Quick Cherry Tomato Pasta (Print Version)
# Ingredients:
→ Base Ingredients
01 -
8 ounces of your favorite spaghetti
02 -
2 pints fresh cherry tomatoes
03 -
3 cloves fresh garlic, minced
04 -
¼ cup good quality olive oil
→ Seasonings & Garnishes
05 -
½ teaspoon sea salt
06 -
½ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
07 -
½ cup fresh basil leaves, roughly chopped, plus extra for serving
08 -
¼ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese, plus extra for serving
# Instructions:
01 -
Start by bringing a large pot of heavily salted water to a rolling boil. Cook your spaghetti until perfectly al dente according to package instructions. Before draining, remember to save ½ cup of the starchy pasta water - it's like liquid gold for our sauce!
02 -
While the pasta works its magic, heat your olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Toss in those cherry tomatoes and let them dance around until they start to soften, about 5 minutes. Add your minced garlic, salt, and red pepper flakes, cooking until the kitchen fills with that incredible aroma, about a minute more. Here comes the fun part - use a potato masher or the back of a spoon to gently squish the tomatoes, releasing their sweet juices. Let everything simmer and get cozy for another 5 minutes until you've got a gorgeous sauce.
03 -
Add your perfectly cooked pasta right into the skillet with that beautiful tomato sauce. Throw in the fresh basil and Parmesan, then toss everything together like you're conducting an orchestra. Add splashes of that reserved pasta water until the sauce reaches your ideal consistency - silky and luxurious.
04 -
Plate up your masterpiece while it's still hot, finishing each serving with an extra shower of fresh basil and a generous sprinkle of Parmesan cheese.
# Notes:
01 -
This pasta can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for 4-5 days. The sauce can be frozen for up to 3 months.
02 -
Feel free to make the sauce 2-3 days ahead - it'll only get better!
03 -
While this recipe shines with cherry tomatoes, you can swap in grape tomatoes or even quartered regular tomatoes in a pinch.