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One-Pot Cherry Tomato Basil Pasta

One-Pot Cherry Tomato Basil Pasta is a quick, flavorful meal that brings together juicy cherry tomatoes, fresh basil, and garlic in a light olive oil sauce — all cooked in one pot for minimal cleanup.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 12 oz dry pasta (spaghetti, linguine, or bucatini)
  • 3 cups cherry tomatoes (halved)
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 1/2 cup fresh basil leaves, torn
  • Salt, to taste
  • Black pepper, to taste
  • 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
  • Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving (optional)
  • 4 cups water or vegetable broth

Instructions

  1. In a large pot or deep skillet, combine pasta, cherry tomatoes, garlic, olive oil, salt, pepper, and water or broth.
  2. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
  3. Cook for 10–12 minutes, or until pasta is al dente and the liquid has mostly evaporated into a light sauce.
  4. Stir in the fresh basil and red pepper flakes if using.
  5. Serve immediately with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.

Notes

  • Use vegetable broth instead of water for extra flavor.
  • Add lemon zest or a spoonful of pesto for a flavor boost.
  • Make it vegan by omitting cheese or using a dairy-free alternative.
  • Works great with gluten-free pasta—just watch the cook time.
  • Store leftovers in the fridge for up to 3 days and reheat with a splash of water or oil.

Nutrition

Keywords: one-pot pasta, cherry tomato pasta, basil, quick dinner, vegetarian, easy pasta