10 Minute Cherry Tomato Pasta with Garlic and Basil Recipe

If you’re looking for a dish that bursts with fresh, vibrant flavors yet comes together in a flash, this 10 Minute Cherry Tomato Pasta with Garlic and Basil Recipe is exactly what you need in your kitchen rotation. Imagine sweet cherry tomatoes, tender pasta, fragrant garlic, and fresh basil all mingling with a touch of balsamic glaze and melting butter—this recipe delivers a deliciously comforting meal without spending hours by the stove. It’s perfect for busy weeknights, last-minute guests, or whenever you want something simple but truly satisfying.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of this 10 Minute Cherry Tomato Pasta with Garlic and Basil Recipe is in its simplicity and quality ingredients. Each element plays a crucial role to create that perfect balance of flavor, texture, and color that makes this dish so irresistible.

• Pasta (200 grams dried or 300 grams fresh): The foundation of your meal, choose your favorite type but remember fresh pasta cooks faster and adds a delicate texture.
• Butter, 70 grams cubed: Adds richness and a silky mouthfeel that turns this simple pasta into something indulgent.
• Garlic, 3 cloves finely chopped: Infuses the dish with its unmistakable aromatic punch that wakes up every bite.
• Balsamic glaze, 3 tablespoons: Offers a sweet, tangy depth that complements the tomatoes beautifully.
• Cherry tomatoes, 400 grams: These little gems burst with juicy sweetness and are the star ingredient that brightens the entire dish.
• Basil leaves, 1 cup loosely packed: Fresh basil brings that herbaceous, refreshing note that defines the recipe’s flavor profile.
• Salt and pepper to taste: Essential for enhancing the natural flavors and seasoning the dish perfectly.
• Parmesan to serve: Adds savory umami and a touch of saltiness, elevating the final presentation and taste.
• Optional burrata to top: For a creamy, dreamy addition that makes this pasta extra special—but totally optional!

How to Make 10 Minute Cherry Tomato Pasta with Garlic and Basil Recipe

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook your pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Fresh pasta will only take a couple of minutes, while dried could need around 8 minutes. Drain the pasta, reserving a half cup of pasta water for later.

Step 2: Sauté Garlic and Tomatoes

While the pasta cooks, heat the cubed butter in a skillet over medium heat. Once melted, add the finely chopped garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant but not browned. Toss in the cherry tomatoes and cook until they start to soften and blister, releasing their natural juices—about 3 minutes.

Step 3: Add Balsamic and Seasonings

Pour the balsamic glaze into the skillet and stir it through the tomatoes, letting it thicken just slightly. Season with salt and pepper to taste, balancing the sweetness and acidity beautifully.

Step 4: Combine Pasta and Basil

Add the drained pasta directly into the skillet with the tomatoes and garlic. Toss everything together, adding a splash of the reserved pasta water if needed to loosen the sauce. Finally, stir in the fresh basil leaves, letting their fragrance permeate the warm pasta as it comes together.

How to Serve 10 Minute Cherry Tomato Pasta with Garlic and Basil Recipe

Garnishes

A generous grating of Parmesan cheese on top adds a salty, nutty finish that’s simply irresistible. For a luxurious twist, place a dollop of creamy burrata in the center—it melts slightly into the warm pasta, creating a rich and velvety experience.

Side Dishes

This pasta pairs wonderfully with crisp salads, like a simple arugula with lemon dressing or a fresh green bean salad with almonds. Garlic bread or a rustic baguette also complements the dish by soaking up every last bit of the luscious sauce.

Creative Ways to Present

For a charming dinner party, serve the pasta in shallow bowls with whole basil leaves as a fresh garnish. Drizzle a little extra balsamic glaze on top for a glossy finish. You could also present it alongside grilled chicken or seared shrimp for added protein that elevates the meal.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have any leftovers (which might be rare!), store them in an airtight container in the fridge. The pasta will keep well for up to 2 days, but you might notice the tomatoes soften further, which is still delicious.

Freezing

Freezing this pasta isn’t the best option, as fresh basil and delicate tomatoes can lose their texture and freshness after thawing. It’s best enjoyed freshly made or stored short term in the fridge.

Reheating

To reheat, gently warm the pasta in a skillet over low heat with a splash of water or olive oil to bring back some moisture. Avoid microwaving if possible to preserve the texture and flavor integrity.

FAQs

Can I use other types of tomatoes in this recipe?

Absolutely! While cherry tomatoes work wonderfully because of their sweetness and size, you can substitute with grape tomatoes or even chopped heirlooms. Just remember the cooking time may vary slightly depending on the tomato’s juiciness.

Is it possible to make this dish vegan?

Yes, you can easily make this recipe vegan by swapping the butter for olive oil and omitting the Parmesan and burrata. Nutritional yeast sprinkled on top can add a cheesy flavor in place of Parmesan.

What pasta shapes work best for this recipe?

This recipe is quite versatile, but simple shapes like spaghetti, linguine, or even penne work best as they catch the garlicky tomato sauce well.

How fresh should the basil be?

The fresher, the better! Basil’s aroma and flavor are crucial to this dish’s identity, so try to use fresh, vibrant leaves rather than dried or old basil for the best results.

Can I add protein to this pasta?

Definitely! Grilled chicken, shrimp, or even crispy pancetta can add heartiness and make the meal more substantial, all while pairing beautifully with the existing flavors.

Final Thoughts

This 10 Minute Cherry Tomato Pasta with Garlic and Basil Recipe is a true celebration of simple ingredients coming together to create something magical. Its fresh, bright flavors and speedy preparation make it not only a staple for busy days but also a joyful dish to share with loved ones. Trust me, once you try this recipe, it will become a beloved go-to whenever you crave a comforting, flavorful pasta in a flash!

Print