This Easy Cherry Tomato Basil Pasta brings together juicy tomatoes and fresh basil for a burst of flavor! It’s a quick dish that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or a cozy weekend meal.
There’s something magical about how the tomatoes burst open and mix with the pasta—it’s like a little party on your plate! I love making this when I want something tasty without the fuss.
Using just a few ingredients makes it simple, and it pairs wonderfully with a sprinkle of cheese. I often add a side salad to make it a complete meal. You’ll want to make this again and again!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pasta: I recommend using shell pasta for this dish because its shape holds the sauce nicely. However, you can substitute it with penne, fusilli, or even gluten-free pasta if needed. Just adjust the cooking time as per the package instructions.
Cherry Tomatoes: Fresh cherry tomatoes are perfect here since they burst with flavor. If they’re not in season, you could use grape tomatoes or even canned diced tomatoes for convenience. The flavor will be different but still tasty!
Garlic: Fresh garlic adds great flavor. If you don’t have fresh, you can use garlic powder (1/8 teaspoon per clove). I personally love using roasted garlic for a sweeter, milder taste.
Basil: Fresh basil is key! If you’re out or can’t find it, you could use dried basil, but use a little less (about 1 teaspoon), as dried herbs are more concentrated in flavor.
Fresh Mozzarella: If you can’t find mozzarella balls, you can substitute with cubed mozzarella or feta cheese, though the taste will be different. Some people also enjoy using burrata for a creamier texture!
How Do I Get the Perfect Pasta Texture?
Cooking pasta to the right texture is crucial for this dish. Aim for al dente, which means “to the tooth” in Italian. It should be firm when bitten but cooked through. Here’s how to get it right:
- Start with plenty of salted water; it should taste like the sea!
- Follow the package instructions for cooking time. Taste a piece one minute before the end to check for doneness.
- Reserve some pasta water before draining—it helps adjust the sauce consistency later if needed.
By keeping an eye on the pasta and tasting it, you’ll end up with a perfect texture that ties the dish together nicely!
Easy Cherry Tomato Basil Pasta
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Pasta:
- 8 oz pasta shells or your favorite short pasta
Vegetables:
- 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
Condiments:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil, plus extra for drizzling
Herbs:
- 1 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped or torn
Dairy:
- 1/2 cup fresh mozzarella balls (bocconcini)
- 1/4 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
Seasoning:
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious dish takes only about 20 minutes from start to finish! You’ll spend around 10 minutes cooking the pasta and about 10 minutes prepping the sauce and combining everything. Perfect for a quick dinner on a busy weeknight!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add your pasta shells and cook according to the package instructions until al dente, which usually takes about 8-10 minutes. Drain the pasta when it’s ready, but remember to save about 1/2 cup of the cooking water—this can help soften the sauce later!
2. Prepare the Garlic and Tomatoes:
While your pasta is cooking, grab a large skillet and heat the olive oil over medium heat. Once it’s hot, add the minced garlic. Sauté it for about 30 seconds—just until it’s fragrant but not browned! Now, toss in the halved cherry tomatoes, sprinkle with salt and pepper, and let them cook for about 5-7 minutes. You’ll know they’re ready when they soften and start to release their juicy goodness.
3. Combine Everything Together:
Now it’s time to add the cooked pasta to the skillet with the tomatoes. Gently toss everything together until the pasta is well coated with the tomato mixture. If it seems a bit too dry, don’t worry; just pour in a splash of that reserved pasta water until you reach your desired consistency!
4. Add Freshness and Flavor:
Take the skillet off the heat, and stir in the fresh basil leaves and red pepper flakes if you like a little kick. Give it a good mix to spread that fresh basil flavor throughout!
5. Serve It Up:
Dish the pasta out onto serving plates. Top with those delightful fresh mozzarella balls and sprinkle with freshly grated Parmesan cheese. Finish with a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil and additional basil if desired. Serve warm and enjoy!
This vibrant pasta combines the sweetness of cherry tomatoes with the freshness of basil and the creamy bursts of mozzarella for a simple, delicious meal you can whip up in no time!
FAQ for Easy Cherry Tomato Basil Pasta
Can I Use Other Types of Pasta?
Absolutely! While shells are great, you can substitute them with any short pasta like penne, fusilli, or even gluten-free options. Just adjust the cooking time according to the package instructions for best results!
Can I Make This Pasta Vegan?
Yes! To make this dish vegan, simply omit the mozzarella and Parmesan cheese, or substitute with dairy-free cheese options. The dish will still be vibrant and flavorful with the tomatoes and basil!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of water or olive oil to help revive the sauce.
Can I Add More Veggies to This Dish?
Definitely! Feel free to add in other vegetables like spinach, bell peppers, or zucchini for extra nutrition and flavors. Just sauté them along with the garlic and tomatoes until they’re tender!
