This Fresh Marinated Cherry Tomato Pasta is bright and zesty! With juicy cherry tomatoes, garlic, and fresh basil, it’s a burst of summer in every bite.
Plus, it’s super easy to make—just toss it all together. I love enjoying it warm or cold, and it’s perfect for a picnic. Your taste buds will thank you! 🍅🍝
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cherry Tomatoes: These are the star of the dish! Opt for ripe, sweet tomatoes for the best flavor. If cherry tomatoes aren’t available, grape tomatoes work well too. I also like using heirloom tomatoes for a bit of color and variety.
Garlic: Fresh garlic gives this pasta a great aroma and taste. If you’re sensitive to raw garlic, you can use roasted garlic for a milder flavor. Just smash a couple of cloves and mix them in.
Olive Oil: Extra virgin olive oil is best for its rich flavor. If you don’t have it, any light olive oil will do. Some people even use avocado oil for a different taste.
Basil: Fresh basil brings a beautiful aroma. You could substitute it with fresh parsley, but the flavor will be different. Dried basil can be used in a pinch, but it’s not as vibrant.
Pasta: While spaghetti and linguine are classic choices, any type of pasta works. Try whole wheat, gluten-free pasta, or even zoodles (zucchini noodles) to lighten it up!
How Do I Marinate the Tomatoes for Maximum Flavor?
Marinating the tomatoes is key for this recipe. Allowing them to sit with garlic, oil, and vinegar enhances their natural sweetness. Here’s how to do it perfectly:
- Mix halved tomatoes, sliced garlic, oil, vinegar, salt, and pepper in a bowl.
- Cover and let it sit at room temperature for at least 30 minutes. For deeper flavor, let them marinate for up to 2 hours.
- This step allows the tomatoes to soften and release their juices, creating a tasty sauce.
Don’t skip this step; it’s so worth it for a punch of flavor in your pasta!
Fresh Marinated Cherry Tomato Pasta
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Salad:
- 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
- 3 cloves garlic, thinly sliced
- 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
- 1 tbsp red wine vinegar
- 1 tsp honey or sugar (optional, to balance acidity)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped (plus extra for garnish)
For the Pasta:
- 8 oz (225 g) pasta (such as spaghetti, linguine, or penne)
- Freshly grated Parmesan cheese, for serving (optional)
- Red pepper flakes (optional, for a hint of heat)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious dish takes about 10 minutes to prepare, plus 30 minutes to 2 hours of marinating time for the tomatoes. Cooking the pasta takes around 10 minutes, so you can have this meal ready in about 50 minutes or less, depending on how long you choose to marinate!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Marinate the Tomatoes:
In a medium bowl, toss together the halved cherry tomatoes, sliced garlic, olive oil, red wine vinegar, honey (if you’re using it), salt, and pepper. Stir everything gently until well mixed. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and let it sit at room temperature for at least 30 minutes. If you have time, letting it marinate for up to 2 hours will make the flavors even better!
2. Cook the Pasta:
While the tomatoes are marinating, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to the package instructions until it’s al dente (firm to the bite). Before draining, make sure to save about 1/2 cup of the pasta water. Once cooked, drain the pasta in a colander.
3. Combine Pasta and Tomatoes:
Now, take the hot pasta and add it to the bowl with your marinated tomatoes. Toss everything together gently to combine. If the pasta looks a bit dry, add some of the reserved pasta water a little at a time until you reach your desired consistency.
4. Add Fresh Basil and Season:
Next, fold in the chopped fresh basil leaves. Taste the pasta and adjust the seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed. If you enjoy a little heat, sprinkle in some red pepper flakes!
5. Serve and Enjoy:
Dish up your Fresh Marinated Cherry Tomato Pasta immediately! Garnish each serving with extra fresh basil and a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese if you like. This dish is perfect warm or chilled, making it a versatile choice for any meal!
Enjoy your vibrant and flavorful pasta dish—it’s a real treat!
FAQ About Fresh Marinated Cherry Tomato Pasta
Can I Use Other Types of Tomatoes?
Absolutely! While cherry tomatoes are ideal for their sweetness and size, you can substitute with grape tomatoes or even diced regular tomatoes if needed. Just be sure to adjust the marinating time for larger tomatoes, as they may need a little longer to extract their juices.
Can I Make This Pasta Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare the marinated tomatoes and cook the pasta ahead of time! Store the marinated tomatoes in the fridge for up to 2 days, and cook the pasta right before serving. If you’re making it ahead, combine the two no more than an hour before serving to keep the pasta from getting mushy.
How Do I Store Leftover Pasta?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, add a splash of olive oil or a bit of reserved pasta water and gently warm it on the stove or in the microwave, stirring to combine.
Can I Add Protein to This Dish?
Definitely! This pasta pairs beautifully with grilled chicken, shrimp, or even chickpeas for a vegetarian option. Just cook your protein separately and mix it in with the pasta for a complete meal.
