Let's indulge in the simplicity and freshness of Italian cooking with Pasta con Pomodorini.
This dish is all about letting the natural sweetness of cherry tomatoes shine, complemented by garlic and fresh basil. With just a few ingredients, you'll create a comforting and delicious meal that feels like a warm hug from your Italian Nonna.
Ingredients:
- 8 oz (about 220g) of your favorite pasta – spaghetti, rigatoni, lumache, or whatever you’re in the mood for!
- 2 cups (roughly a pint) of cherry tomatoes, cut in half.
- 3 to 4 cloves of garlic, finely chopped.
- 1/4 cup of extra-virgin olive oil.
- (Optional: 1/2 teaspoon of red pepper flakes)
- Salt & pepper
- Fresh basil leaves, torn or chopped.
- Parmigiano Reggiano!
Let's Start!
Pasta Prep:
- Boil a pot of water and sprinkle in a generous amount of salt – make it as salty as the sea!
- Add your chosen pasta to the boiling water and cook until it’s al dente. Save about 1/2 cup of the pasta water before you drain it. This will come in handy later.
Cherry Tomato Time:
- While the pasta is cooking, heat up the olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.
- Toss in the minced garlic (and red pepper flakes if you like a bit of spice). Sauté for about a minute until fragrant and just starting to turn golden.
Tomato Magic:
- Add the cherry tomatoes to the skillet. Season with salt and pepper.
- Let the tomatoes cook for around 8-10 minutes. You want them to soften and release their juices. Use a wooden spoon to gently press some of the tomatoes to help create a sauce.
Mix and Match:
- Once your pasta is cooked, move it directly from the pot to the skillet using tongs or a pasta fork. Mix it with the tomato sauce. If things look a bit dry, splash in some of that saved pasta water to create a smoother consistency.
Finishing Touches:
- Take the skillet off the heat. Toss in the torn or chopped fresh basil leaves and mix everything together to combine the flavors.
- Taste and adjust with a bit more salt and pepper if needed.
- Serve the pasta al pomodoro on plates. Sprinkle with extra basil leaves and as much Parmesan cheese as your heart desires!
Enjoy Every Bite: Ecco! Your pasta is ready to be savored. Grab your fork, and mangiamo! There you have it, a pasta that's easy and delicious.
Buon appetito!