Name: Cherry Tomato Basil Pasta
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 12 oz dry pasta (linguine, spaghetti, or bucatini); 3 cups cherry tomatoes (red and yellow), halved; 1/2 cup fresh basil leaves, torn; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 2 tbsp olive oil; Salt, to taste; Black pepper, to taste; Optional: 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes; Optional: Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving

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Cherry Tomato Basil Pasta is a fresh and vibrant one-pot dish featuring sweet cherry tomatoes, aromatic basil, and al dente pasta tossed in a light garlic and olive oil sauce. It’s simple yet full of flavor, making it an ideal choice for a quick weeknight dinner.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This pasta brings together minimal ingredients with maximum taste. Juicy cherry tomatoes burst into a naturally sweet sauce while basil adds a fragrant finish. It’s quick to prepare, easy to clean up, and endlessly adaptable with seasonal additions. Ideal for both casual meals and elegant occasions.

ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
Dry pasta (such as linguine, spaghetti, or bucatini)
Cherry tomatoes (red and yellow, halved)
Fresh basil leaves
Garlic cloves, minced
Olive oil
Salt and black pepper
Optional: red pepper flakes, grated Parmesan cheese

directions

Cook the pasta in salted boiling water until al dente. Reserve ½ cup of pasta water, then drain.
In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add garlic and sauté for 1–2 minutes until fragrant.
Add the cherry tomatoes and cook for 5–7 minutes, gently pressing them to release their juices.
Toss in the cooked pasta and reserved water. Stir until well combined and the sauce slightly thickens.
Add fresh basil and season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes if using.
Serve hot with an optional sprinkle of Parmesan cheese.

Servings and timing

Serves 4. Preparation time is 10 minutes. Cooking time is 15 minutes. Total time: 25 minutes.

Variations

Add sautéed mushrooms, zucchini, or spinach for extra vegetables.
Include grilled chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas for added protein.
Use gluten-free pasta if preferred.
Stir in a spoonful of pesto for a richer basil flavor.

storage/reheating

Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat or in the microwave with a splash of water or olive oil to loosen the sauce.

FAQs

1. Can I use canned tomatoes instead of fresh cherry tomatoes?

Fresh cherry tomatoes are recommended for the best flavor, but canned cherry tomatoes can be used in a pinch.

2. What type of pasta works best?

Long pasta like spaghetti, linguine, or bucatini is ideal, but short shapes like penne or farfalle also work well.

3. Do I need to peel the tomatoes?

No, cherry tomatoes have thin skins that break down nicely during cooking.

4. Can I make this pasta ahead of time?

It’s best served fresh, but you can make it ahead and reheat with a splash of water or olive oil.

5. How do I keep the pasta from drying out?

Reserve some pasta water and stir it in when tossing everything together. This keeps the sauce silky.

6. Is it okay to serve this pasta cold?

Yes, it also works well as a pasta salad when chilled, especially in warmer months.

7. Can I make it vegan?

Yes, simply omit the cheese or use a plant-based alternative.

8. How do I make it spicier?

Add a pinch of red pepper flakes while sautéing the garlic for a gentle heat.

9. Can I add lemon zest?

Yes, a bit of lemon zest brightens the flavor and adds a refreshing note.

10. Will dried basil work?

Fresh basil is recommended, but if using dried, add it during cooking so it has time to release flavor.

Conclusion

Cherry Tomato Basil Pasta is a beautifully simple dish that relies on the natural sweetness of tomatoes and the brightness of basil to deliver flavor. With its minimal prep and satisfying taste, it’s a timeless recipe you’ll return to throughout the year.