Description

Enjoy the irresistible flavors of Cherry Tomato Pasta, featuring fresh tomatoes, garlic, and basil. This quick and easy meal is perfect for busy weeknights, offering comfort and satisfaction with every bite.

Ingredients

Scale

2 tbsp olive oil
4 garlic cloves, minced
24 oz cherry tomatoes, halved
12 oz. short pasta, uncooked
2 tsp italian seasoning
1/2 tsp red pepper flakes
1 tsp balsamic vinegar
1/2 tsp sea salt
1/2 tsp pepper
1/3 c grated parmesan
2–3 tbsp heavy cream
2–3 tbsp tomato paste
pinch of sugar, optional
1/2 – 1 c reserved starchy pasta water
1/4 c fresh basil, chopped

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

Instructions

Bring a large pot of water to a boil and add the pasta. Cook until al dente, reserving some of the pasta water before draining.
In a large pan over medium-high heat, add olive oil. Once glistening, add minced garlic and stir for about 1 minute.
Add halved cherry tomatoes to the pan, cooking and stirring occasionally until they start to burst. Press them down to smash them slightly, then continue to simmer until broken down.
Stir in sea salt, black pepper, italian seasoning, and balsamic vinegar until combined.
Reduce the heat to medium-low, then add heavy cream and grated parmesan, stirring until the cheese melts completely. Add tomato paste and optional sugar if desired, combining all ingredients well.
Slowly mix in reserved starchy pasta water to reach desired sauce consistency, usually about 1/4 cup at a time.
Add the cooked pasta to the sauce, stirring well. Remove from heat and fold in freshly chopped basil. Serve hot, garnishing with additional basil and grated parmesan.

Notes

Feel free to substitute your favorite short pasta.
Adjust the amount of red pepper flakes based on your heat preference.
The starchy pasta water can help achieve the desired sauce thickness.

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 serving
Calories: 500
Sugar: 5g
Sodium: 400mg
Fat: 18g
Saturated Fat: 8g
Unsaturated Fat: 6g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 66g
Fiber: 4g
Protein: 16g
Cholesterol: 30mg