Indulge in a taste of Italy with our vibrant Cherry Tomato Garlic Pasta, a dish that bursts with flavor and freshness! This quick and easy recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or a delightful weekend treat, taking just 20 minutes from prep to plate. Imagine twirling perfectly cooked spaghetti around your fork, enveloped in a luscious sauce made from juicy cherry tomatoes and aromatic garlic. With just a handful of ingredients, you can create a culinary masterpiece that will impress your family and friends. Ready to elevate your pasta game? Let’s dive into this delicious recipe that promises to be a crowd-pleaser!
Prep Time: 5 mins
Cook Time: 15 mins
Total Time: 20 mins
Cuisine: Italian
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 8 oz spaghetti
- 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil for garnish
Instructions
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil over high heat. Add the spaghetti and cook according to package instructions until al dente, typically 8-10 minutes.
- While the pasta is cooking, prepare the cherry tomatoes by washing and carefully cutting them in half. Peel and finely mince the garlic cloves.
- In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant, being careful not to brown or burn the garlic.
- Add the halved cherry tomatoes to the skillet with the garlic. Cook for 3-4 minutes, gently pressing some tomatoes to release their juices and create a light sauce.
- When the pasta is cooked, reserve 1/2 cup of pasta cooking water, then drain the spaghetti in a colander.
- Transfer the hot pasta directly into the skillet with the tomatoes and garlic. Toss everything together, adding a splash of reserved pasta water if needed to help create a smooth sauce.
- Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Mix thoroughly to ensure even distribution of flavors.
- Remove from heat and garnish with fresh basil leaves, torn or chopped. Serve immediately while hot.
Tips
- Choose the Right Pasta: While spaghetti works beautifully, feel free to experiment with other pasta types like penne or fusilli for a different texture.
- Quality Ingredients Matter: Use high-quality olive oil and fresh cherry tomatoes for the best flavor. The freshness of your ingredients can elevate this simple dish to new heights.
- Don’t Overcook the Garlic: Sauté the garlic just until fragrant to avoid a bitter taste. Keep an eye on it, as it can burn quickly!
- Reserve Pasta Water: The starchy pasta water is a secret weapon for creating a silky sauce. Add it gradually to achieve your desired consistency.
- Garnish Generously: Fresh basil adds a burst of flavor and color. Don’t skimp on it—use plenty of leaves to enhance your dish!
- Add Protein: For a heartier meal, consider adding grilled chicken, shrimp, or even chickpeas for a vegetarian option.
- Serve Immediately: This dish is best enjoyed fresh and hot, so serve it right away to savor the vibrant flavors at their peak.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 350kcal
Carbohydrates: 45g
Protein: 10g
Fat: 16g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 0mg
