15-Minute Cherry Tomato Basil Pasta Recipe
Introduction
This 15-Minute Cherry Tomato Basil Pasta is a fresh and vibrant dish perfect for busy weeknights. With simple ingredients and a quick cooking time, it’s an effortless way to enjoy a flavorful, homemade meal.
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. Set the pasta aside.
- Step 2: In the same pot over medium heat, heat the olive oil. 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.
- Step 3: Stir in the chopped basil, salt, the cooked pasta, and the reserved pasta water. Toss everything together until well combined and heated through.
Tips & Variations
- Use fresh, ripe tomatoes for the best flavor. You can also add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a subtle kick.
- Substitute angel hair pasta with spaghetti or linguine if preferred.
- Add grated Parmesan cheese on top before serving for an extra savory touch.
Storage
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of water or olive oil to maintain moisture.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I use frozen tomatoes for this recipe?
Fresh tomatoes are recommended for the best texture and flavor, but if using frozen, thaw and drain excess liquid before cooking.
Is this dish suitable for meal prep?
Yes, it holds up well when refrigerated and reheated, making it a great option for quick lunches or dinners throughout the week.
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15-Minute Cherry Tomato Basil Pasta Recipe
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A quick and vibrant 15-minute Cherry Tomato Basil Pasta dish featuring angel hair spaghetti tossed with sautéed garlic, fresh cherry tomatoes, and fragrant basil. Perfect for a light, flavorful weeknight meal.
Ingredients
Pasta
- 1 (1-pound) package of angel hair spaghetti
Sauce
- ¼ cup olive oil
- 5 garlic cloves, minced
- 3 pints cherry or grape tomatoes, quartered
- 1 cup chopped fresh basil
- ½ teaspoon salt
Instructions
- Cook the pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the angel hair spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve ½ cup of the pasta cooking water before draining the pasta and setting it aside.
- Sauté garlic and tomatoes: In the same pot, heat ¼ cup of olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and quartered cherry 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.
- Combine and finish: Stir in the chopped fresh basil, ½ teaspoon of salt, the cooked pasta, and the reserved pasta water. Toss everything together until the pasta is evenly coated with the flavorful tomato and basil mixture. Serve immediately.
Notes
- Use fresh, ripe cherry tomatoes for the best flavor.
- Reserve pasta water contains starch that helps thicken the sauce and bind it to the pasta.
- You can add grated Parmesan cheese or red pepper flakes for extra flavor if desired.
- This dish is best enjoyed fresh and warm.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
Keywords: cherry tomato pasta, basil pasta, quick pasta recipe, 15-minute pasta, angel hair spaghetti, easy Italian dinner
