Description
Tomato Basil Pasta is a simple yet flavorful Italian-inspired dish featuring al dente pasta tossed with a garlicky cherry tomato sauce and fresh basil. This quick and easy recipe is perfect for a light, satisfying meal that brings the vibrant flavors of summer tomatoes and aromatic herbs to your plate in just 25 minutes.
Ingredients
Scale
Pasta
- 200g pasta
Vegetables & Herbs
- 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup fresh basil, chopped
Other Ingredients
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- Salt to taste
- Black pepper to taste
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: Boil a large pot of salted water and cook the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Heat Olive Oil: Place a pan over medium heat and add the olive oil, warming it gently.
- Sauté Garlic: Add the minced garlic to the heated oil and sauté briefly until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.
- Cook Cherry Tomatoes: Add the halved cherry tomatoes to the pan and cook them until they soften and start to release their juices, about 5-7 minutes.
- Toss Pasta: Add the cooked pasta to the pan with the tomato mixture and stir well to coat all the strands evenly with the flavorful sauce.
- Add Basil and Seasonings: Stir in the fresh chopped basil, then season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste, mixing everything thoroughly.
- Serve Warm: Transfer the tomato basil pasta to plates and serve immediately for the best flavor and texture.
Notes
- Use fresh cherry tomatoes for optimal sweetness and flavor.
- Reserve some pasta water before draining to adjust sauce consistency if needed.
- For added protein, consider topping with grated Parmesan or a handful of toasted pine nuts.
- Fresh basil is key; add just before serving to preserve its aroma and brightness.
- This dish can be paired well with a light salad or garlic bread.
