15-Minute Cherry Tomato Basil Pasta Recipe
Introduction
This 15-Minute Cherry Tomato Basil Pasta is a quick and fresh dish perfect for busy weeknights. With simple ingredients and vibrant flavors, it delivers a light yet satisfying meal that comes together in no time.
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 pasta water before draining the pasta, then set the pasta aside.
- Step 2: In the same pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and chopped 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
- For extra flavor, add a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes when cooking the garlic and tomatoes.
- Substitute angel hair with linguine or spaghetti if preferred.
- Top with freshly grated Parmesan cheese for a richer taste.
- Add cooked shrimp or grilled chicken for a protein boost.
Storage
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of olive oil or water to keep the pasta moist.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of cherry tomatoes?
Yes, you can use fresh tomatoes chopped into small pieces, but cherry or grape tomatoes work best because they release juice quickly and are naturally sweet.
Is this dish suitable for vegan diets?
Absolutely, this recipe is vegan as written. Just avoid adding cheese or substitute it with a vegan alternative to keep it plant-based.
Print15-Minute Cherry Tomato Basil Pasta Recipe
A fresh and vibrant 15-minute cherry tomato basil pasta featuring angel hair spaghetti tossed in a garlic-infused olive oil sauce with juicy quartered cherry tomatoes and fragrant basil. Perfect for a quick and flavorful weeknight meal.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
Primary 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
- Cook the Pasta: Cook the angel hair spaghetti according to the package instructions until al dente. Reserve ½ cup of the pasta water, then drain the pasta and set it aside.
- Prepare the Sauce: In the same pot used for pasta, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and quartered tomatoes. Cook for 2 to 3 minutes, gently mashing the tomatoes with the back of a spatula or wooden spoon to release their juices and create a light sauce.
- Toss and Serve: Stir in the chopped basil, salt, cooked pasta, and reserved pasta water. Mix well until the pasta is evenly coated with the sauce and heated through. Serve immediately.
Notes
- Reserve pasta water to help emulsify the sauce for a silkier texture.
- Use fresh basil for the best flavor and aroma.
- Adjust salt to taste, especially if using salted pasta water.
- Optional: sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese or crushed red pepper flakes for added flavor.
- Quickly mashing tomatoes helps release natural juices without overcooking.
Keywords: cherry tomato pasta, quick pasta recipe, basil pasta, easy pasta dinner, vegetarian pasta
