This burst cherry tomato pasta is a delightful, fresh, and colorful dish. With just six ingredients—sweet, ripe cherry tomatoes, olive oil, garlic, and parmesan cheese—it’s an easy, summery recipe that’s full of flavor.
INGREDIENTS (SERVES 4)
- 2 cups cherry tomatoes (red or mixed colors)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup chicken or vegetable broth
- 1 pound pasta, cooked according to package directions
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Fresh basil leaves, torn
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving
INSTRUCTIONS
- Cook the Pasta: Cook the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of the pasta cooking water, then drain and set the pasta aside.
- Char the Tomatoes and Add Garlic: Heat a medium saucepan over high heat. Add the cherry tomatoes and cook, stirring occasionally, until they are charred and start to burst (about 5-7 minutes). Reduce the heat to medium, then add the minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute, until golden but not burnt.
- Simmer with Broth: Pour in the broth and bring to a simmer. Let the mixture cook for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the liquid reduces slightly and thickens to your desired consistency.
- Finish the Sauce: Drizzle in the olive oil, and toss in the fresh basil leaves. Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
- Combine Pasta and Sauce: Add the cooked pasta to the sauce, tossing to coat evenly. If the sauce is too thick, add the reserved pasta water a little at a time until it reaches your preferred consistency.
- Serve: Plate the pasta, then sprinkle generously with grated Parmesan cheese and more fresh basil.
NOTES
- Pasta Water: The reserved pasta water helps thicken the sauce and makes it adhere to the pasta better.
- Herbs: Try adding parsley or thyme for additional herbal flavor.
- Protein: Add grilled chicken or sautéed shrimp to turn the dish into a heartier meal.
Nutrition (per serving):
Calories: 414 kcal | Carbs: 57g | Protein: 10g | Fat: 15g | Saturated Fat: 2g | Sodium: 503mg | Potassium: 96mg | Fiber: 3g | Sugar: 2g | Vitamin A: 310 IU | Vitamin C: 2.9mg | Calcium: 18mg | Iron: 2.3mg
