One Pot Cherry Tomato Basil Pasta: An Easy and Delicious Recipe
Why Choose One Pot Meals?
When life gets busy, who has time for elaborate meal prep? That's where one pot meals shine! A one pot cherry tomato basil pasta dish is perfect for anyone wanting a quick, wholesome dinner without the fuss. Here’s why you should embrace this cooking method:
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Time-Saving: You can whip up your meal in just 20 minutes. Less time in the kitchen means more time to unwind.
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Easy Cleanup: With fewer dishes to wash, you can enjoy your meal without the dread of a mountain of plates awaiting you.
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Flavorful Simplicity: Cooking everything together enhances the flavors, allowing the tomatoes and garlic to complement each other as they simmer together.
Plus, this recipe is incredibly adaptable! Want to make it gluten-free? There are plenty of options for pasta substitutions such as chickpea or brown rice noodles. Into a bit of heat? Swapping in sun-dried tomato pesto for harissa can elevate the dish to your liking.
By the way, if you’re curious about the health benefits, check out Healthline’s guide on tomatoes, which highlights how they're rich in antioxidants and vitamins. So, not only is this pasta a quick meal, but it's also nutritious! Enjoy your cooking adventure!
Ingredients for One Pot Cherry Tomato Basil Pasta
When whipping up a lovely dish of one pot cherry tomato basil pasta, simplicity is the name of the game. Gather these fresh and vibrant ingredients that will create a symphony of flavors in your bowl.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: This will be your base for sautéing and adds a lovely richness.
- 5 cloves garlic, minced: You can't go wrong with garlic! It adds a fragrant kick that's essential in Italian cooking.
- 4 cups cherry tomatoes (about 560g): These beauties burst with sweetness, forming the heart of your sauce.
- 1 tablespoon harissa paste or Calabrian chili paste: For those who crave a little heat, this optional ingredient can elevate your dish.
- ½ lb spaghetti: Feel free to choose gluten-free pasta if needed—any shape works, so get creative!
- 3½ cups boiling water: This will help cook the pasta while bringing all the flavors together.
- ⅓ cup nutritional yeast: A fantastic vegan alternative to cheese, giving your dish a savory depth.
- 1 handful fresh basil: Fresh herbs are always the cherry on top, adding a fragrant finish to the meal.
Excited to cook? You can find more details on how to combine these ingredients seamlessly in the full recipe above!
Step-by-Step Preparation of One Pot Cherry Tomato Basil Pasta
Creating a delicious one pot cherry tomato basil pasta is a wonderful way to feed your appetite without spending hours in the kitchen. This dish is vibrant, quick to make, and requires minimal cleanup—perfect for busy young professionals. Let’s dive into the steps!
Gather Your Ingredients
Before you begin, gather all your ingredients to streamline the cooking process. Here's what you'll need:
- 1 tablespoon of olive oil
- 5 cloves of minced garlic
- 4 cups of fresh cherry tomatoes (about 560g)
- 1 tablespoon of harissa paste or Calabrian chili paste (for a kick!)
- ½ pound of spaghetti (gluten-free if needed)
- 3½ cups of boiling water
- ⅓ cup of nutritional yeast (for a cheesy flavor)
- A generous handful of fresh basil
Having everything ready at your fingertips will make cooking a breeze. Plus, you'll avoid those last-minute ingredient scrambles that can derail your rhythm.
Sauté the Aromatics
Start by heating a large non-stick pan over medium heat and adding the olive oil. Once hot, toss in the minced garlic and cherry tomatoes. Sauté everything together for about 3 minutes. This step releases those amazing aromas and begins breaking down the tomatoes into a delicious sauce.
To amp up the flavor, add the harissa or Calabrian chili paste. Not a fan of spice? You can easily substitute it with sun-dried tomato pesto for a milder flavor.
Cook the Pasta
After the tomatoes have softened and mingled beautifully with the garlic and spices, it’s time to add the spaghetti. Pour in the boiling water, making sure the pasta is fully submerged. Stir occasionally as it cooks to prevent sticking. You’ll want the pasta to be tender but not mushy. This should take about 10 minutes, and you'll see how the water thickens into a light sauce.
Incorporate Nutritional Yeast and Basil
Once your pasta reaches the ideal texture, turn off the heat and stir in the ⅓ cup of nutritional yeast. This ingredient is a game changer—giving your dish that umami flavor while keeping it vegan. Next, toss in your fresh basil—both for flavor and for that beautiful pop of green.
Serve and Enjoy
Your one pot cherry tomato basil pasta is now ready to be served! Dish it out while it’s still steaming hot. If desired, sprinkle some vegan parmesan on top for that extra touch of decadence. Enjoy it with a light salad or garlic bread for a complete meal.
Cooking doesn’t have to be complicated, and this dish showcases how easy and delightful one-pot meals can be. So, gather your ingredients, unleash your culinary skills, and savor every bite of this vibrant, satisfying pasta!
Variations on One Pot Cherry Tomato Basil Pasta
Alternative Pasta Shapes
Why stick to just spaghetti when you can explore a world of pasta shapes? With one pot cherry tomato basil pasta, feel free to swap in your favorites! Penne, fusilli, or even linguine can bring a delightful twist to this dish. Each shape holds the sauce differently, making every bite a new experience. Plus, using gluten-free options doesn’t compromise the satisfaction—just ensure they’re fully cooked. Check out Bon Appétit’s pasta guide for inspiration!
Adding Protein Options
Want to make your one pot cherry tomato basil pasta more filling? Consider stirring in some protein! Chickpeas or chickpea pasta not only add heartiness but also boost the nutritional content significantly. If you’re a meat eater, try adding diced turkey bacon or chicken ham for an extra savory kick. Experimenting with protein can turn this simple dish into a well-rounded meal that suits your lifestyle. What’s your go-to protein addition?
