Cherry Tomato Pasta
If you’re looking for a quick yet flavorful dish, cherry tomato pasta is your answer. This recipe showcases the sweetness of cherry tomatoes combined with pasta, making for a delightful meal that’s both satisfying and healthy. Perfect for weeknight dinners or a casual gathering, this dish is not only easy to prepare but also packed with vibrant flavors that will impress your family and friends.
Ingredients
– 200g spaghetti or linguine
– 300g cherry tomatoes, halved
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 3 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh basil leaves, for garnish
– Grated Parmesan cheese, optional
Servings and Cooking Time
This recipe serves 2. Preparation time is about 10 minutes, and cooking time is approximately 15 minutes.
Nutritional Value
Each serving (1 plate) contains approximately 400 calories, 15g of fat, 60g of carbohydrates, and 10g of protein. This is based on the ingredients listed and assumes no additional toppings.
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
2. Add spaghetti and cook according to package instructions until al dente.
3. While the pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
4. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 30 seconds.
5. Add halved cherry tomatoes to the skillet and cook for 5-7 minutes, until softened.
6. Season the tomato mixture with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Drain the pasta, reserving 1 cup of pasta water.
8. Add the drained pasta to the skillet with the tomatoes.
9. Toss together, adding reserved pasta water as needed to create a sauce.
10. Serve immediately, garnished with fresh basil and grated Parmesan if desired.
Alternative Ingredients
You can substitute spaghetti with gluten-free pasta or use zucchini noodles for a low-carb option. Additionally, cherry tomatoes can be replaced with grape tomatoes or even sun-dried tomatoes for a different flavor profile.
Serving and Pairings
Cherry tomato pasta pairs beautifully with a side of garlic bread or a fresh green salad. A light white wine, such as Pinot Grigio, complements the dish perfectly.
Storage and Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water or olive oil to loosen the pasta. Freezing is not recommended, as the texture may change.
Cooking Mistakes
- Overcooking the pasta can make it mushy.
- Not seasoning the pasta water sufficiently can lead to bland noodles.
- Using cold tomatoes straight from the fridge can hinder their flavor.
- Neglecting to reserve pasta water can result in a dry dish.
- Skipping the garlic can lead to a lack of depth in flavor.
Helpful Tips
- Use fresh, ripe cherry tomatoes for the best flavor.
- Experiment with different herbs like oregano or thyme.
- To enhance sweetness, you can roast the cherry tomatoes before adding them to the pasta.
- For a spicy kick, add red pepper flakes to the skillet.
FAQs
Can I use other types of pasta?
Yes, you can use any pasta shape you prefer, such as penne or fusilli. Just adjust the cooking time according to the package instructions.
Is this dish vegan?
Yes, if you omit the Parmesan cheese, this dish is entirely vegan and still delicious.
How can I make this pasta gluten-free?
Simply substitute regular pasta with gluten-free pasta, and follow the same cooking instructions.
Can I add protein to this dish?
Absolutely! Grilled chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas can be added for extra protein.
What can I do with leftover pasta?
Leftover pasta can be turned into a cold pasta salad or mixed into a frittata for a tasty breakfast option.
Conclusion
Cherry tomato pasta is a delightful, easy-to-make dish that showcases fresh ingredients and vibrant flavors. Perfect for any occasion, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your kitchen. Try it today and enjoy a burst of summer in every bite!
Cherry Tomato Pasta
Ingredients
- 200 g spaghetti or linguine
- 300 g cherry tomatoes halved
- 3 cloves garlic minced
- 3 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil leaves for garnish
- Grated Parmesan cheese optional
Instructions
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
- Add spaghetti and cook according to package instructions until al dente.
- While the pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 30 seconds.
- Add halved cherry tomatoes to the skillet and cook for 5-7 minutes, until softened.
- Season the tomato mixture with salt and pepper to taste.
- Drain the pasta, reserving 1 cup of pasta water.
- Add the drained pasta to the skillet with the tomatoes.
- Toss together, adding reserved pasta water as needed to create a sauce.
- Serve immediately, garnished with fresh basil and grated Parmesan if desired.