Cherry Tomato Pasta Dish

This simple cherry tomato pasta has been my weeknight dinner savior for years. The sweet burst tomatoes create a light, flavorful sauce that coats every strand of pasta, while fresh basil and mozzarella pearls add brightness and creaminess without weighing the dish down.

I first made this pasta during a busy workweek when I needed something quick but didn't want to sacrifice flavor. It's since become my go-to entertaining dish when I want to impress guests without spending hours in the kitchen.

Ingredients

• 1 pound linguine: The long strands beautifully capture the chunky tomato sauce. Look for quality pasta that has a rough texture for better sauce adhesion.
• 1/4 cup olive oil: Use a good quality extra virgin olive oil here as it forms the flavor foundation.
• 1/2 cup finely chopped yellow onion: Sweet yellow onions provide the aromatic base. Choose firm onions with tight skins.
• 3 garlic cloves minced: Fresh garlic provides essential flavor depth. Look for firm bulbs without any sprouting.
• 3 pints cherry tomatoes: These tiny flavor bombs create the sauce. Select brightly colored tomatoes that feel heavy for their size.
• 1/2 teaspoon sugar: Just a touch balances the acidity of the tomatoes. Raw cane sugar works beautifully here.
• 1 teaspoon kosher salt: The flaky texture dissolves perfectly into the sauce.
• 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper: Grind it yourself for the most aromatic flavor.
• 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper: Provides a gentle heat that enhances the other flavors.
• 1/2 cup mozzarella pearls: These tiny balls melt slightly into the hot pasta. Fresh is best here.
• 1/2 cup chopped fresh basil: The aromatic herbal notes make the dish sing. Look for vibrant green leaves without any wilting.
• Shredded Parmesan for serving: A nutty finish that brings everything together.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Boil the Pasta:

Bring a large pot of generously salted water to a rolling boil. Add the linguine and cook until al dente according to package directions. Before draining, reserve about 1 cup of the starchy pasta water. The pasta water contains essential starch that will help create a silky sauce later.

Create the Aromatic Base:

While the pasta cooks, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent and softened but not browned, about 2 to 3 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook just until fragrant, about 30 seconds longer. Be careful not to burn the garlic as it will become bitter.

Burst the Tomatoes:

Increase the heat to medium high and add all cherry tomatoes, sugar, salt, and black pepper to the pan. Cook for 7 to 8 minutes, tossing occasionally to ensure even cooking. Watch as the tomatoes begin to soften, collapse, and release their juices. Use a wooden spoon to gently press some tomatoes against the side of the pan, helping them burst and release their sweet juices to form a chunky natural sauce.

Combine and Finish:

Add the drained pasta directly to the skillet with the tomato mixture. Sprinkle in the crushed red pepper flakes, add the mozzarella pearls, and scatter the fresh basil throughout. Using tongs, toss everything together until well combined, allowing the heat to slightly melt the cheese. If the pasta seems dry, add splashes of the reserved pasta water until you reach your desired consistency. The starch in the water will help the sauce cling to the pasta.

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The first time I made this dish, I accidentally added too much crushed red pepper and my children still talk about how I made their tongues catch fire! Now I measure the pepper flakes carefully, but sometimes add a bit extra to my own portion. The way the sweet tomatoes play against that gentle heat creates a flavor combination I simply cannot resist.

Make-Ahead Options

While this pasta is at its peak when freshly made, you can prepare components ahead of time to streamline the cooking process. Chop onions, mince garlic, and measure out dry ingredients up to 24 hours in advance. Store everything separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator. When ready to cook, simply follow the recipe as written for a fresh-tasting meal in even less time.

Storing Leftovers

If you happen to have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors actually continue to develop overnight, though the pasta will absorb some of the moisture. When reheating, add a small splash of water or olive oil to refresh the sauce. A quick 2 minute warm-up in the microwave works perfectly, or gently reheat on the stovetop over medium-low heat until just warmed through.

Seasonal Variations

Summer brings the sweetest cherry tomatoes, making this the perfect dish for those hot months when you want minimal cooking time. During colder seasons, look for greenhouse-grown cherry tomatoes which still offer good flavor. In late summer, try mixing in different colored heirloom cherry tomatoes for visual appeal and subtle flavor variations. The red, yellow, and purple varieties create a stunning presentation while each contributing slightly different flavor notes to the finished dish.

Serving Suggestions

This vibrant pasta stands beautifully on its own, but pairs wonderfully with a simple arugula salad dressed with lemon and olive oil. For protein, consider adding grilled chicken breast, sautéed shrimp, or white beans to the finished dish. A glass of crisp Pinot Grigio or light Sangiovese makes the perfect beverage pairing, complementing the acidity of the tomatoes without overwhelming the delicate flavors.

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Frequently Asked Questions

→ Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes, you can substitute linguine with spaghetti, fettuccine, or penne. The recipe is versatile and works well with most pasta shapes.

→ Do I need to use fresh cherry tomatoes?

Fresh cherry tomatoes are recommended for the best flavor, but you can use canned cherry tomatoes in a pinch.

→ How can I make the dish spicier?

Add more crushed red pepper or a pinch of cayenne pepper for an extra spicy kick.

→ Can I prepare this dish in advance?

This dish is best served immediately, but you can prepare the sauce ahead of time and reheat it before mixing with freshly cooked pasta.

→ What can I substitute for mozzarella pearls?

You can use diced fresh mozzarella, burrata, or even grated Parmesan cheese as a substitute.

→ How can I make this dish vegan?

Replace mozzarella pearls with a vegan cheese alternative and skip the Parmesan topping. Ensure the pasta is vegan-friendly as well.