This Cherry Tomato and Basil Pasta is a fresh and tasty dish. With juicy tomatoes and fragrant basil, it feels like summer on your plate. Perfect for a quick dinner!
I love how easy this meal is to make—just toss everything together and enjoy! Perfect for when you don’t want to spend hours in the kitchen. Plus, it’s colorful and fun! 🍅🌿
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pasta: Any pasta shape works here, but I love fusilli for its ability to hold onto the sauce. If you want a gluten-free option, try brown rice pasta or quinoa pasta. Both have great textures!
Cherry Tomatoes: Use ripe, juicy cherry tomatoes for the sweetest flavor. If they’re out of season, you can substitute with canned diced tomatoes or grape tomatoes. They will still provide good taste.
Fresh Basil: Fresh basil adds a bright flavor. If you want a substitute, fresh parsley will work, though it won’t be as aromatic. Dried basil can be used in a pinch, but use less since it’s more concentrated.
Olive Oil: Extra virgin olive oil is my go-to for that robust flavor. Avocado oil can be a nice alternative if you want a mild taste. Just avoid using a cheaper oil, as it can affect the overall flavor.
Cheese: Fresh mozzarella adds creaminess, but if it’s hard to find, you can use shredded mozzarella. For a dairy-free version, look for nut-based mozzarella-style products!
How Do I Ensure My Pasta is Cooked Perfectly?
Cooking pasta correctly is crucial for this dish. Always start with a big pot of boiling water and plenty of salt. This adds flavor right into the pasta. Remember to stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
- Check the pasta package for cooking time; usually around 8-12 minutes for al dente.
- Set a timer to avoid overcooking.
- When it’s time, taste a piece to see if it’s firm but not hard. That’s al dente!
- Don’t forget to reserve some pasta water. This starchy water is great for adjusting the sauce later.
How to Make Cherry Tomato And Basil Pasta
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For The Pasta:
- 12 oz pasta (any shape, such as fusilli or rigatoni)
For The Sauce:
- 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
- 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
For The Toppings:
- 1/2 cup fresh mozzarella balls (bocconcini), halved
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh basil leaves, for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful dish takes about 25 minutes from start to finish. You’ll spend roughly 10 minutes cooking the pasta and another 15 minutes preparing the sauce and combining everything. Perfect for a quick and tasty meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Begin by cooking the pasta in a large pot of salted water according to the directions on the package. Aim for al dente—it should still have a bit of bite to it! Once it’s cooked, drain the pasta and save about half a cup of the cooking water for later.
2. Sauté the Garlic:
While the pasta cooks, grab a large skillet and heat the olive oil over medium heat. Once hot, add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes if you’re using them. Sauté for about 1 minute until it smells wonderfully fragrant, but don’t let the garlic brown!
3. Cook the Cherry Tomatoes:
Time to add the halved cherry tomatoes to the skillet! Cook them for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally. You want them to soften and release their juicy goodness into the pan.
4. Combine Pasta and Basil:
Now, stir in the chopped basil and your cooked pasta. Mix everything well! If the pasta looks a little dry, just add a splash of that reserved pasta water to make a lovely sauce.
5. Add Cheese and Season:
Gently fold in the fresh mozzarella balls and let them warm up in the heat of the pasta. After that, season your creation with salt and pepper to taste. Don’t be shy—feel free to adjust the seasoning to your liking!
6. Serve and Garnish:
Dish up your delicious Cherry Tomato and Basil Pasta onto plates. Top each serving with grated Parmesan cheese and a few fresh basil leaves for a beautiful and tasty finish. Enjoy your amazing meal!
Can I Use Dried Basil Instead of Fresh Basil?
While fresh basil is preferred for its vibrant flavor, you can use dried basil in a pinch! Use about 1 tablespoon of dried basil to substitute for the fresh. Be sure to add it along with the garlic to help release its flavors!
What Pasta Shapes Work Best for This Dish?
This recipe works well with many pasta shapes! Fusilli, rigatoni, and farfalle are great choices as their shapes hold the sauce and tomatoes nicely. Feel free to use what you have on hand!
How Can I Make This Recipe Vegan?
To make this dish vegan, simply omit the mozzarella and Parmesan cheese or substitute with vegan cheese options. You can also enhance the flavor with nutritional yeast, which adds a cheesy taste!
Can I Store Leftover Pasta?
Absolutely! Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of olive oil or water to keep it juicy.