Cooking Tips and Notes for One Pot Cherry Tomato Basil Pasta
When making your one pot cherry tomato basil pasta, keep these tips in mind to ensure a perfect dish every time:
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Pasta Shape Flexibility: Feel free to swap out spaghetti for your favorite pasta shape like penne or fusilli. Just ensure they cook through in the broth.
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Spice Alternatives: If you're sensitive to spice, consider using sun-dried tomato pesto instead of chili paste. It's a great way to maintain flavor without the heat!
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Adding Protein: Want to boost the protein? Chickpeas or chickpea pasta are fantastic additions. They complement the dish beautifully and make it even more filling.
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Herb Creativity: While basil is a classic pairing, experiment with other herbs. Try adding kale or a sprig of rosemary to elevate your one pot cherry tomato basil pasta!
These simple tweaks can customize your dish to your liking and ensure a delicious meal every time. Enjoy!
Serving Suggestions for One Pot Cherry Tomato Basil Pasta
Looking to elevate your one pot cherry tomato basil pasta game? Here are some tasty serving suggestions that can transform this delicious dish into an even more delightful experience.
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Garnish with Fresh Basil: A sprinkle of additional fresh basil not only enhances the aroma but also adds a burst of flavor.
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Add Protein: For a heartier meal, consider tossing in some cooked chickpeas or even grilled chicken ham for added texture and nutrition.
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Serve with a Side: Pair your pasta with a crisp arugula salad drizzled with lemon vinaigrette to balance the richness.
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Top with Vegan Parmesan: For that cheesy flavor, try vegan parmesan or nutritional yeast—perfect for plant-based eaters.
With these tips, your one pot cherry tomato basil pasta will impress anyone at the dinner table! If you’re curious about more variations, check out our favorite guide to pasta pairings for inspiration.
Time Breakdown for One Pot Cherry Tomato Basil Pasta
Preparation Time
Getting ready to whip up this one pot cherry tomato basil pasta takes just 5 minutes. Chop your garlic and gather those vibrant cherry tomatoes—so quick and easy!
Cooking Time
Next up, the cooking. You’ll only need 15 minutes to create this flavorful dish, allowing you to enjoy your meal in no time.
Total Time
In just 20 minutes, you can savor a delicious, homemade pasta dish that hits all the right notes of comfort and flavor. Perfect for busy weeknights! For more easy pasta ideas, check out BBC Good Food or New York Times Cooking.
Nutritional Facts for One Pot Cherry Tomato Basil Pasta
When you’re craving a cozy and satisfying meal, one pot cherry tomato basil pasta fits the bill perfectly! Here’s a closer look at the nutritional profile of this delightful dish:
Calories
Each serving contains approximately 291 calories, making it a fantastic option for a light yet fulfilling meal.
Protein
Packed with 11 grams of protein, this recipe helps you stay energized throughout your busy day.
Carbohydrates
With 51.8 grams of carbohydrates, it's a great source of energy, perfect for unwinding after a long day or fueling up for an adventure.
This nutritious one pot meal not only delights your taste buds but also supports your health goals. For more ideas on quick and healthy meals, check out Healthline's guide to healthy pasta dishes.
FAQs about One Pot Cherry Tomato Basil Pasta
Can I make this dish vegan?
Absolutely! This one pot cherry tomato basil pasta is already vegan-friendly. Just ensure you're using gluten-free pasta if needed, and feel free to omit any dairy products, like cheese, or swap in nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor without the dairy. If you love flavor, consider adding smoky or spicy elements like harissa for an extra kick.
What can I substitute for cherry tomatoes?
While cherry tomatoes add a wonderful sweetness, you can easily swap them for other tomato varieties. Diced plum tomatoes or even canned tomatoes can work well. You might also consider sun-dried tomatoes for a deeper, more concentrated flavor or blistered grape tomatoes if you're looking for that caramelized taste.
How do I store leftovers?
Leftovers of your delicious one pot cherry tomato basil pasta can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. When reheating, add a splash of water to bring back the sauce's consistency. You can also freeze it for up to a month! Just thaw and heat on the stovetop or in the microwave. Enjoy your meal prep!
Conclusion on One Pot Cherry Tomato Basil Pasta
In just 20 minutes, this one pot cherry tomato basil pasta transforms simple ingredients into a vibrant, delicious meal. Perfect for busy weeknights, it’s both satisfying and nourishing. Whether you follow the recipe to the letter or mix in your favorite veggies, it’s sure to impress. Enjoy!
One Pot Cherry Tomato Basil Pasta
Equipment
- Large non-stick pan deep
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon olive oil See link for product
- 5 cloves garlic minced
- 4 cups cherry tomatoes about 560g
- 1 tablespoon harissa paste or Calabrian chili paste
- ½ lbs spaghetti gluten-free if needed
- 3½ cups boiling water
- ⅓ cup nutritional yeast
- 1 handful fresh basil large
Instructions
- In a saute pan over medium heat, add the olive oil, cherry tomatoes and garlic.
- Saute until fragrant and the cherry tomatoes begin to soften approximately 3 minutes. Add the calabrian chili paste and stir until the tomatoes and garlic are coated.
- Next add the spaghetti. Now, pour in the boiling water over it.
- Cook and stir frequently until the pasta is tender and the water has almost evaporated, creating a light sauce over the spaghetti.
- Turn off the heat, and stir in nutritional yeast and a large handful of basil. Enjoy immediately with vegan parmesan, if desired.
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