Description
Sautéed cherry tomatoes pasta with garlic and basil is a simple Italian-inspired dish featuring juicy cherry tomatoes, fragrant garlic, fresh basil, and Parmesan cheese, all tossed with perfectly cooked al dente pasta. This quick and flavorful dinner is made with a handful of wholesome ingredients and comes together in just 20 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknight meals or a light summer dinner.
Ingredients
Pasta
- 12 ounces spaghetti or linguine
Sauce
- 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
- 4 garlic cloves, thinly sliced
- 3 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes, optional
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 cup reserved pasta water
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1/3 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/3 cup fresh basil leaves, torn
- 1 teaspoon fresh lemon juice, optional
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the spaghetti or linguine and cook according to package directions until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup of the pasta water, then drain the pasta and set aside.
- Sauté Garlic: While the pasta cooks, heat the extra-virgin olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the thinly sliced garlic and cook for 30 to 60 seconds until fragrant but not browned, ensuring the garlic does not become bitter.
- Cook Cherry Tomatoes: Add the halved cherry tomatoes to the skillet along with Italian seasoning, red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and black pepper. Cook for 6 to 8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the tomatoes soften and start releasing their juices, creating a flavorful base.
- Create the Sauce: Stir in the butter and reserved pasta water, mixing well to form a light and glossy sauce that will coat the pasta beautifully.
- Toss Pasta: Add the drained pasta directly into the skillet and toss everything together until the pasta is evenly coated with the tomato-garlic sauce.
- Finish and Serve: Remove the skillet from heat and stir in the grated Parmesan cheese and torn fresh basil leaves. Add a splash of fresh lemon juice if desired, and adjust seasoning to taste. Serve immediately with extra Parmesan and fresh basil garnish.
Notes
- Use ripe, sweet cherry tomatoes for the best flavor and natural sweetness.
- Be careful not to brown the garlic too much as it can turn bitter and overpower the dish.
- Add grilled chicken, shrimp, or white beans to boost protein content and make it more filling.
- For a vegan version, substitute the butter with olive oil and use vegan Parmesan or omit the cheese entirely.
- Store any leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheat gently on the stovetop or microwave before serving.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Dinner, Main Course, Pasta, Vegetarian, Quick Meals
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
