Cherry Tomato Pasta: A Simple, Delicious Recipe
This recipe for cherry tomato pasta is incredibly easy to make, requiring minimal ingredients and time, yet delivers maximum flavor. It's perfect for a weeknight dinner when you want something quick, tasty, and satisfying. The vibrant color of the cherry tomatoes makes it visually appealing, too! Let's dive in!
Ingredients You'll Need:
- 1 pound pasta: Your favorite shape will work – spaghetti, linguine, or even penne would be delicious.
- 1 pint cherry tomatoes: Halved or quartered, depending on their size.
- 2 cloves garlic: Minced. Don't skip this – garlic adds so much flavor!
- 2 tablespoons olive oil: Extra virgin olive oil is best for its rich flavor.
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper: To taste. Season generously!
- Fresh basil: A handful, roughly chopped (optional, but highly recommended).
- Parmesan cheese: Grated, for serving (optional, but highly recommended).
- Red pepper flakes: A pinch (optional, for a little heat).
Instructions: A Step-by-Step Guide
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Cook the pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to the package directions until al dente. Reserve about 1/2 cup of pasta water before draining.
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Sauté the garlic: While the pasta is cooking, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds, or until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic!
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Cook the tomatoes: Add the halved or quartered cherry tomatoes to the skillet and cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they begin to soften and release their juices.
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Combine pasta and sauce: Add the drained pasta to the skillet with the tomatoes and garlic. Toss to combine. If the sauce is too thick, add a little of the reserved pasta water until you reach your desired consistency.
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Season and serve: Season generously with salt, freshly ground black pepper, and a pinch of red pepper flakes (if using). Stir in the fresh basil. Serve immediately, topped with grated Parmesan cheese (if using).
Tips and Variations:
- Add protein: For a heartier meal, add cooked chicken, sausage, or shrimp to the pasta.
- Boost the flavor: A splash of white wine or a squeeze of lemon juice can elevate the sauce.
- Make it creamy: Stir in a dollop of ricotta cheese or cream cheese for a richer, creamier pasta dish.
- Use different herbs: Experiment with other fresh herbs like oregano or thyme.
- Roast the tomatoes: For a deeper, sweeter flavor, roast the cherry tomatoes in the oven before adding them to the skillet.
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Conclusion:
This simple cherry tomato pasta recipe is a winner! Its ease of preparation and delicious flavor make it a perfect go-to for any night of the week. Enjoy! Remember to experiment and adapt the recipe to your preferences; that’s the beauty of cooking!
