This bright and colorful pasta dish features juicy cherry tomatoes marinated in simple, tasty seasonings. It’s quick to make and perfect for a healthy meal!
I adore how this recipe is a breeze to whip up! Just boil the pasta, toss in those flavorful tomatoes, and you’ve got a delicious dinner. It’s fun to add cheese on top too! 🍅🍝
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cherry Tomatoes: The star of the dish! I love using ripe, juicy cherry tomatoes for their sweetness. If they’re out of season, grape tomatoes work too, or even diced regular tomatoes if needed.
Olive Oil: Extra virgin olive oil adds great richness. For a different flavor, try avocado oil or a light vegetable oil, but stick to olive if you can for the best taste.
Balsamic Vinegar: This gives the dish a nice tang. You can swap it out for red wine vinegar or apple cider vinegar if you prefer something lighter. Just taste as you go!
Pasta: I love spaghetti, but any pasta works great! Try whole grain for a healthier option, or gluten-free pasta if you’re avoiding gluten.
Parmesan Cheese: This adds a lovely salty taste. If you’re dairy-free, nutritional yeast is a fantastic substitute for a cheesy flavor.
How Do You Marinate the Tomatoes for Maximum Flavor?
Marinating the tomatoes is key to enhancing their taste! Follow these simple steps:
- Mix halved cherry tomatoes with olive oil, minced garlic, balsamic vinegar, and seasonings in a bowl.
- Let this sit at room temperature for at least 15-20 minutes. This allows the tomatoes to soak in all the yummy flavors.
- Stir occasionally to ensure every piece gets the marinade magic!
This step will make your pasta burst with flavor, transforming simple ingredients into a delightful meal!
Easy Marinated Cherry Tomato Pasta
Ingredients:
- 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
- 1 teaspoon sugar (optional, to balance acidity)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 8 ounces (about 225 grams) pasta (spaghetti, linguine, or your choice)
- 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, torn
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
- Red pepper flakes (optional, for a bit of heat)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful pasta dish takes about 10 minutes for preparation and around 15 minutes to cook. In total, you’re looking at about 25-30 minutes from start to finish, making it an ideal quick meal for any day!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Marinate the Tomatoes:
In a bowl, combine the halved cherry tomatoes, olive oil, minced garlic, balsamic vinegar, sugar (if you’re using it to balance acidity), salt, and pepper. Mix everything gently so the tomatoes get covered in flavor. Let this marinate at room temperature for at least 15-20 minutes so the flavors can blend nicely.
2. Cook the Pasta:
While your tomatoes are marinating, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to the package instructions until it’s al dente (cooked but still firm to the bite). Before you drain it, be sure to reserve about 1/2 cup of the pasta water. This is great for adjusting the sauce consistency later.
3. Combine Everything:
After draining the pasta, add it to the bowl with the marinated tomatoes. Toss everything together gently. If it seems a bit dry, add some of that reserved pasta water a little at a time until the sauce coats the pasta nicely.
4. Finish with Fresh Herbs:
Now, stir in the torn fresh basil leaves for a fresh pop of flavor. If you like a bit of spice, this is a great time to sprinkle in some red pepper flakes!
5. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve your pasta right away, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired. Enjoy this fresh, vibrant meal that’s perfect for any occasion!
Happy cooking!
FAQ for Easy Marinated Cherry Tomato Pasta
Can I Use Different Types of Pasta?
Absolutely! While spaghetti or linguine works perfectly, feel free to substitute with any pasta shape you prefer. Whole grain or gluten-free options also work well!
How Long Can I Store Leftovers?
Leftover marinated tomato pasta can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When ready to eat, simply reheat it in a skillet or microwave, adding a splash of olive oil or reserved pasta water to keep it moist.
Can I Make This Recipe Vegan?
Yes! To make it vegan, simply omit the Parmesan cheese or substitute it with a dairy-free cheese option or nutritional yeast for added flavor.
What Other Vegetables Can Be Added?
This pasta dish is very versatile! You can add other vegetables like spinach, arugula, bell peppers, or zucchini. Just sauté them briefly before mixing them with the pasta for an additional layer of flavor.
