15-Minute Cherry Tomato Basil Pasta Recipe
Introduction
This 15-Minute Cherry Tomato Basil Pasta is a fresh, vibrant dish perfect for busy weeknights. With juicy cherry tomatoes, fragrant basil, and garlic-infused olive oil, it’s simple yet packed with flavor.
Ingredients
- 1 (1-pound) package of angel hair spaghetti
- ¼ cup of olive oil
- 5 garlic cloves, minced
- 3 pints of cherry or grape tomatoes, cut into quarters
- 1 cup of chopped basil
- ½ teaspoon of salt
Instructions
- Step 1: Cook the pasta according to package instructions. Reserve ½ cup of the pasta water, then drain the pasta and set it aside.
- Step 2: In the same pot over medium heat, warm the olive oil. Add the minced garlic and cherry tomatoes, cooking for 2 to 3 minutes while gently mashing the tomatoes with the back of a spatula or wooden spoon.
- Step 3: Stir in the chopped basil, salt, cooked pasta, and reserved pasta water. Toss everything together until well combined and heated through.
Tips & Variations
- Use fresh basil leaves for the best flavor, and add a squeeze of lemon juice for brightness.
- Swap angel hair pasta with spaghetti or linguine if preferred.
- Add a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese or red pepper flakes for extra richness or heat.
Storage
Store leftover pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a pan with a splash of water or olive oil to restore moisture.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I use other types of tomatoes?
Yes, grape tomatoes or small plum tomatoes work well. If using larger tomatoes, chop them into bite-sized pieces.
What can I do if I don’t have fresh basil?
Dried basil can be used as a substitute, but add it earlier in the cooking process to allow the flavor to develop.
Print15-Minute Cherry Tomato Basil Pasta Recipe
This 15-Minute Cherry Tomato Basil Pasta is a simple, fresh, and vibrant dish featuring angel hair spaghetti tossed with a garlicky cherry tomato sauce and fragrant basil. Perfect for a quick weeknight meal, it combines the sweetness of cherry tomatoes with aromatic basil and olive oil for a light yet satisfying pasta experience.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: 4 to 6 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
Pasta
- 1 (1-pound) package of angel hair spaghetti
Sauce
- ¼ cup olive oil
- 5 garlic cloves, minced
- 3 pints cherry or grape tomatoes, cut into quarters
- 1 cup chopped fresh basil
- ½ teaspoon salt
Instructions
- Cook the pasta: Cook the angel hair spaghetti according to the package instructions until al dente. Reserve ½ cup of the pasta cooking water, then drain the pasta and set it aside.
- Prepare the tomato sauce: Using the same pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and quartered cherry tomatoes. Cook for 2 to 3 minutes while gently mashing the tomatoes with the back of a spatula or wooden spoon to release their juices and create a light sauce.
- Combine and finish: Stir in the chopped basil, salt, cooked pasta, and reserved pasta water. Toss everything together until the pasta is coated evenly with the sauce and the basil is well distributed. Serve immediately.
Notes
- Reserve the pasta water to help loosen the sauce and bind it to the noodles.
- Use fresh basil for the best flavor; dried basil will not have the same vibrant taste.
- Adjust salt to taste depending on the saltiness of your pasta water and personal preference.
- You can add grated Parmesan or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for extra flavor.
- This dish is best served immediately as angel hair pasta can become mushy if left too long.
Keywords: cherry tomato pasta, basil pasta, angel hair pasta, quick pasta recipe, Italian pasta, vegetarian pasta, easy dinner
