Pasta with cherry tomatoes and basil

Pasta with Cherry Tomatoes and Basil

Who doesn't love a steaming plate of pasta with a delicious, aromatic sauce full of fresh vegetables? This recipe for pasta with cherry tomatoes and basil is not only simple but also full of flavor, perfect for a quick dinner or to impress guests. Let's embark on this culinary journey step by step!

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 20 minutes
Total: 35 minutes
Servings: 3-4

Ingredients

- 300 g pasta (spaghetti, fusilli, or your choice)
- 14 cherry tomatoes
- 1 medium onion
- ½ yellow bell pepper
- 200 g mushrooms (optional, preferably canned for simplicity)
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste
- 1 tablespoon pepper paste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 cloves of garlic
- a few fresh basil leaves
- salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon butter (optional, for extra creaminess)

Preparation

1. Preparing the ingredients: Start by washing the cherry tomatoes well and cutting them in half. Peel, wash, and finely chop the onion. Dice the bell pepper, and rinse and chop the mushrooms into smaller pieces.

2. Sautéing the vegetables: In a deep skillet, heat the olive oil. Add the onion and cherry tomatoes and sauté for 1 minute until they become slightly translucent. This is when the flavors intensify, and the aroma will fill your kitchen with delicious promises!

3. Adding water and vegetables: Once the onion and tomatoes have started to soften, add 1 ½ cups of water and wait for it to reach a boiling point. When the water boils, add the mushrooms and bell pepper. Cover the skillet with a lid and let it simmer on medium heat for about 10 minutes until the vegetables soften and the sauce begins to thicken.

4. Finishing the sauce: Once the vegetables are cooked, add the tomato paste and pepper paste, mixing well. Peel the garlic cloves, crush them, and add them to the skillet. Season with salt and pepper to taste and let it simmer for another 1-2 minutes. The flavors will combine perfectly, creating a delicious sauce.

5. Cooking the pasta: In a separate pot, add salted water and a tablespoon of butter, then place it on the heat. When the water boils, add the pasta and let it cook according to the package instructions. Typically, pasta cooks between 8-12 minutes, depending on the type chosen.

6. Assembling the plate: When the pasta is ready, drain it well in a colander. Place the warm pasta on plates, cover it with the cherry tomato and vegetable sauce, and sprinkle fresh basil leaves on top. This will add a final touch of flavor and a colorful aspect to your dish.

Useful tips

- Choose whole grain pasta: By opting for whole grain pasta, you'll benefit from higher fiber and nutrient content without sacrificing taste.
- Add protein: If you want to make this dish heartier, you can add grilled chicken, shrimp, or tofu.
- Vary the vegetables: Add more color and nutrients by including zucchini, eggplant, or even fresh spinach.
- The sauce: If you prefer a creamier sauce, you can also add a bit of sour cream or crumbled feta cheese for a deeper flavor.
- Serving: This pasta pairs wonderfully with a fresh green salad or garlic toasted bread.

Nutritional benefits

This dish provides an excellent source of vitamins and minerals due to the fresh vegetables. Cherry tomatoes are rich in antioxidants, particularly lycopene, which has beneficial effects on cardiovascular health. Basil not only adds flavor but also has antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties.

Frequently asked questions

- Can I use other types of pasta? Of course! Spaghetti, penne, or even gluten-free pasta are all excellent options.
- How can I store leftovers? You can keep the pasta and sauce in an airtight container in the fridge for 2-3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stove before serving.
- Is this recipe vegan? Yes, if you omit the butter and choose egg-free pasta, the recipe will be completely vegan.

A personal note

This recipe for pasta with cherry tomatoes and basil reminds me of warm summer evenings when outdoor dining becomes a true celebration of simple yet effective flavors. Whether you prepare it for yourself or for loved ones, this recipe will bring a smile to everyone's faces. Enjoy every bite and don't forget to share this delicacy with those you love!

Savor every moment spent in the kitchen and enjoy a meal full of love and flavor!