Cherry Tomato Pasta
A vibrant cherry tomato pasta with fresh basil and olive oil, perfect for a quick, flavorful vegetarian meal that highlights the sweetness of ripe tomatoes.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Boil water for pasta.
- While water is boiling, slice cherry tomatoes in half and place them in a large bowl.
- Add extra virgin olive oil and red wine vinegar to the tomatoes.
- Chop fresh basil and add to the bowl.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Mix well and serve over cooked linguine.
Tips & Substitutions
For an extra depth of flavor, consider roasting the cherry tomatoes instead of using them raw, similar to the method in Linguini With Roasted Tomatoes And Garlic. If you want a bit of heat, add red pepper flakes. Fresh basil is key, but if unavailable, parsley can be a decent substitute. Choose a good quality extra virgin olive oil to enhance the overall taste.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this pasta dish with a side of garlic bread or a fresh Italian Cauliflower Salad for a well-rounded meal. A sprinkle of grated Parmesan or a drizzle of balsamic glaze on top can elevate the flavors. This dish also pairs beautifully with Easy And Basic Red (Tomato) Sauce for those who enjoy a saucier pasta.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm the pasta in a skillet with a splash of olive oil over low heat, stirring frequently. This helps maintain the pasta's texture without making it mushy.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Cherry Tomato Pasta contains roughly 543 calories, with 0g protein, 1g carbohydrates, and 60g fat.
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different type of pasta for this recipe?
Absolutely! While linguine is recommended, feel free to use any pasta shape you like, such as penne or spaghetti. Just keep in mind that cooking times may vary, so adjust accordingly.
Is this recipe suitable for vegans?
Yes, this Cherry Tomato Pasta can easily be made vegan by omitting any cheese and ensuring that the red wine vinegar is vegan-friendly. The fresh ingredients provide a satisfying and flavorful dish on their own.
Can I prepare this dish in advance?
While the pasta can be cooked ahead of time, it's best to mix in the fresh ingredients just before serving to keep them vibrant and flavorful. If you must prepare in advance, store components separately and combine just before serving.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).