This easy cherry tomato pasta recipe is the ultimate spring dinner—fresh, garlicky, and perfect with crusty bread. Ready in minutes for a light, flavourful meal!
Serves 4 to 6
Ingredients
- 12 ounces pasta (if you want gf -> chickpea, lentil or kale)
- ⅓ cup extra-virgin olive oil, plus more for drizzling
- 3 garlic cloves, sliced
- 3 pints cherry tomatoes
- 2½ tablespoons capers (optional)
- 2 teaspoons lemon zest
- 1 teaspoon balsamic vinegar
- 1 teaspoon Himalayan salt
- ¼ to ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes
- Freshly ground black pepper
- 1½ cups fresh basil leaves
- ¼ cup grated pecorino cheese, or Parmesan or Vegan Parmesan, optional
Instructions
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Cook the pasta in a large pot of boiling salted water according to the package directions, or until al dente. Drain and toss with a drizzle of olive oil to prevent sticking.
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In a large, deep skillet or Dutch oven, heat the ⅓ cup oil over medium-low heat. Add the garlic and cook for 1 minute, stirring, until soft and fragrant. Add half the tomatoes along with the capers, lemon zest, vinegar, salt, red pepper flakes, and several grinds of pepper. Toss to coat. If the oil starts to sputter while cooking, turn the heat down as needed. Cook for 8 minutes, stirring often, until the tomatoes break down and release their juices.
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Add the remaining tomatoes, stir, and cook for 2 to 4 minutes, or until the second addition of tomatoes is just beginning to burst. Add the pasta and toss to combine. Cook for 1 to 2 more minutes, or until the pasta is coated in the sauce and heated through.
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Stir in the basil and cheese, if using. Season to taste and serve.
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