Are you ready to elevate your pasta game with a dish that bursts with flavor and freshness? Introducing Herb and Garlic Tomato Spaghetti—a simple yet irresistible Italian delight that can be whipped up in just 20 minutes! Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a cozy date night, this recipe combines the sweetness of cherry tomatoes, the aromatic allure of garlic, and the vibrant touch of fresh herbs. Dive into this culinary adventure and discover how easy it is to create a restaurant-quality meal right in your own kitchen!
Prep Time: 5 mins
Cook Time: 15 mins
Total Time: 20 mins
Cuisine: Italian
Serves: 2 servings
Ingredients
- Spaghetti
- Cherry tomatoes
- Garlic
- Fresh herbs (basil, parsley)
- Olive oil
- Salt
- Pepper
Instructions
- Begin by gathering all your ingredients: spaghetti, cherry tomatoes, garlic, fresh herbs (basil and parsley), olive oil, salt, and pepper.
- Fill a large pot with water and bring it to a boil over high heat. Once boiling, add a generous amount of salt to the water to enhance the flavor of the pasta.
- Once the water is boiling, add the spaghetti to the pot. Cook according to the package instructions until al dente, usually about 8-10 minutes.
- While the spaghetti is cooking, prepare the sauce. In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat.
- Peel and finely chop 2-3 cloves of garlic. Add the chopped garlic to the skillet and sauté for about 1-2 minutes, or until fragrant and lightly golden. Be careful not to burn the garlic.
- Next, wash and halve a cup of cherry tomatoes. Add them to the skillet with the garlic. Cook for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the tomatoes soften and start to burst.
- While the tomatoes are cooking, finely chop a handful of fresh basil and parsley. Set aside for later use.
- Once the spaghetti is cooked, reserve about ½ cup of pasta water, then drain the spaghetti in a colander.
- Add the drained spaghetti to the skillet with the garlic and tomatoes. Toss everything together, adding reserved pasta water a little at a time if needed to create a light sauce.
- Season the spaghetti with salt and pepper to taste. Stir in the chopped fresh herbs, mixing well to combine all the flavors.
- Remove the skillet from heat and drizzle a little more olive oil on top for added flavor.
- Serve the herb and garlic tomato spaghetti hot, garnished with additional fresh herbs if desired.
Tips
- Choose Quality Ingredients: For the best flavor, opt for fresh cherry tomatoes and high-quality olive oil. The freshness of your ingredients will make a noticeable difference in the final dish.
- Don’t Overcook the Garlic: Sauté the garlic just until it’s fragrant and lightly golden. Overcooked garlic can turn bitter, ruining the delicate balance of flavors.
- Reserve Pasta Water: Always save a bit of the pasta cooking water before draining. This starchy water can help you achieve the perfect sauce consistency when tossed with the spaghetti.
- Experiment with Herbs: While basil and parsley are fantastic, feel free to mix in other fresh herbs like oregano or thyme for a unique twist on this classic dish.
- Add a Kick: If you like a bit of heat, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes to the garlic as it cooks for an extra layer of flavor.
- Garnish Generously: Don’t skimp on the fresh herbs when serving! A sprinkle of extra basil or parsley on top adds a beautiful touch and enhances the dish's aroma.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 270kcal
Carbohydrates: 43g
Protein: g
Fat: g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 0mg
