Cherry Tomato Pasta
Indulge in the delightful simplicity of cherry tomato pasta, a dish that brings the essence of summer right to your plate. With juicy cherry tomatoes bursting with flavor, aromatic garlic, and al dente pasta, this recipe is not only quick to prepare but also a feast for the senses. Ideal for busy days or a cozy dinner, it pairs beautifully with a sprinkle of fresh basil and a drizzle of olive oil, making it a must-try for any pasta lover.
Ingredients
– 200g spaghetti or linguine
– 300g cherry tomatoes
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 4 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh basil leaves for garnish
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Servings and Cooking Time
This recipe serves 2 people. Preparation time is 10 minutes, and cooking time is approximately 15 minutes.
Nutritional Value
Per serving (1 person): Calories: 400, Protein: 10g, Fat: 15g, Carbohydrates: 60g, Fiber: 4g. This is a nutritious and satisfying meal that provides a good balance of macronutrients.
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
2. Add the spaghetti and cook according to package instructions until al dente.
3. While the pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
4. Add minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.
5. Add cherry tomatoes to the skillet and season with salt and pepper.
6. Cook tomatoes for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally until they burst.
7. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water and drain the spaghetti.
8. Add drained spaghetti to the skillet with tomatoes.
9. Toss the spaghetti and tomatoes together, adding reserved pasta water as needed.
10. Serve hot, garnished with fresh basil and optional Parmesan cheese.
Alternative Ingredients
You can substitute spaghetti with gluten-free pasta or zucchini noodles for a lighter option. Additionally, replace olive oil with avocado oil or omit cheese for a vegan version.
Serving and Pairings
Cherry tomato pasta pairs wonderfully with a crisp green salad, garlic bread, or a glass of white wine. For added protein, consider serving it with grilled chicken or shrimp.
Storage and Reheating
Store leftover pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of water to prevent sticking. This dish can be frozen, but it’s best enjoyed fresh.
Cooking Mistakes
- Overcooking the pasta can make it mushy.
- Not seasoning the water can lead to bland pasta.
- Skipping the reserved pasta water can result in a dry dish.
- Using old garlic can affect the flavor negatively.
- Not allowing the tomatoes to burst fully may leave them undercooked.
Helpful Tips
- Use fresh, ripe cherry tomatoes for the best flavor.
- Experiment with herbs like oregano or thyme for variety.
- Drizzle a bit of balsamic reduction for an extra layer of flavor.
- To save time, prep ingredients while the pasta is cooking.
FAQs
Can I use other types of pasta?
Yes, you can use any pasta shape you prefer, such as penne or fusilli. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly.
Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?
Absolutely! You can make a large batch and store it for quick meals throughout the week.
Can I add protein to this dish?
Definitely! Grilled chicken, shrimp, or even chickpeas can be excellent additions for extra protein.
What is the best way to store leftovers?
Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Reheat gently to maintain texture.
How can I enhance the flavor further?
Consider adding red pepper flakes for heat, or a squeeze of lemon juice for brightness.
Conclusion
Cherry tomato pasta is a delightful, easy-to-make dish that showcases the freshest ingredients. Perfect for a quick dinner or meal prep, it’s a versatile recipe that can be customized to your taste. Enjoy the burst of flavors in every bite!
Cherry Tomato Pasta
Ingredients
- 200 g spaghetti or linguine
- 300 g cherry tomatoes
- 3 cloves garlic minced
- 4 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil leaves for garnish
- Grated Parmesan cheese optional
Instructions
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
- Add the spaghetti and cook according to package instructions until al dente.
- While the pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.
- Add cherry tomatoes to the skillet and season with salt and pepper.
- Cook tomatoes for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally until they burst.
- Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water and drain the spaghetti.
- Add drained spaghetti to the skillet with tomatoes.
- Toss the spaghetti and tomatoes together, adding reserved pasta water as needed.
- Serve hot, garnished with fresh basil and optional Parmesan cheese.
