Burst Tomato Pasta

Burst Tomato Pasta

With a couple pints of tomatoes, garlic, olive oil & Parmesan, you can make this easy burst cherry tomato pasta for a quick weeknight dinner.

Ingredients

  • spaghetti
    8 oz
  • olive oil plus more for pasta
    ¼ c
  • cherry tomatoes
    2 pints
  • garlic cloves

    thinly sliced

    3
  • red pepper flakes
    ¼ tsp
  • kosher salt
    1 tsp
  • black pepper
    ½ tsp
  • shaved parmesan
    1 oz
  • chopped basil

    parsley or chives

Directions

  1. 1

    Cook the spaghetti in a large pot of salted boiling water until al dente according to package instructions. Drain and toss with a splash of olive oil in a bowl to prevent the pasta from sticking together.

  2. 2

    Heat 1/4 cup olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the tomatoes and stir them around frequently. After 3-4 minutes, the skin of some of the tomatoes will start to split. Use the back of a wooden spoon or a potato masher to carefully press them down, helping them burst.

  3. 3

    Add the garlic, red pepper flakes, salt and pepper to the skillet, and continue cooking for a few more minutes until the tomatoes turn a bit saucy but are still very chunky.

  4. 4

    Stir in the pasta coating it in the tomatoes.

  5. 5

    Fold in the Parmesan cheese.

  6. 6

    Divide into serving plates or bowls and top with chopped fresh herbs.

Burst Tomato Pasta

Burst Tomato Pasta

406 cal

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About this Recipe

Craving a vibrant, flavorful pasta dish that comes together in a flash? This Burst Tomato Pasta transforms simple pantry staples into a weeknight meal you'll adore, proving that incredible flavor doesn't have to mean hours in the kitchen.

Why This Recipe Works

The beauty of this Burst Tomato Pasta lies in its elegant simplicity. By gently cooking sweet cherry tomatoes, they naturally “burst,” releasing their juicy interiors to create a light, fresh, and deeply flavorful sauce right in the pan. The harmonious blend of fresh garlic, a hint of spicy red pepper flakes, and rich olive oil forms the perfect canvas for the plump, sweet tomatoes. Finishing with shaved Parmesan and a sprinkle of fresh herbs elevates these humble ingredients into something truly special and satisfying.

What to Expect

Prepare for a symphony of fresh, bright flavors. You'll experience the delightful sweetness of ripe cherry tomatoes, perfectly balanced with aromatic garlic and a subtle warmth from red pepper flakes. The tender spaghetti is coated in a light yet luscious sauce created directly from the tomatoes themselves, finished with salty shaved Parmesan and vibrant fresh herbs. This dish offers a light yet incredibly satisfying experience, perfect for a quick dinner. Each serving provides 406 calories, making it a mindful choice for your weeknight rotation.

Customization & Variations

Feel free to experiment with your favorite pasta shape—penne or linguine would work wonderfully here, absorbing the delicious tomato juices beautifully. Adjust the red pepper flakes to your preferred spice level, or omit them entirely for a milder profile. While fresh basil, parsley, or chives are suggested for finishing, don't hesitate to use whatever fresh herbs you have on hand, such as oregano or a mix of Italian herbs. For a different cheesy note, a sprinkle of grated Pecorino Romano could also be delightful, offering a saltier, tangier kick.

Serving & Context

This Burst Tomato Pasta is ideal for a busy weeknight when you need something delicious on the table fast, or even a light, satisfying lunch. Serve it simply on its own, perhaps alongside a crisp green salad to complete the meal.

Frequently Asked Questions