Easy One Pot Pasta with Cherry Tomatoes

Looking for a simple yet delicious pasta dish that can be prepared in one pot? This Easy One Pot Pasta with Cherry Tomatoes recipe is perfect for busy weeknights and impressing friends. The vibrant flavors, coupled with the ease of preparation, make this dish a favorite among home cooks.

This dish takes about 30 minutes to prepare, making it ideal for those nights when you're short on time but still want something hearty and satisfying. It serves four people generously, ensuring that there's enough to satisfy even the hungriest tummies.

Ingredients

• 1 pound of pasta (spaghetti or penne)
• 1 can (28 ounces) of crushed tomatoes
• 3 cloves of garlic, minced
• 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped finely
• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes or to taste
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper (to taste)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Cheese of your choice for garnish (optional)

Instructions

Start by boiling water in a large pot. Add the pasta and cook until al dente, usually around 8-10 minutes or according to package instructions.

In the meantime, heat olive oil in a separate skillet over medium heat. Once it's warm, add minced garlic and let it sizzle for about one minute.

Add the crushed tomatoes, red pepper flakes, and salt. Bring this mixture to a simmer and cook for another 5 minutes or until slightly thickened.

Drain your cooked pasta and transfer it into the skillet with the sauce. Stir well to combine, ensuring that each piece of pasta gets coated in the flavorful tomato sauce.

Add halved cherry tomatoes and fresh basil leaves. Cook together just for another 2 minutes before removing from heat.

Serve immediately garnished with additional fresh basil or a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese if desired.

Tips for Success

1. Ensure the pasta is cooked to al dente; this will prevent it from becoming mushy when mixed with the sauce.
2. The amount of red pepper flakes can be adjusted according to personal preference. Some love a bit more heat while others prefer it mild and sweet.
3. If you're looking for an extra burst of flavor, consider adding some sautéed onions or mushrooms along with the cherry tomatoes.
4. Leftovers are wonderful too! Store them in the fridge and reheat gently for another meal the next day. You can also freeze portions if needed later on.

Nutritional Information (Approximate per serving)

This dish is packed with nutrients, providing a good source of fiber and vitamin C from the tomatoes while delivering essential minerals like iron and calcium thanks to the cheese and pasta components. Remember that these values may vary slightly depending on specific brands used for each ingredient.

Why Choose This Recipe?

The appeal of this dish lies in its simplicity yet robustness. Using just one pot simplifies cleanup while enhancing flavors through a combination of fresh and pantry staples. It's versatile too, allowing you to customize based on what ingredients you have available at home.

In conclusion, Easy One Pot Pasta with Cherry Tomatoes offers an excellent balance between convenience and taste. Whether you're looking for a quick dinner or want something special enough for guests, this recipe delivers every time! So why wait? Give it a try today and enjoy a delightful meal that everyone will love.