If you’re craving a taste of summer, look no further than Cherry Tomato & Basil Pasta. This lively, colorful creation brings together sweet, juicy cherry tomatoes and fragrant basil leaves, all tossed with perfectly cooked pasta and a shower of Parmesan cheese. It’s fresh, quick, and so satisfying — the kind of dish you can whip up any night and still wow your family or friends. The simplicity is where the magic happens, letting each ingredient sing, making Cherry Tomato & Basil Pasta a staple in my kitchen and soon, hopefully, in yours too!

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Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of Cherry Tomato & Basil Pasta is how it transforms simple, everyday ingredients into something unforgettable. Each component has a special role — nothing extra, nothing missing, just pure deliciousness in every bite.

Spaghetti or your favorite pasta (12 ounces): Provides the hearty base and lovable texture that soaks up all the amazing flavors.
Olive oil (2 tablespoons): Adds fruity richness and helps the garlic become fragrant.
Garlic, minced (3 cloves): The aromatic kickstart that perfumes the whole dish — don’t skip it!
Cherry tomatoes, halved (3 cups): Sweet, tangy, and juicy, they’re the stars that burst into a silky sauce.
Red pepper flakes (1/2 teaspoon, optional): For a subtle heat that elevates the whole experience.
Salt and black pepper, to taste: Essential seasonings that pull everything into delicious harmony.
Fresh basil leaves, chopped (1/2 cup): The classic Italian herb adds fresh, green flavor and irresistible aroma.
Grated Parmesan cheese (1/4 cup, plus more for serving): A nutty, salty blanket of goodness that finishes the pasta.
Balsamic vinegar (1 tablespoon, optional): Just a splash for an extra layer of tangy sweetness — totally worth trying!
Reserved pasta water, as needed: The secret to creamy, clingy sauce that hugs the noodles.

How to Make Cherry Tomato & Basil Pasta

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil, then add your spaghetti (or preferred pasta). Cook it until al dente, following package instructions for the perfect texture. Just before you drain the pasta, scoop out about 1/2 cup of that starchy cooking water — it’s liquid gold for your sauce!

Step 2: Sauté the Garlic

While your pasta cooks, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and let it sizzle for about 30 seconds. You want it aromatic, not browned. The garlic lays down a flavorful foundation for the Cherry Tomato & Basil Pasta sauce.

Step 3: Cook the Tomatoes

Add your halved cherry tomatoes to the skillet, followed by the red pepper flakes if you like a bit of heat. Season with salt and pepper. Stir everything together and let the tomatoes cook for 6 to 8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they soften, release their juices, and start to burst. This is where the magic starts to happen!

Step 4: Toss Everything Together

Drain the pasta and add it directly to the skillet with the tomato mixture. Toss, toss, toss! The warmth of the pasta will help the tomatoes become a glossy sauce that clings to every strand. If the sauce looks too thick, add a splash or two of that reserved pasta water until everything is coated beautifully.

Step 5: Finishing Touches

Sprinkle in the chopped fresh basil, the Parmesan cheese, and (if you’re feeling adventurous) the balsamic vinegar. Give it all a final toss to distribute those incredible flavors. Taste, adjust the seasoning, and get ready for a plateful of Cherry Tomato & Basil Pasta bliss.

How to Serve Cherry Tomato & Basil Pasta

Garnishes

For a little extra flair, shower your Cherry Tomato & Basil Pasta with more grated Parmesan and a few whole basil leaves. A crack of fresh black pepper or a light drizzle of olive oil just before serving takes it over the top.

Side Dishes

This pasta pairs beautifully with a crisp green salad — think arugula or mixed baby greens, simply dressed. Some crusty bread for mopping up leftover sauce never goes amiss, and a chilled glass of white wine makes dinner feel like a celebration.

Creative Ways to Present

If you want to impress, twirl the pasta into tall nests on each plate, tuck in some bright cherry tomatoes and basil on top, then sprinkle with cheese. Try serving it family-style in a big bowl for a relaxed, communal feel. No matter how you plate it, the vibrant colors and fresh aroma will steal the show.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover Cherry Tomato & Basil Pasta in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. The flavors meld together even more overnight, making your leftovers nearly as dreamy as day one.

Freezing

While possible, freezing isn’t recommended because the tomatoes can lose their fresh texture. If you must, freeze in a well-sealed container for up to one month, then thaw gently in the fridge before reheating. For best results, enjoy this dish fresh or as next-day leftovers.

Reheating

Reheat Cherry Tomato & Basil Pasta on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of water to loosen the sauce if needed. Stir gently until warmed through. The microwave works in a pinch, but keep the heat low and cover it to prevent drying out.

FAQs

Can I use a different type Main Course

Absolutely! While spaghetti is classic, you can use penne, linguine, fusilli, or whatever shapes you have on hand. The Cherry Tomato & Basil Pasta recipe is quite forgiving.

How do I make this gluten-free?

Just substitute your favorite gluten-free pasta. Everything else in the dish is naturally gluten-free, so it’s an easy swap that doesn’t affect the flavor.

What protein can I add for a heartier meal?

Try tossing in some grilled chicken, shrimp, or even white beans for an extra protein punch. They blend beautifully with the summery flavors of cherry tomato and basil.

Can I use canned tomatoes instead of fresh cherry tomatoes?

Fresh cherry tomatoes deliver the sweetest, most intense flavor, but in a pinch, you can use good-quality canned diced or whole tomatoes. Let them simmer until they break down and add a bit of sugar if needed.

Is Cherry Tomato & Basil Pasta good for meal prep?

It works beautifully for meal prep. Make a batch in advance, store in individual containers, and reheat for quick, vibrant lunches throughout the week. Add a fresh sprinkle of basil and Parmesan before serving for that just-made taste!

Final Thoughts

I can’t say enough good things about Cherry Tomato & Basil Pasta — it’s a weeknight hero and a dinner party showstopper in one. With its effortless prep, bright flavors, and crowd-pleasing vibes, you’ll find yourself coming back to it again and again. Give it a try and let it bring a burst of sunshine to your table!

Cilantro Lime Noodles: A Refreshing and Flavorful Recipe to Try Today Recipe

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4.5 from 22 reviews

Author: admin
Total Time: 25 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

A delightful and simple recipe for Cherry Tomato & Basil Pasta that brings together the freshness of cherry tomatoes, aromatic basil, and savory Parmesan cheese, tossed with perfectly cooked pasta.

Ingredients

Scale

Pasta:

12 ounces spaghetti or your favorite pasta

Sauce:

2 tablespoons olive oil
3 cloves garlic, minced
3 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
Salt and black pepper to taste
1/2 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus more for serving
1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar (optional)
Reserved pasta water as needed

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Instructions

Cook the pasta: Prepare pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water before draining.
Sauté: Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add garlic, cook until fragrant. Add cherry tomatoes, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper. Cook until tomatoes soften.
Combine: Add drained pasta to skillet. Mix in basil, Parmesan, and balsamic vinegar. Add reserved pasta water if needed.
Serve: Adjust seasoning, serve hot topped with extra Parmesan and basil.