Spaghetti With Cherry Tomatoes And Basil
Are you looking for a quick and easy pasta dish that is packed with flavor? Look no further than spaghetti with cherry tomatoes and basil. This dish is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a weekend lunch and is sure to satisfy even the pickiest of eaters.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound spaghetti
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 pint cherry tomatoes, halved
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1/2 cup fresh basil leaves, torn
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions:
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add spaghetti and cook until al dente, according to package instructions.
- While the pasta is cooking, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add cherry tomatoes, garlic, and red pepper flakes. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the tomatoes have burst and released their juices, about 8-10 minutes.
- Season the tomato mixture with salt and pepper to taste.
- When the pasta is done, reserve 1 cup of the pasta cooking water, then drain the spaghetti and add it to the skillet with the tomato mixture.
- Add the reserved pasta cooking water to the skillet and toss everything together to combine. Cook, tossing occasionally, until the spaghetti is coated in the tomato sauce and the sauce has thickened slightly, about 2-3 minutes.
- Remove the skillet from the heat and stir in the torn basil leaves. Sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese.
- Serve hot and enjoy!
Variations:
This recipe is highly versatile and can be customized to suit your tastes. Here are a few ideas:
- Swap out the cherry tomatoes for sun-dried tomatoes for a richer, more intense flavor.
- Add cooked shrimp, chicken, or sausage to the skillet for a heartier meal.
- Use whole wheat or gluten-free spaghetti to make the dish healthier or suitable for those with dietary restrictions.
- Experiment with different herbs, such as oregano or thyme, in addition to or in place of the basil.
- Add a splash of white wine to the skillet along with the tomatoes for an extra layer of flavor.
Conclusion:
Spaghetti with cherry tomatoes and basil is a simple yet flavorful dish that is sure to become a staple in your recipe repertoire. With just a handful of ingredients and minimal prep time, this recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or lazy weekends. Plus, the variations are endless, so you can make it your own. Give it a try and see why it's a crowd-pleaser!
