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Pasta with Cherry Tomatoes Recipe

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4.3 from 3 reviews

A simple and vibrant pasta dish featuring al dente spaghetti tossed in a flavorful sauce made from sautéed cherry tomatoes, garlic, fresh basil, and Parmesan cheese. Ready in just 15 minutes, this recipe is perfect for a quick, comforting meal bursting with fresh, summery flavors.

Ingredients

Pasta

  • 8 ounces spaghetti

Sauce

  • ¼ cup olive oil
  • 2 pints cherry tomatoes
  • 3 garlic cloves, minced
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • ½ teaspoon crushed red pepper
  • ½ cup fresh basil, chopped (plus more for serving)
  • ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese (plus more for serving)

Instructions

  1. Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of heavily salted water to a boil. Add the spaghetti and cook until al dente according to package directions. Reserve ½ cup of the pasta cooking water, then drain the pasta and set aside.
  2. Prepare the Tomato Sauce: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the cherry tomatoes and cook, stirring occasionally, until the tomatoes soften, about 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic, salt, and crushed red pepper; cook for 1 more minute until fragrant.
  3. Mash the Tomatoes: Using the back of a spoon or a potato masher, gently mash the tomatoes to release their juices. Continue cooking for 5 more minutes, allowing the tomatoes to burst and create a flavorful sauce.
  4. Toss Pasta with Sauce: Add the drained spaghetti to the skillet with the tomato sauce. Add the chopped fresh basil and grated Parmesan cheese. Toss everything together, adding reserved pasta water gradually to reach your desired sauce consistency.
  5. Serve: Serve the pasta immediately, garnished with extra fresh basil and Parmesan cheese if desired for added flavor and presentation.

Notes

  • Reserve pasta water to adjust sauce consistency without thinning flavor.
  • For a spicier kick, increase crushed red pepper quantity.
  • Fresh basil added at the end preserves its bright flavor and color.
  • Use high-quality olive oil and Parmesan for best flavor.
  • Can be served with a side of crusty bread for a complete meal.