What To Know
- Add some chopped fresh basil or parsley to the pasta before serving for a pop of color and flavor.
- They are also a good source of lycopene, an antioxidant that has been linked to a reduced risk of cancer and heart disease.
- Store leftover cherry tomato pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Cherry tomato pasta is a classic Italian dish that is both delicious and easy to make. It’s the perfect meal for a weeknight dinner or a casual lunch. The sweet and tangy cherry tomatoes pair perfectly with the rich and creamy pasta sauce.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/2 cup chopped onion
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 1/2 cup dry white wine (optional)
- 1 (28 ounce) can crushed tomatoes
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/4 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 pound pasta, cooked according to package directions
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the onion and cook until softened about 5 minutes.
2. Add the garlic and cook for 1 minute more.
3. Add the cherry tomatoes and cook until they begin to burst, about 5 minutes.
4. Add the white wine (if using) and let it simmer for 1 minute.
5. Add the crushed tomatoes, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Bring to a simmer and cook for 15 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened.
6. Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and stir to combine.
7. Serve immediately, topped with Parmesan cheese (if desired).
Tips:
- For a creamier sauce, add 1/2 cup of heavy cream to the skillet along with the white wine.
- If you don’t have dry white wine, you can use chicken broth or vegetable broth instead.
- Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a bit of spice.
- Serve with a side of crusty bread for dipping.
Variations:
- Add some cooked chicken, shrimp, or sausage to the pasta for a more protein-packed meal.
- Use different types of pasta, such as penne, rigatoni, or fusilli.
- Add some chopped fresh basil or parsley to the pasta before serving for a pop of color and flavor.
Benefits of Cherry Tomato Pasta:
- Cherry tomatoes are a good source of vitamins A and C, which are important for immune system health.
- They are also a good source of lycopene, an antioxidant that has been linked to a reduced risk of cancer and heart disease.
- Pasta is a good source of carbohydrates, which provide energy.
- The combination of cherry tomatoes and pasta makes for a delicious and nutritious meal.
How to Store Cherry Tomato Pasta:
- Store leftover cherry tomato pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheat the pasta in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through.
Frequently Asked Questions:
Q: Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of cherry tomatoes?
A: Yes, you can use fresh tomatoes. Simply dice them into small pieces.
Q: What type of pasta is best for this recipe?
A: Any type of pasta will work, but short pastas like penne or rigatoni are a good choice.
Q: Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can make the sauce ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Simply reheat the sauce before serving.
