Cherry Tomato Pasta with Basil

Name: Cherry Tomato Pasta with Basil
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 300g spaghetti or your favorite pasta; 500g cherry tomatoes, halved; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, torn; 3 tablespoons olive oil; Salt and pepper to taste; Parmesan cheese, grated (optional)

Highlighted under: Simple Speedy Plates

I absolutely love making Cherry Tomato Pasta with Basil during the summer months when tomatoes are at their peak. This dish is not only simple but takes advantage of fresh, vibrant flavors. The combination of juicy cherry tomatoes, fragrant basil, and al dente pasta creates a light yet satisfying meal that can be thrown together in under 30 minutes. Whether I’m cooking for myself or friends, this recipe never fails to impress. Plus, it’s a great way to showcase the deliciousness of seasonal produce!

Created by

Ella

Last updated on 2026-02-04T18:34:28.029Z

Whenever I make Cherry Tomato Pasta with Basil, I’m always reminded of sun-soaked summer days. The burst of sweetness from the cherry tomatoes perfectly complements the aromatic basil. I’ve learned that using high-quality olive oil makes a significant difference in elevating the flavors.

This recipe is incredibly forgiving. You can easily adapt it based on what's in your pantry. I once substituted the pasta with zucchini noodles, and it turned out just as delicious! It’s a testament to the versatility of the ingredients.

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Fresh, vibrant flavors that burst with every bite
Quick and easy to prepare, perfect for weeknights
Can easily be customized with seasonal vegetables

Maximizing Tomato Flavor

Choosing the right cherry tomatoes is crucial for enhancing the flavor of this dish. Look for tomatoes that feel slightly soft when you squeeze them, indicating ripeness. During summer, you might find heirloom varieties that offer an array of flavors—from sweet to tangy. I love to mix different colors and sizes, as this adds visual appeal and diverse tastes to the pasta.

When sautéing the tomatoes, be sure to let them cook long enough to develop a rich, glossy sauce. The goal is to create a saucy consistency without overcooking, which can lead to a mushy texture. Cook them until they start to burst and soften, usually around 5-7 minutes on medium heat. This allows the natural sugars to caramelize slightly, giving the dish a sweet undertone.

Customizing Your Dish

This Cherry Tomato Pasta can easily adapt to different seasonal vegetables. Adding zucchini or bell peppers can elevate the dish with extra color and crunch. Simply sauté your chosen veggies in the olive oil alongside the garlic until just tender, then proceed with adding the tomatoes. Remember to adjust the cooking time depending on the vegetables you choose, as firmer veggies like carrots will take longer than softer ones like zucchini.

For a heartier meal, consider including protein. Grilled chicken or shrimp pairs well, providing additional texture and flavor. If you're vegetarian, chickpeas or cannellini beans can add protein while keeping the dish light and healthy. Just toss them in when you add the pasta to ensure everything heats through without losing the fresh qualities of the other ingredients.

Ingredients

Gather your ingredients to make this delightful pasta dish.

Ingredients

300g spaghetti or your favorite pasta
500g cherry tomatoes, halved
2 cloves garlic, minced
1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, torn
3 tablespoons olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste
Parmesan cheese, grated (optional)

Make sure to use the freshest ingredients for the best flavor.

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create your delicious Cherry Tomato Pasta.

Cook the Pasta

In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil and cook the spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup of the pasta water before draining.

Sauté the Garlic and Tomatoes

In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant. Then, add the halved cherry tomatoes and cook for about 5-7 minutes, until they soften and start to burst.

Combine with Pasta

Add the drained spaghetti to the skillet with the tomatoes. Toss everything together, adding reserved pasta water as necessary to create a light sauce.

Finish with Basil and Serve

Remove from heat, stir in the torn basil leaves, and season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve immediately, garnished with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.

Enjoy your delicious cherry tomato pasta with a sprinkle of extra basil on top!

Pro Tips

For an added kick, try adding red pepper flakes when sautéing the garlic. Also, feel free to use any seasonal vegetables you have on hand for a variation.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

If you're planning to make this dish ahead of time, cook the pasta just until al dente, as it will continue to cook when you reheat. Store the components separately in airtight containers. The tomatoes can be sautéed and kept in the fridge for up to 3 days, while the pasta can last about the same time when stored correctly. This way, you can simply combine them with fresh basil and Parmesan when ready to serve.

For freezing, I recommend avoiding freezing the assembled dish as the texture of the tomatoes may become mushy. Instead, freeze the sautéed tomatoes in ice cube trays for easy single-serving portions, allowing you to add fresh flavor to future meals without hassle. Just thaw and warm them on the stove, then mix with freshly cooked pasta.

Serving Suggestions

To elevate your Cherry Tomato Pasta, consider pairing it with a simple arugula salad dressed with lemon and olive oil. The peppery greens balance out the sweetness of the tomatoes nicely. Additionally, a glass of chilled white wine or sparkling water with lemon slices complements the lightness of the dish perfectly.

Another great serving idea is to create a pasta bar! Set out bowls of different toppings like crushed red pepper, toasted pine nuts, and various cheeses. This not only invites creativity but makes it a fun way for guests to personalize their meal. Plus, it’s a perfect way to use up any leftover ingredients from your kitchen.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use other types of tomatoes?

Yes, other small varieties like grape or roma tomatoes work well. Just cut them into similar sizes.

→ How can I make this recipe vegetarian?

This recipe is already vegetarian! Just ensure any cheese added is also vegetarian.

→ Can I prepare this in advance?

It's best served fresh, but you can prepare the sauce ahead of time and then toss it with the pasta when ready to serve.

→ What can I pair this pasta with?

It pairs well with a light salad or grilled vegetables for a complete meal.