Cherry Tomato Pasta

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I keep this recipe in my regular meal rotation because it is easy to prepare and delivers incredible flavor with minimal effort.

Here are a few reasons why I enjoy it so much:

• I can make it in under 20 minutes.
• The ingredients are simple and easy to find.
• The cherry tomatoes create a naturally sweet sauce.
• Fresh basil adds wonderful aroma and freshness.
• It works as a weeknight dinner or casual entertaining dish.
• I can customize it with additional toppings and cheeses.

Ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the Pasta

• 12 ounces spaghetti
• 3 quarts (12 cups) water
• 1½ tablespoons salt

For the Sauce

• 2 pounds cherry tomatoes, halved
• 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
• 1 clove garlic, pressed or grated
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 2 twists black pepper
• ⅛ teaspoon red pepper flakes, or more to taste
• 15 fresh basil leaves
• ½ cup Parmesan cheese, grated
• 1–2 burrata cheeses (optional)

Directions

Boil the Pasta

1. I bring a large pot of water to a boil.
2. While the water heats, I cut the cherry tomatoes in half.
3. Once boiling, I add the salt and spaghetti.
4. I cook the pasta according to the package instructions, reducing the cooking time by about 2 minutes since it will finish cooking in the sauce.

Make the Sauce

1. I heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. I add the halved cherry tomatoes.
3. I season them with salt, black pepper, garlic, and red pepper flakes.
4. I cook the tomatoes for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they soften and release their juices.

Combine the Pasta and Sauce

1. Before draining the pasta, I reserve 1 cup of the pasta cooking water.
2. I drain the pasta and add it directly to the skillet with the tomatoes.
3. I add about ½ cup of the reserved pasta water and the fresh basil leaves.
4. I continue cooking and tossing the pasta for a few minutes until it reaches an al dente texture.
5. If needed, I add more pasta water to create a silky sauce.
6. I turn off the heat and stir in the Parmesan cheese until melted and fully incorporated.

Serve

1. I serve the pasta immediately.
2. I top it with additional fresh basil and a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil.
3. For extra creaminess, I add burrata cheese on top before serving.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4
• Preparation Time: 8 minutes
• Cook Time: 10 minutes
• Total Time: 18 minutes

Variations

I enjoy experimenting with this pasta depending on the season and what I have available.

• I add spinach or arugula for extra greens.
• I include sautéed shrimp for added protein.
• I substitute whole wheat spaghetti for a heartier texture.
• I use fresh mozzarella instead of burrata.
• I add roasted garlic for a deeper flavor.
• I stir in toasted pine nuts for extra crunch.

storage/reheating

I find that this pasta is best served fresh, but leftovers can still be delicious.

• I store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• I keep any burrata separate if possible and add it when serving.
• I reheat the pasta gently in a skillet over medium-low heat.
• I add a splash of water or olive oil while reheating to loosen the sauce.
• I do not recommend freezing because the tomatoes and cheese may lose their texture.

FAQs

Can I use grape tomatoes instead of cherry tomatoes?

Yes. I often substitute grape tomatoes, and they provide a similar sweetness and texture.

Why should I reserve pasta water?

I use pasta water because its starch helps create a silky sauce that clings beautifully to the pasta.

Can I make this recipe dairy-free?

Yes. I simply use a dairy-free Parmesan alternative and omit the burrata.

What can I serve with Cherry Tomato Pasta?

I enjoy pairing it with garlic bread, a green salad, or grilled vegetables.

Is burrata necessary for this recipe?

No. The pasta is delicious on its own, but I like adding burrata when I want a richer and creamier finish.

Conclusion

I love how this Cherry Tomato Pasta transforms a handful of simple ingredients into a fresh, comforting, and flavorful meal. The sweet tomatoes, aromatic basil, and creamy Parmesan create a perfectly balanced dish that comes together in minutes. Whether I am preparing a quick weeknight dinner or serving guests, this pasta always delivers satisfying results.