.
Is this recipe vegan-friendly?
To make it vegan, simply omit the Parmesan cheese or substitute with a plant-based cheese alternative. The rest of the ingredients are naturally vegan.
Can I add protein to this pasta?
Yes, grilled chicken, shrimp, or even crispy tofu can be wonderful additions that boost nutrition and make the meal more filling.
What pasta shape works best?
Spaghetti, linguine, or penne all work wonderfully for this recipe. Choose based on your personal preference, as each holds the sauce slightly differently.
How spicy is the dish with red pepper flakes?
The red pepper flakes add just a gentle warmth that balances the sweetness of the tomatoes without overwhelming the palate. Feel free to adjust or omit based on your heat preference.
Final Thoughts
I can’t recommend this Cherry Tomato & Basil Pasta Recipe enough for anyone craving a simple yet show-stopping meal. It’s quick, fresh, and packed full of flavor, making it one of those dishes you’ll want to partner with good company and a crunchy baguette. Trust me, once you try it, this recipe will become a fast favorite in your kitchen rotation!
Print
Cherry Tomato & Basil Pasta Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A simple and vibrant Cherry Tomato & Basil Pasta recipe featuring al dente pasta tossed in a fragrant garlic and olive oil sauce with fresh cherry tomatoes, red pepper flakes for a hint of heat, and finished with grated Parmesan and fresh basil. Perfect for a quick, flavorful weeknight dinner that celebrates fresh ingredients.
Ingredients
Pasta
- 12 oz pasta (spaghetti, linguine, or penne)
Sauce & Toppings
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped or torn
- Optional: Extra olive oil for drizzling
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente, usually 8-10 minutes. Reserve a cup of pasta water before draining.
- Heat Olive Oil: In a large skillet over medium heat, add 3 tablespoons of olive oil and warm it gently to prepare for sautéing.
- Sauté Garlic: Add the minced garlic to the heated oil and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant, taking care not to let the garlic burn to preserve its flavor.
- Add Tomatoes: Stir in the halved cherry tomatoes and cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the tomatoes soften and begin to release their natural juices.
- Add Red Pepper Flakes and Seasoning: Sprinkle in the red pepper flakes if using and season with salt and pepper to taste, stirring to combine evenly.
- Incorporate Pasta: Add the cooked pasta directly to the skillet with the tomato mixture and toss to combine thoroughly.
- Meld Flavors: Stir and let the mixture cook together for another minute, allowing the pasta to absorb the flavors.
- Add Pasta Water: If the sauce seems too dry, gradually pour reserved pasta water, a few tablespoons at a time, until the desired saucy consistency is achieved.
- Mix in Parmesan and Basil: Sprinkle in grated Parmesan and chopped or torn fresh basil leaves into the pasta, tossing gently to combine and melt the cheese slightly.
- Adjust Seasoning: Taste the pasta and adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper as needed to suit your palate.
- Plate the Pasta: Serve the pasta hot, arranged on plates or a serving bowl.
- Garnish and Serve: Drizzle with extra olive oil if desired and garnish with extra Parmesan and basil leaves before serving.
Notes
- Reserve pasta water to help loosen the sauce and add creaminess without extra oil or cheese.
- Use ripe cherry tomatoes for the best natural sweetness and flavor.
- Adjust red pepper flakes amount according to desired spiciness.
- Fresh basil is best added at the end to preserve its bright flavor and color.
- Parmesan cheese can be substituted with Pecorino Romano or a vegan Parmesan alternative for a dairy-free version.
- This recipe can easily be doubled for a larger crowd.
- To keep it vegan, omit the Parmesan and use nutritional yeast or vegan cheese alternatives.
