Ingredients
– 8 ounces of pasta (spaghetti or linguine recommended)
– 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
– 3 tablespoons olive oil
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Freshly grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
– Balsamic glaze for drizzling (optional)
Instructions
Making Basil Pasta with Cherry Tomatoes involves a straightforward approach. Follow these steps for a delicious meal:
1. Cook the Pasta: In a large pot, boil salted water and cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve ½ cup of pasta water, then drain the pasta.
2. Sauté Garlic: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant but not browned.
3. Add Cherry Tomatoes: Lower the heat slightly and add the halved cherry tomatoes to the skillet. Cook for about 5-7 minutes until they soften and release their juices.
4. Combine Pasta and Tomatoes: Add the drained pasta to the skillet, tossing with the tomatoes. Pour in a bit of the reserved pasta water to help create a sauce.
5. Incorporate Basil: Stir in the chopped basil, mixing everything until the pasta is evenly coated.
6. Season: Add salt and pepper to taste. If you prefer a richer flavor, incorporate more olive oil or additional reserved pasta water.
7. Garnish and Serve: Plate the pasta and top it with freshly grated Parmesan cheese and a drizzle of balsamic glaze if desired.
Enjoy your deliciously vibrant Basil Pasta with Cherry Tomatoes!
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15-20 minutes
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4
- Calories: 350 kcal
- Fat: 10g
- Protein: 12g