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Easy Burst Cherry Tomato Pasta Recipe with Garlic and Parmesan for Perfect Flavor

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A quick and flavorful pasta dish featuring burst cherry tomatoes, garlic-infused olive oil, and nutty Parmesan cheese. Perfect for a light, fresh meal that comes together in about 20 minutes.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 cups (300g) cherry tomatoes, preferably ripe and firm
  • 8 ounces (225g) spaghetti or linguine
  • 4 cloves garlic, thinly sliced
  • 3 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
  • 1/2 cup (50g) freshly grated Parmesan cheese
  • A handful of fresh basil leaves, torn (optional)
  • Salt, to taste, plus extra for pasta water
  • Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • Pinch of red pepper flakes (optional)

Instructions

  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add a tablespoon of salt and cook 8 ounces (225g) of spaghetti or linguine according to package instructions until al dente (usually 8-10 minutes). Save about 1 cup (240ml) of pasta water before draining.
  2. While pasta cooks, heat 3 tablespoons of extra-virgin olive oil over medium heat in a large skillet. Add 4 thinly sliced garlic cloves. Stir gently to avoid burning and cook until fragrant and just golden, about 1-2 minutes.
  3. Add 2 cups (300g) of whole cherry tomatoes to the skillet. Stir occasionally, letting them soften and burst open—this should take about 5-7 minutes.
  4. Season the tomato mixture with salt, freshly ground black pepper, and a pinch of red pepper flakes if desired. Stir to combine and taste to adjust seasoning.
  5. Add the drained pasta directly into the skillet with tomatoes and garlic. Toss well to coat the strands in the flavorful juices. If the mixture seems dry, pour in reserved pasta water a little at a time until you get a silky texture that clings to the noodles.
  6. Remove from heat and stir in 1/2 cup (50g) freshly grated Parmesan cheese. Toss again, letting the cheese melt slightly and bind everything together.
  7. Add a handful of torn fresh basil leaves and give a final gentle toss. Serve immediately with extra Parmesan on the side.

Notes

Do not rush the tomato cooking step to allow them to burst naturally and release sweetness. Cook garlic on medium heat and stir frequently to avoid burning. Save some pasta water to adjust sauce consistency. Toss pasta gently to keep tomatoes intact. For protein, add cooked shrimp or grilled chicken at the end.

Nutrition

Keywords: burst cherry tomato pasta, garlic pasta, Parmesan pasta, quick pasta recipe, easy tomato pasta, weeknight dinner, vegetarian pasta

Find it online: https://sparklespoon.com/easy-burst-cherry-tomato-pasta-recipe-with-garlic-and-parmesan-for-perfect-flavor/