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Best Roasted Mediterranean Chicken Thighs & Baby Potatoes – Easy Dinner

pasta with cherry tomatoes recipe on rustic table

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Pasta with Cherry Tomatoes is a simple, fresh, and flavorful dish featuring tender spaghetti tossed in a garlicky burst cherry tomato sauce, finished with basil and parmesan for an easy weeknight meal.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 8 ounces spaghetti
  • 1/4 cup olive oil
  • 2 pints cherry tomatoes
  • 3 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper
  • 1/2 cup fresh basil, chopped (plus more for serving)
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (plus more for serving)

Instructions

  1. Bring a large pot of heavily salted water to a boil. Cook pasta until al dente according to package directions. Reserve 1/2 cup pasta water and drain.
  2. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add cherry tomatoes and cook until softened, about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
  3. Add garlic, salt, and crushed red pepper to the skillet. Cook until fragrant, about 1 minute.
  4. Use the back of a spoon or a potato masher to gently mash the tomatoes and release their juices. Continue cooking until the tomatoes burst and create a sauce, about 5 more minutes.
  5. Add drained pasta to the skillet along with basil and parmesan cheese. Toss well to combine, adding reserved pasta water as needed for the desired sauce consistency.
  6. Serve immediately with more fresh basil and parmesan cheese, if desired.

Notes

  • Use the freshest cherry tomatoes for the sweetest flavor.
  • Add more red pepper for extra heat, or omit for a milder dish.
  • Top with extra parmesan and basil for added flavor.
  • Great as a vegetarian main or a simple side dish.

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