Cherry Tomato Pasta
If you’re looking for a quick and vibrant dish, cherry tomato pasta is the answer. This delightful recipe showcases the natural sweetness of cherry tomatoes, balanced with garlic, olive oil, and fresh herbs. Ideal for weeknight dinners or special gatherings, this pasta dish comes together in no time, allowing you to enjoy a gourmet meal without the hassle. Let’s dive into the details!
Ingredients
- 200g spaghetti
- 300g cherry tomatoes
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil, for garnish
- Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Servings and Cooking Time
This recipe makes 2 servings. Preparation time is about 10 minutes, with a cooking time of 15 minutes.
Nutritional Value
Per serving (1 plate):
– Calories: 450
– Protein: 12g
– Carbohydrates: 60g
– Fat: 18g
– Fiber: 3g
This nutritional information is based on one serving.
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
- Boil a large pot of salted water and cook the spaghetti according to package instructions.
- While the pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add minced garlic to the skillet and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute.
- Add the cherry tomatoes whole to the skillet and cook until they burst, about 5-7 minutes.
- Season the tomatoes with salt and pepper to taste.
- Once the pasta is al dente, reserve ½ cup of pasta water, then drain the pasta.
- Add the drained spaghetti to the skillet with the tomatoes.
- Toss the pasta with the tomatoes, adding reserved pasta water as needed for a silky sauce.
- Remove from heat and stir in fresh basil and Parmesan cheese if using.
- Plate the pasta and garnish with additional cherry tomatoes and basil.
Alternative Ingredients
You can easily substitute spaghetti with any pasta of your choice, such as penne or fusilli. For a gluten-free option, use gluten-free pasta. Additionally, use any fresh herbs available, like parsley or oregano, instead of basil.
Serving and Pairings
Cherry tomato pasta pairs beautifully with a side salad, garlic bread, or a glass of white wine. For added protein, consider serving it with grilled chicken or shrimp.
Storage and Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of olive oil or water to prevent sticking. This dish is not recommended for freezing, as the texture may change.
Cooking Mistakes
- Overcooking the pasta can lead to a mushy texture; always cook until al dente.
- Using too much salt can overpower the dish; season gradually.
- Not reserving pasta water may result in a dry sauce; always reserve some.
- Burning the garlic can create a bitter taste; sauté it gently.
- Using unripe tomatoes may affect the flavor; opt for ripe, sweet tomatoes.
Helpful Tips
- For a richer flavor, add a splash of balsamic vinegar to the tomatoes.
- Experiment with different cheeses like feta or goat cheese for variety.
- For spice lovers, add red pepper flakes when sautéing garlic.
- Use fresh tomatoes in season for the best taste.
FAQs
Can I use canned tomatoes instead of fresh?
Yes, you can use canned cherry tomatoes, but fresh ones offer a brighter flavor and texture. Drain the canned tomatoes before adding them to the pan.
Is this dish suitable for vegans?
Yes, this recipe can be made vegan by omitting the Parmesan cheese and ensuring that the pasta is egg-free.
How can I make this dish spicier?
To add heat, include red pepper flakes when cooking the garlic or toss in some sliced fresh chili peppers along with the tomatoes.
Can I add protein to this pasta?
Absolutely! Grilled chicken, shrimp, or tofu are excellent additions that complement the flavors well.
What should I do if I have leftover pasta?
Leftover pasta can be stored in the fridge and reheated as instructed. Consider adding fresh ingredients like herbs or cheese to refresh the dish.
Conclusion
Cherry tomato pasta is a delightful and versatile dish that celebrates fresh ingredients. Perfect for any occasion, this recipe is sure to impress with its vibrant flavors and ease of preparation. Enjoy this comforting meal and make it a staple in your culinary repertoire!
Cherry Tomato Pasta
Ingredients
- 200 g spaghetti
- 300 g cherry tomatoes
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil for garnish
- Grated Parmesan cheese optional
Instructions
- Boil a large pot of salted water and cook the spaghetti according to package instructions.
- While the pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add minced garlic to the skillet and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute.
- Add the cherry tomatoes whole to the skillet and cook until they burst, about 5-7 minutes.
- Season the tomatoes with salt and pepper to taste.
- Once the pasta is al dente, reserve ½ cup of pasta water, then drain the pasta.
- Add the drained spaghetti to the skillet with the tomatoes.
- Toss the pasta with the tomatoes, adding reserved pasta water as needed for a silky sauce.
- Remove from heat and stir in fresh basil and Parmesan cheese if using.
- Plate the pasta and garnish with additional cherry tomatoes and basil.
