This Cherry Tomato and Basil Pasta is a fresh and colorful dish that’s super easy to whip up! Juicy cherry tomatoes and fragrant basil come together to create a tasty sauce that makes your pasta shine.
You can never go wrong with a hint of garlic and a drizzle of olive oil! I love to top it off with some grated cheese for extra yum. It’s a perfect meal for a cozy weeknight dinner! 🍝
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pasta: Cavatappi and penne are great choices for this dish, but you can use any pasta you love like fusilli, spaghetti, or even whole wheat pasta for a healthier option.
Cherry Tomatoes: Fresh cherry tomatoes bring a burst of sweetness. If they’re out of season, grape tomatoes or even canned diced tomatoes work well too—opt for a good quality brand for best flavor!
Fresh Basil: Basil adds a wonderful aroma and taste. If you can’t find fresh basil, dried basil can be used instead, but use less since it’s more concentrated. Maybe try a bit of fresh thyme or parsley for a different flavor!
Fresh Mozzarella: I love using bocconcini for its creaminess. If you can’t find it, cubed mozzarella or even feta cheese can be delicious alternatives. Feta gives a nice tang, too!
Garlic: Fresh garlic is key for depth of flavor. If you have garlic powder on hand, it can substitute, but use about a third of the amount since it’s stronger. I find fresh really makes a difference!
How Can I Avoid Overcooking the Pasta?
Cooking pasta perfectly is essential! Always check the package instructions for cooking times but here are some tips:
- Start tasting the pasta a minute or two before the time’s up to see if it’s firm but cooked, known as ‘al dente’ (to the bite).
- Always save some pasta water before draining; it helps create a sauce later by adding starch back into the dish.
- Drain the pasta but don’t rinse it. Rinsing washes away the starch that helps sauces stick.
How to Make Cherry Tomato and Basil Pasta
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 12 oz pasta (such as cavatappi or penne)
- 1 pint cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
- 1 cup fresh mozzarella balls (bocconcini), halved
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful Cherry Tomato and Basil Pasta takes about 20 minutes to prepare and cook. It’s a quick and easy dish that’s perfect for busy weeknights or a lovely dinner with friends!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Start by boiling a large pot of salted water. Add the pasta and cook according to the package instructions until it’s al dente (cooked but still firm). Remember to reserve 1 cup of the pasta water before draining it! Once drained, set the pasta aside for later.
2. Sauté the Garlic:
In a large skillet, pour in the olive oil and heat it over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté it for about 1 minute until it smells amazing! Be careful not to let it brown too much, as burnt garlic can taste bitter.
3. Cook the Cherry Tomatoes:
Next, toss the halved cherry tomatoes into the skillet. Cook them for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally. You want the tomatoes to soften and start releasing their juices. This will create a lovely base for your sauce!
4. Combine Pasta and Seasonings:
Now it’s time to bring everything together! Add the cooked pasta to the skillet, followed by the chopped basil and red pepper flakes. Toss everything together, using a bit of the reserved pasta water to help create a light, delicious sauce that coats the pasta beautifully.
5. Add Mozzarella:
Remove the skillet from heat and gently fold in the halved mozzarella balls. They will warm through nicely without melting completely, giving you that lovely chewy texture.
6. Final Touches:
Season your pasta dish with salt, pepper, and the grated Parmesan cheese. Toss everything again to ensure it’s well combined and wonderfully tasty!
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Your Cherry Tomato and Basil Pasta is ready to enjoy! Serve immediately, and feel free to garnish with extra Parmesan cheese and fresh basil if you like. Dig in and enjoy this fresh and flavorful dish!
Can I Use Other Types of Pasta?
Absolutely! While cavatappi and penne work great, you can use any pasta shape you have on hand, such as fusilli, farfalle, or even spaghetti. Just keep an eye on the cooking time, as different shapes can vary.
What Can I Substitute for Fresh Mozzarella?
If you don’t have fresh mozzarella, you can use shredded mozzarella or even feta cheese for a different flavor profile. If using shredded cheese, add it to the dish just before serving so it melts slightly without becoming rubbery.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, add a splash of water or olive oil to the pasta and microwave or heat gently on the stovetop to help loosen the sauce.
