Get ready to revolutionize your weeknight cooking with the most magical, mess-free pasta recipe you've ever encountered! Imagine a dish that combines the fresh, vibrant flavors of ripe cherry tomatoes, creamy feta, and aromatic basil, all cooked to perfection in just ONE pot. This isn't just another pasta recipe - it's a culinary shortcut that will transform your kitchen experience, saving you time, dishes, and delivering maximum flavor with minimal effort.
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 15 mins
Total Time: 25 mins
Cuisine: Italian
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 8 oz pasta
- 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup feta cheese, crumbled
- 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Fill a large, wide skillet or pasta pot with 4 cups of water, ensuring there's enough room for the pasta to cook evenly.
- Add olive oil to the pot and heat over medium-high heat. Sauté minced garlic for 30-45 seconds until fragrant, being careful not to burn.
- Add pasta and halved cherry tomatoes to the pot. Pour in enough water to just cover the ingredients, approximately 3-4 cups.
- Bring the mixture to a rolling boil, then reduce heat to medium. Stir occasionally to prevent pasta from sticking and ensure even cooking.
- Cook for 8-10 minutes, stirring frequently, until pasta is al dente and most liquid has been absorbed. The tomatoes should begin to break down and create a light sauce.
- Remove from heat and let sit for 2-3 minutes to allow remaining liquid to be absorbed and sauce to thicken.
- Gently fold in crumbled feta cheese, allowing it to slightly melt from the residual heat.
- Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
- Garnish with freshly chopped basil leaves just before serving.
- Serve immediately in warm bowls, ensuring each portion has a generous mix of pasta, tomatoes, feta, and basil.
Tips
- Choose the Right Pan: Use a large, wide skillet to ensure even cooking and proper liquid absorption.
- Fresh is Best: Use ripe, in-season cherry tomatoes for the most intense flavor and natural sweetness.
- Timing is Crucial: Watch your pasta closely during cooking. The key is to achieve al dente texture while creating a light, silky sauce.
- Don't Overcrowd: Ensure pasta and tomatoes have enough room to move and cook evenly.
- Feta Finishing: Add feta at the end to prevent it from completely melting, maintaining its creamy texture.
- Basil Brilliance: Chop basil just before serving to preserve its bright, fresh aroma.
- Season Gradually: Taste and adjust salt and pepper as you cook for perfectly balanced flavor.Pro Tip: This recipe is incredibly forgiving and adaptable - feel free to add protein like grilled chicken or experiment with different herbs!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 380kcal
Carbohydrates: 45g
Protein: 15g
Fat: 18g
Saturated Fat: 7g
Cholesterol: 30mg
