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Spring Basil and Cherry Tomato Pasta

This dish combines al dente pasta with fresh basil and sweet cherry tomatoes, lightly sautéed to release their vibrant flavors. The final dish has a bright, saucy appearance with tender pasta and wilted herbs, offering a fresh and light texture perfect for spring. Simple and quick to prepare, it highlights seasonal ingredients in their natural state.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Servings: 4
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Calories: 430

Ingredients
  

  • 12 ounces spaghetti or language pasta
  • 2 pints cherry tomatoes halved
  • 3 cloves garlic minced
  • 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
  • 1/2 cup fresh basil leaves chopped
  • to taste Salt and freshly ground black pepper

Equipment

  • Large pot for boiling pasta
  • Sauté pan or skillet
  • Wooden spoon or spatula
  • Chef's knife

Method
 

  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil, then add the pasta and cook until just al dente, following package instructions. Drain and set aside.
  2. While the pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat until shimmering and fragrant.
  3. Add the minced garlic to the hot oil, sautéing until it becomes fragrant and turns golden, about 30 seconds to 1 minute, stirring constantly.
  4. Stir in the halved cherry tomatoes and cook, stirring occasionally, until they begin to soften and release their juices, about 3-4 minutes, and the mixture becomes slightly saucy.
  5. Add the drained pasta directly into the skillet with the tomato mixture. Toss gently to combine all ingredients thoroughly, letting the pasta soak up the flavors for about 1 minute.
  6. Remove from heat and stir in the chopped basil leaves, allowing their aroma to infuse into the dish. Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
  7. Serve immediately, garnished with additional basil if desired, with the vibrant, fragrant pasta ready to enjoy.