Cherry tomato and basil spaghetti

Cherry Tomato and Basil Spaghetti is a light, fresh pasta dish that combines succulent cherry tomatoes with fragrant basil and garlic. This quick recipe is perfect for busy weeknights and showcases simple, vibrant flavours.

15 Dec 2025
Cook time 12 min
Prep time 15 min

Ingredients:

12 oz pasta
1/3 cup olive oil
2 garlic cloves
2 cups cherry tomatoes
1/2 cup basil leaves

Cherry tomato and basil spaghetti is a simple yet delightful dish that highlights the fresh flavors of ripe cherry tomatoes and aromatic basil. This recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a light, satisfying meal. With just a few ingredients, you can create a delicious pasta dish that is sure to please everyone's taste buds.

Instructions:

1. Cook Pasta:
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
- Add the spaghetti and cook according to the package instructions until al dente.
- Reserve 1/2 cup of the pasta cooking water, then drain the pasta and set aside.

2. Prepare Ingredients:
- While the pasta is cooking, halve the cherry tomatoes and thinly slice the garlic cloves.
- Roughly chop the basil leaves.

3. Cook Garlic and Tomatoes:
- In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
- Add the sliced garlic and sauté until golden brown, about 1-2 minutes. Be careful not to burn the garlic.
- Add the halved cherry tomatoes to the skillet.
- Cook, stirring occasionally, until the tomatoes start to soften and release their juices, about 5-7 minutes.

4. Combine Pasta and Sauce:
- Add the cooked spaghetti to the skillet with the tomatoes and garlic.
- Toss to combine, ensuring the pasta is well coated with the tomato and garlic mixture.
- If the pasta seems dry, add a bit of the reserved pasta water, a tablespoon at a time, until you reach your desired consistency.

5. Finish with Basil:
- Remove the skillet from heat and stir in the chopped basil leaves.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.

6. Serve:
- Transfer the pasta to serving plates or a large serving bowl.
- Drizzle with a little extra olive oil if desired.
- Garnish with additional fresh basil leaves if available.

7. Enjoy:
- Serve immediately while hot and enjoy your delicious Cherry Tomato and Basil Spaghetti!

This cherry tomato and basil spaghetti is an exquisite example of how simple ingredients can come together to create a delectable dish. The combination of sweet cherry tomatoes, fragrant basil, and savory garlic elevates this pasta recipe to a new level of deliciousness. Enjoy this dish freshly made and don't forget to garnish it with extra basil for an enhanced flavor.

Cherry tomato and basil spaghetti FAQ:

What is the best pasta cooking time to achieve al dente?

Cook the pasta according to the package instructions, typically around 8-12 minutes, until it's al dente. This means it should be firm to the bite but cooked through.

Can I use other types of pasta instead of spaghetti?

Yes, you can substitute spaghetti with other types of pasta like penne, fusilli, or linguine. Adjust cooking time according to the type of pasta you choose.

How do I store leftover cherry tomato and basil spaghetti?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet on low heat, adding a splash of water or olive oil to prevent drying out.

What can I substitute for fresh basil?

If fresh basil is unavailable, you can use dried basil, though the flavor will be less intense. Use about 1 teaspoon of dried basil for every tablespoon of fresh basil.

What should I do if my pasta looks too dry after mixing with the sauce?

If the pasta appears dry, add the reserved pasta cooking water a tablespoon at a time, tossing until you reach the desired consistency. This helps to enhance the sauce's flavor and moisture.

Tips:

- Use fresh, ripe cherry tomatoes for the best flavor. Slightly overripe tomatoes will add a richer, sweeter taste to the sauce.

- Fresh basil leaves are key to this dish. If you can, avoid using dried basil as it won't provide the same aromatic quality.

- Don't skimp on the olive oil, as it acts as the base of your sauce and carries the flavors of the garlic and tomatoes.

- You can add a pinch of red pepper flakes if you prefer a bit of heat in your pasta.

- Reserve a cup of pasta water before draining. Adding a bit of this starchy water to the sauce helps to create a silky texture and allows the sauce to adhere better to the pasta.

- Toss the pasta with the sauce in the pan to ensure that every strand of spaghetti is evenly coated with the tomatoes and olive oil.

Nutrition per serving

4 Servings
Calories 330kcal
Protein 12g
Carbohydrates 70g
Fiber 3.86g
Sugar 4.66g
Fat 22g

Cherry tomato and basil spaghetti