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Penne pasta with cherry tomatoes and fresh basil is a delightful dish that brings together the vibrant flavors of summer in a quick and easy weeknight meal. Perfectly al dente penne is tossed with sweet cherry tomatoes, aromatic garlic, and fragrant basil, all drizzled with a touch of olive oil. This recipe is not only simple to prepare but also visually stunning, making it a great choice for both family dinners and casual entertaining.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This penne pasta dish is a great way to enjoy fresh ingredients while spending minimal time in the kitchen. It’s light, satisfying, and bursting with flavor.
- Quick and easy to prepare in under 30 minutes.
- Uses fresh, seasonal ingredients.
- Perfect for weeknight dinners and meal prep.
- Customizable with additional vegetables or proteins.
Ingredients
- 8 ounces penne pasta
- 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- Parmesan cheese, for serving (optional)
How to Make Penne Pasta with Cherry Tomatoes and Basil
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the penne pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente, usually about 11-13 minutes. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water, then drain the pasta.
- While the pasta is cooking, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute, until fragrant but not browned.
- Add the halved cherry tomatoes to the skillet, along with salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes if using. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the tomatoes start to soften and release their juices.
- Once the pasta is cooked and drained, add it to the skillet with the tomatoes. Toss everything together, adding a bit of the reserved pasta water as needed to create a light sauce.
- Stir in the fresh basil and adjust seasoning as needed. Cook for another minute to combine the flavors.
- Serve immediately, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Tips for the Best Results
- Make sure to salt your pasta water generously; it should taste like the sea for the best flavor.
- Don’t overcook the garlic; it should be fragrant but not browned to avoid bitterness.
- Reserve some pasta water to adjust the consistency of the sauce as needed.
Easy Variations
- Add cooked chicken or shrimp for a protein boost.
- Incorporate other vegetables like spinach or zucchini for added nutrition.
- Substitute whole wheat or gluten-free penne for dietary preferences.
- Use different herbs such as parsley or oregano for a flavor twist.
What to Serve With It
- A simple green salad with vinaigrette.
- Garlic bread or crusty rolls for dipping.
- Grilled chicken or fish for a heartier meal.
- A glass of chilled white wine to complement the flavors.
Storage and Reheating
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Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of water or olive oil to help loosen the pasta.
Recipe Card
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients:
- 8 ounces penne pasta
- 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- Parmesan cheese, for serving (optional)
Instructions:
- Bring salted water to a boil and cook penne until al dente. Reserve pasta water, then drain.
- In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat and sauté garlic for 1 minute.
- Add cherry tomatoes, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes; cook for 5-7 minutes.
- Combine cooked pasta with the tomato mixture, adding reserved pasta water as needed.
- Stir in basil, adjust seasoning, and serve with Parmesan cheese if desired.
Notes: Customize with proteins or other vegetables as desired.
