Pasta with Cherry Tomato Sauce and Basil Recipe

If you’re looking for a fresh, simple dish that bursts with summer flavors, this Pasta with Cherry Tomato Sauce and Basil Recipe is exactly what you need. I love how the cherry tomatoes cook down into a vibrant, slightly sweet sauce that’s perfectly balanced by the fragrant basil. It’s easy enough for a quick weeknight dinner but special enough to impress friends without spending hours in the kitchen.

This pasta recipe is a real winner because it takes minimal ingredients but delivers maximum flavor and comfort. Whether you’re serving it for a casual family meal or tossing it together last minute for guests, the sweet tomatoes and fresh basil create a beautiful harmony that you’ll want to enjoy again and again. Trust me, once you try this one, it’ll become your go-to.

this …

Ingredients & Why They Work

The magic behind this Pasta with Cherry Tomato Sauce and Basil Recipe lies in balancing freshness with simplicity. Each ingredient complements the other perfectly, and with a few tips, it’s really easy to pick the best produce and create a lively sauce.

• Spaghetti: A classic pasta that holds the sauce well, but you can swap for your favorite shape.
• Olive Oil: Choose a good quality extra virgin olive oil for rich, fruity notes in your sauce.
• Cherry Tomatoes: Look for ripe, glossy tomatoes—sweetness is key here for a natural sauce.
• Garlic: Fresh minced garlic adds just the right amount of pungency and warmth.
• Salt: Enhances the natural flavors of the tomatoes and balances sweetness.
• Crushed Red Pepper: Adds a gentle kick; adjust to your spice preference.
• Fresh Basil: Bright and aromatic, it lifts the whole dish with herbal freshness.
• Parmesan Cheese: A sprinkle gives a savory, nutty depth that rounds out the flavors.

Make It Your Way

One of the things I adore about this Pasta with Cherry Tomato Sauce and Basil Recipe is how flexible it is. I sometimes tweak the heat level or throw in some extra veggies from my fridge, and it still turns out fantastic. You can totally make this dish your own based on what you have and what you love.

• Variation: For a heartier meal, try adding cooked chicken or sautéed mushrooms—I’ve loved both versions on busy nights.
• Dietary Modifications: Swap the spaghetti for gluten-free pasta or zucchini noodles to keep it light and allergy-friendly.
• Seasonal Changes: Use grape or Roma tomatoes if cherry tomatoes aren’t in season; just chop them up for the sauce.
• Extra Flavor: A squeeze of fresh lemon juice at the end adds a refreshing zing I usually enjoy.

Step-by-Step: How I Make Pasta with Cherry Tomato Sauce and Basil Recipe

Step 1: Perfectly Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of heavily salted water to a rolling boil—you want the water to taste as salty as the sea. Cook your spaghetti until it’s just al dente, usually a minute less than the package says, because it will keep cooking slightly when you toss it in the sauce. Don’t forget to reserve about half a cup of that starchy pasta water before draining; it’s pure gold for adjusting your sauce’s texture later.

Step 2: Build Your Sauce with Cherry Tomatoes

Heat the olive oil over medium heat in a large skillet, then gently add those gorgeous cherry tomatoes. Let them cook undisturbed for a few minutes until they start to soften and burst, giving off their natural sweetness. Stir occasionally, but don’t rush—this slow cooking is key to creating a lush base for your sauce.

Step 3: Garlic, Spice & Mashing Magic

Add minced garlic, salt, and crushed red pepper to the skillet, cooking just until fragrant—about a minute. Then, with the back of a spoon or a potato masher, gently press down on the tomatoes to encourage them to burst and release those wonderful juices. This step transforms your dish from chunky to saucy in minutes, without losing that fresh tomato brightness.

Step 4: Combine Pasta, Basil & Cheese

Transfer your drained spaghetti right into the skillet with the tomato sauce. Toss in the fresh chopped basil and grated Parmesan cheese, stirring everything together. Use a splash of the reserved pasta water to loosen the sauce until it clings beautifully to every strand of pasta. This is where the magic really comes together—the sauce coats the pasta perfectly and the basil flavor blooms.

How to Serve Pasta with Cherry Tomato Sauce and Basil Recipe

Garnishes

I love topping the pasta with extra fresh basil leaves and an additional sprinkle of grated Parmesan for a delicious finish. Sometimes I add a drizzle of good quality olive oil or a few cracked black peppercorns for an extra flavor kick. These small touches always make the dish feel elevated and homemade.

Side Dishes

To keep things simple and cozy, I usually serve this pasta with a crisp green salad or some garlic bread to soak up the sauce. Roasted vegetables or a light Caprese salad are also lovely if you want something a little more polished. The key is to keep it fresh and complementary without overpowering those delicious tomato-basil notes.

Creative Ways to Present

For special dinners, I like to twirl the pasta into neat little nests on each plate and garnish with delicate basil sprigs and edible flowers—makes for a beautiful presentation that wows guests. You can also serve the sauce family-style in a big bowl with pasta on the side, encouraging everyone to customize their portions.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

I usually store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge, and I find the pasta keeps well for about 4-5 days. The sauce sometimes thickens up, so I loosen it with a splash of water or olive oil when reheating. Just be gentle to keep the textures intact.

Freezing

I like to freeze the cherry tomato sauce separately in small portions, and it freezes beautifully for up to 3 months. When I’m ready to eat, I just thaw it in the fridge and toss it with freshly cooked pasta for a speedy meal.

Reheating

When reheating, I prefer warming the pasta gently in a skillet with a bit of olive oil or reserved pasta water to revive the sauce’s silky texture. Microwave works in a pinch, but stirring halfway through helps keep it evenly heated without drying out.

FAQs

Final Thoughts

This Pasta with Cherry Tomato Sauce and Basil Recipe feels like a warm hug on a busy day. It’s that perfect weeknight dish that’s quick, flavorful, and satisfying without a lot of fuss. I hope you’ll give it a try and discover how a few simple ingredients can come together in a way that feels both fresh and comforting. It’s become a favorite in my kitchen—and I’m sure you’ll love making it yours too!

Print