Pin This Cherry Tomato and Basil Pasta is my favorite weeknight dinner for when I want something vibrant and comforting without spending hours in the kitchen. Sweet cherry tomatoes meld with fragrant basil and tender spaghetti for a meal that tastes just like summer in Italy. Everything comes together in just one pan for minimal cleanup and maximum flavor.
The first time I made this was during an early tomato harvest. Now I return to it every June when my basil is thriving and I need a dinner that delights in simplicity. My family never gets tired of this one and even the pickiest eaters ask for seconds.
Ingredients
- Pasta: Choose a good quality spaghetti or linguine with some texture to help the light tomato sauce cling to each strand
- Cherry tomatoes: Pick firm yet ripe cherry tomatoes for the juiciest flavor Look for vibrant colors and glossy skins without wrinkling
- Garlic: Use fresh cloves and slice them thin so they gently perfume the oil without overpowering the dish
- Fresh basil: Tear by hand to avoid bruising and choose fragrant bright green leaves for the most aromatic results
- Red onion optional: Adds a mild sweetness and deeper flavor If you want a mellower onion bite choose a smaller or milder variety
- Extra virgin olive oil: Select a robust fruity oil because the flavor is key here
- Sea salt and black pepper: Choose sea salt for a cleaner finish and grind pepper fresh for maximum aroma
- Red pepper flakes optional: Just a pinch heightens the tomato sweetness and brings subtle background heat
- Parmesan or Pecorino Romano cheese optional: Look for real Parmigiano Reggiano or Pecorino with a bold savory punch
- Extra basil leaves for garnish: Adds color and a final touch of freshness use the smallest leaves for prettiest results
Instructions
- Boil the Pasta:
- Bring a large pot of well salted water to a full rolling boil Add your spaghetti or linguine and stir well so the strands do not stick Cook until just al dente tasting a noodle to check the doneness before draining Reserve about half a cup of the cooking water before draining in case you need to loosen your sauce
- Sauté the Aromatics:
- While the pasta is cooking heat the olive oil in a wide skillet over medium heat Add sliced garlic and red onion if using Stir constantly for up to two minutes just until the garlic softens and gets fragrant without taking on brown color
- Soften the Tomatoes:
- Add the halved cherry tomatoes directly to the skillet with the garlic Season with sea salt black pepper and a small pinch of red pepper flakes if you like Cook on medium heat stirring every couple minutes until the tomatoes slump and release juice creating a quick sauce This should take about six to eight minutes
- Combine Pasta and Sauce:
- Tip the drained pasta into the skillet with the tomato mixture Start tossing everything together with tongs or two forks adding a splash of the reserved pasta water as needed so the sauce lightly coats each strand The heat will help the pasta soak up the freshness of the tomatoes
- Add the Basil:
- Turn off the heat and scatter torn basil leaves over the pasta Gently mix so the basil wilts into the sauce but does not cook too much preserving its flavor and vivid color
- Finish and Serve:
- Dish up the pasta immediately Garnish with freshly grated Parmesan or Pecorino if desired and an extra scatter of basil leaves for an herby finish Serve hot or at room temperature
Pin To me basil is the absolute star I love walking out to my garden and picking it fresh minutes before dinner It always reminds me of my grandmother who would insist on tearing the leaves gently by hand just like in this recipe Every bite takes me back to her lively summer kitchen
Storage Tips
Store leftover pasta in a sealed container in the fridge for up to three days The flavors deepen overnight making a delicious next day lunch Reheat gently with a splash of water or in the microwave covered to keep it moist Avoid freezing as the tomatoes and basil can turn mushy
Ingredient Substitutions
You can swap regular pasta for whole wheat or gluten free to suit your needs If you are out of cherry tomatoes grape tomatoes work equally well For a dairy free dish simply leave out the cheese or use a favorite plant based brand Add grilled vegetables chicken or shrimp if you want more protein
Serving Suggestions
I love serving this pasta with a crisp green salad and a chunk of crusty bread For a heartier meal add roasted zucchini or toss in white beans For a picnic or potluck this pasta travels well and does not lose its flavor served at room temperature
Cultural and Historical Context
Pasta with fresh tomatoes and basil is a classic in the Italian cucina povera tradition Emphasizing ripe produce and simple techniques this dish celebrates summer bounty and humble home cooking In many Italian families Sunday evenings mean pasta just like this surrounded by laughter and good company
Seasonal Adaptations
Substitute in a handful of baby spinach or arugula if basil is out of season Add a sprinkle of lemon zest for brightness during the winter months Try golden cherry tomatoes for a different color and an even sweeter flavor
Success Stories
This recipe got me through many summers with massive tomato harvests The first time my friend made it she was amazed that such simple ingredients could taste so restaurant worthy My kids have asked for it every week since their first bite
Freezer Meal Conversion
While this pasta is best fresh you can freeze the tomato basil sauce by itself Cool completely then store in a freezer proof container for up to one month Defrost and reheat in a skillet then toss with freshly cooked pasta and basil for a quick meal
Pin This delicious pasta will brighten up any evening and brings the taste of summer to your table all year long.
Recipe Questions
- → Can I use other pasta shapes?
Yes, penne, fusilli, or farfalle work well with the tomato and basil sauce for added texture.
- → How do I make this dish vegan?
Simply omit the cheese or use a plant-based cheese alternative when topping your pasta.
- → What can I add for extra protein?
Grilled chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas can be stirred in for a more substantial meal.
- → Is it possible to make this gluten-free?
Replace regular spaghetti with certified gluten-free pasta. Always check packaging for allergens.
- → Can I prepare this ahead of time?
The sauce can be made in advance; cook pasta fresh and toss together just before serving for best texture.
- → What is the best way to store leftovers?
Store cooled pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days. Reheat gently before serving.