Looking for a quick and delicious meal that captures the essence of summer? Dive into this vibrant "Summer Pasta with Tomatoes" recipe that will transport your taste buds straight to the Italian countryside! With just a handful of fresh ingredients and a mere 25 minutes of your time, you can whip up a dish that’s bursting with flavor and perfect for any occasion. Whether you're hosting a dinner party or enjoying a cozy night in, this pasta dish is sure to impress. Ready to make your summer dining unforgettable? Let’s get cooking!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 10 mins
Total Time: 25 mins
Cuisine: Italian
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 8 oz pasta of choice
- 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Parmesan cheese for serving
Instructions
- Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil over high heat. This will be used to cook the pasta.
- While the water is heating, prepare your ingredients. Rinse the cherry tomatoes under cold water, then halve them. Set aside.
- Chop the fresh basil leaves and set them aside as well. Mince the garlic clove finely to release its aroma.
- Once the water is boiling, add the 8 oz of pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente, usually about 8-10 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
- While the pasta is cooking, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds, or until fragrant, being careful not to let it burn.
- Add the halved cherry tomatoes to the skillet, stirring gently to combine with the garlic. Cook for about 5 minutes, allowing the tomatoes to soften and release their juices. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- When the pasta is done cooking, reserve about 1/2 cup of the pasta water, then drain the pasta in a colander.
- Add the drained pasta directly to the skillet with the tomatoes. Toss to combine, adding a bit of the reserved pasta water if the mixture seems dry. This will help create a light sauce.
- Remove the skillet from heat and stir in the chopped fresh basil, mixing well to incorporate the flavors.
- Serve the pasta warm, garnished with freshly grated Parmesan cheese on top. Optionally, drizzle with a little extra olive oil and add more fresh basil if desired.
Tips
- Choose the Right Pasta: While any pasta will work, consider using spaghetti or penne for the best texture with the sauce. Whole wheat or gluten-free options can also be delicious!
- Fresh Ingredients Matter: For the best flavor, use ripe cherry tomatoes and fresh basil. They make a world of difference in this simple dish.
- Don’t Skip the Pasta Water: Reserving some pasta cooking water is key! It helps to create a silky sauce that clings beautifully to the pasta.
- Customize Your Dish: Feel free to add other seasonal vegetables like zucchini or bell peppers for extra color and nutrition. You can also toss in some cooked chicken or shrimp for added protein.
- Perfect Parmesan: For the best finish, use freshly grated Parmesan cheese. It melts beautifully over the warm pasta and enhances the overall flavor.
- Make It Ahead: This dish can be prepared in advance. Just reheat gently with a splash of olive oil and a little reserved pasta water to bring it back to life!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 320kcal
Carbohydrates: 45g
Protein: 10g
Fat: 12g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 5mg
