Are you ready to elevate your pasta game with a burst of flavor that will transport you straight to Italy? This Balsamic Cherry Tomato Pasta is not just a meal; it's a culinary experience that combines the sweetness of ripe cherry tomatoes with the tangy richness of balsamic vinegar. In just 30 minutes, you can create a vibrant dish that will impress your family and friends, making them wonder if you’ve been taking secret cooking lessons! Dive into this simple yet exquisite recipe and discover how easy it is to whip up a restaurant-quality meal right in your own kitchen!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 20 mins
Total Time: 30 mins
Cuisine: Italian
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 8 oz pasta of choice
- 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
- 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Parmesan cheese for serving (optional)
Instructions
- Begin by gathering all the ingredients. You will need 8 oz of pasta, 2 cups of halved cherry tomatoes, 2 tablespoons of balsamic vinegar, 2 tablespoons of olive oil, 1/4 cup of chopped fresh basil, salt, pepper, and Parmesan cheese for serving.
- Fill a large pot with water and add a generous amount of salt. Bring the water to a boil over high heat.
- Once the water is boiling, add the pasta of your choice. Cook according to the package instructions until al dente, usually about 8-10 minutes.
- While the pasta is cooking, prepare the cherry tomatoes. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the halved cherry tomatoes to the skillet.
- Cook the cherry tomatoes for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they start to soften and blister. This will enhance their natural sweetness.
- Once the tomatoes are cooked, add the balsamic vinegar to the skillet. Stir well to combine and let it simmer for another 2-3 minutes. The vinegar will reduce slightly and create a flavorful sauce.
- When the pasta is done cooking, reserve about 1/2 cup of the pasta water, then drain the pasta in a colander.
- Add the drained pasta directly to the skillet with the cherry tomatoes and balsamic sauce. Toss everything together over medium heat, adding reserved pasta water a little at a time until you reach your desired sauce consistency.
- Remove the skillet from the heat and stir in the chopped fresh basil. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve the Balsamic Cherry Tomato Pasta hot, garnished with additional fresh basil and grated Parmesan cheese, if desired. Enjoy your delicious Italian dish!
Tips
- Choose the Right Pasta: While any pasta will work, opt for shapes like penne or farfalle that can hold onto the sauce beautifully.
- Fresh Ingredients Matter: Use fresh basil and ripe cherry tomatoes for the best flavor. If you can, visit a local farmer's market to find the freshest produce.
- Don’t Skip the Salt: When boiling the pasta, make sure to add a generous amount of salt to the water. This is your chance to season the pasta itself!
- Pasta Water is Key: Reserve that pasta water! It’s starchy and will help bind the sauce to the pasta, giving you a perfect consistency.
- Customize Your Dish: Feel free to add other ingredients like garlic, spinach, or even grilled chicken for an extra twist.
- Serve Immediately: This dish is best enjoyed fresh. Serve it hot with a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese and a drizzle of olive oil for added richness.Enjoy your cooking adventure and savor every delicious bite of this Balsamic Cherry Tomato Pasta!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 293kcal
Carbohydrates: 47g
Protein: 8g
Fat: 8g
Saturated Fat: 1g
Cholesterol: 0mg
