Quick Tomato Basil Pasta
Quick Tomato Basil Pasta is a vibrant and flavorful dish that combines fresh cherry tomatoes, aromatic basil, and high-quality pasta, all prepared in under twenty minutes. This recipe emphasizes the use of simple, high-quality ingredients to create a comforting yet healthy meal.
Ingredients
- 12 oz Dried Pasta (Spaghetti or Linguine)
- 2 pints Cherry or Grape Tomatoes
- 3 tablespoons Extra Virgin Olive Oil
- 4 cloves Fresh Garlic
- 1 cup Fresh Basil Leaves
- 1/2 teaspoon Red Pepper Flakes
- 1/2 cup Parmesan Cheese
- Kosher Salt and Black Pepper to taste
- 1/2 cup Reserved Pasta Water
Instructions
- Boil the Water: Fill a large pot with water and add a generous amount of salt. Bring it to a rolling boil.
- Cook the Pasta: Add your pasta to the boiling water and cook according to package instructions until al dente.
- Sauté the Garlic: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add sliced garlic and red pepper flakes, sauté for about 1 minute.
- Burst the Tomatoes: Increase heat to medium-high, add cherry tomatoes, season with salt and pepper, and sauté until softened and bursting.
- Save the Water: Before draining the pasta, ladle out about half a cup of starchy pasta water.
- Combine: Drain the pasta and add it to the skillet with tomatoes. Pour in reserved pasta water and toss together.
- Finish with Herbs and Cheese: Remove from heat, stir in fresh basil and grated Parmesan cheese, and toss until combined.
- Serve: Plate the Quick Tomato Basil Pasta immediately while hot.
Notes
Use high-quality bronze-cut pasta for better sauce adhesion. Adjust red pepper flakes based on heat preference. Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to three days.