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Pasta with Cherry Tomatoes

This Pasta with Cherry Tomatoes is a fresh and flavorful Italian pasta dish made with sweet roasted cherry tomatoes, garlic, basil, Parmesan cheese, and olive oil. It's a simple yet delicious meal that's perfect for busy weeknights or summer dinners.
Print Recipe
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 34 minutes
Servings: 4
Course: pasta
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 445
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 12 ounces (340 g) spaghetti, linguine, or penne
  • 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
  • 3 cloves garlic, thinly sliced
  • 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
  • ½ teaspoon kosher salt
  • ¼ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
  • ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes
  • ¼ cup reserved pasta water
  • ½ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
  • ¼ cup fresh basil leaves, torn
  • 1 tablespoon unsalted butter

Equipment

  • 1 Large pot
  • 1 Colander
  • 1 Large Skillet
  • 1 Wooden spoon or silicone spatula
  • 1 Chef's knife
  • 1 Cutting Board
  • 1 Set measuring cups
  • 1 Set measuring spoons
  • 1 Cheese Grater
  • 1 Pasta tongs

Method
 

  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
  2. Cook the pasta according to the package directions until al dente.
  3. Reserve ¼ cup of the pasta water, then drain the pasta.
  4. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
  5. Add the sliced garlic and cook for 30–60 seconds until fragrant.
  6. Add the cherry tomatoes, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes. Cook for 8–10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the tomatoes soften and release their juices.
  7. Stir in the butter, if using, and add the reserved pasta water.
  8. Add the cooked pasta and toss until evenly coated with the sauce.
  9. Stir in the Parmesan cheese and fresh basil until well combined.
  10. Remove from the heat and let the pasta rest for 5 minutes so the sauce coats the pasta evenly.
  11. Garnish with extra Parmesan cheese and basil before serving.

Notes

  • Use ripe, sweet cherry tomatoes for the best flavor.
  • Reserve pasta water to create a silky, glossy sauce.
  • Add fresh mozzarella, grilled chicken, or shrimp for a heartier meal.
  • Finish with a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil before serving.
  • Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.