This simple pasta dish is packed with juicy cherry tomatoes and fragrant garlic. It’s quick to make and perfect for busy days when you want something fresh and tasty!
I whip it up in no time and love how the flavors burst in my mouth. Plus, you can enjoy it with a sprinkle of cheese on top for that extra yum factor! 🍝
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pasta: I typically use spaghetti for this dish, but you can switch it up with penne, fusilli, or even gluten-free pasta if needed. The type of pasta might change the texture, but it will still taste great!
Cherry Tomatoes: Fresh cherry tomatoes are sweet and juicy, but if they’re not in season, use grape tomatoes or canned diced tomatoes for a quick alternative.
Garlic: Fresh garlic gives the best flavor. If you’re in a pinch, garlic powder can work, but use it sparingly as it’s more potent. Roasted garlic is another tasty option if you want a sweeter, milder flavor.
Basil: Fresh basil adds a lovely aroma, but dried basil can be used if you don’t have fresh on hand. Just remember to reduce the amount, as dried herbs are more concentrated.
Parmesan Cheese: I love sprinkling fresh grated Parmesan on top for that cheesy finish. If you’re looking for a vegan option, try nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor without dairy.
How Do I Cook Pasta Perfectly?
Cooking pasta might seem easy, but a few simple tips can make a big difference!
- Use a large pot of water so the pasta can move freely. This helps it cook evenly.
- Don’t forget to salt the water! This is your opportunity to infuse flavor right from the start.
- Stir the pasta occasionally while cooking to prevent it from sticking together.
- Check for doneness a minute or so before the package suggests. Al dente means the pasta will have a slight bite to it!
- Before draining, save about a cup of the cooking water. This starchy water can help thicken your sauce.
Simple Pasta With Cherry Tomatoes and Garlic
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 12 oz (340 g) spaghetti or your favorite pasta
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, thinly sliced
- 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
- Salt, to taste
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, torn or chopped
- Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful pasta takes about 10 minutes to prepare and 10-12 minutes to cook. In just around 20-25 minutes, you’ll have a delicious meal ready to enjoy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Once it’s bubbling, add the spaghetti (or your favorite pasta). Cook it according to the package instructions, usually around 8-10 minutes, until al dente. Remember to stir occasionally to keep it from sticking together. Don’t forget to reserve 1 cup of the pasta water before draining the pasta!
2. Sauté the Garlic and Tomatoes:
While the pasta is cooking, heat the olive oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add the sliced garlic and let it cook for about 1-2 minutes, stirring frequently until it’s fragrant and lightly golden. Be careful not to burn it! Next, add the halved cherry tomatoes and a pinch of salt. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the tomatoes start to soften and burst.
3. Combine and Serve:
Once the pasta is cooked and drained, add it to the pan with the garlic and tomatoes. Toss everything together well. If the pasta seems a bit dry, gradually add a little of the reserved pasta water until you reach your desired consistency. Season with fresh black pepper and red pepper flakes if you like a bit of heat. Finally, stir in the fresh basil. Serve the pasta warm, topped with grated Parmesan cheese.
Enjoy your delicious and simple pasta dish with cherry tomatoes and garlic! Perfect for any weeknight dinner or a quick lunch.
Can I Use Different Types of Pasta?
Absolutely! While this recipe calls for spaghetti, you can use any pasta shape you prefer, like penne, fusilli, or even whole wheat pasta. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time according to the package instructions for that specific pasta.
Can I Substitute the Cherry Tomatoes?
If cherry tomatoes are not available, feel free to use grape tomatoes, or even canned diced tomatoes in a pinch. Just drain the canned tomatoes well and add them to the skillet with the garlic.
How Can I Make This Dish Vegan?
Making this dish vegan is easy! Simply omit the Parmesan cheese or substitute it with a vegan cheese alternative or nutritional yeast for that cheesy flavor without any dairy.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm them gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of olive oil or a little reserved pasta water if needed to keep it moist.