When it comes to pasta, there’s nothing quite like the flavor combination of cherry tomatoes. Sweet, juicy, and bursting with flavor, these little gems add a pop of color and taste to any dish. In this article, we’ll explore 19 delicious cherry tomato pasta recipes that are sure to become new favorites.
From classic combinations like garlic butter and basil, to more adventurous pairings like shrimp and sausage, there’s something for everyone on this list. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a show-stopping main course, these flavorful dishes are guaranteed to satisfy your cravings. So grab your pasta, cherry tomatoes, and favorite seasonings – it’s time to get cooking!
Garlic Butter Cherry Tomato Pasta
A simple yet flavorful pasta dish that combines the sweetness of cherry tomatoes with the richness of garlic butter and al dente pasta.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta (such as penne or fusilli)
– 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tbsp. unsalted butter
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh basil leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
2. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes, until fragrant.
3. Add cherry tomatoes to the skillet and cook for 3-4 minutes, until they start to release their juices and soften slightly.
4. Add cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing to combine with tomato mixture. If needed, add some reserved pasta water to achieve a creamy consistency.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with fresh basil leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Spicy Cherry Tomato and Basil Pasta
Elevate your pasta game with this vibrant and flavorful recipe that combines the sweetness of cherry tomatoes, the spiciness of red pepper flakes, and the freshness of basil.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta (linguine or fettuccine work well)
– 1 pint cherry tomatoes, halved
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 1 tsp red pepper flakes
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil leaves
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat.
3. Add garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes or until fragrant.
4. Add cherry tomatoes and red pepper flakes; cook for 5-7 minutes or until tomatoes release their juices and start to break down.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Toss cooked pasta with tomato mixture, then top with chopped basil leaves.
7. Serve hot, topped with Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Creamy Cherry Tomato and Spinach Pasta
This recipe combines the sweetness of cherry tomatoes with the earthiness of spinach and the creaminess of a homemade sauce, all wrapped up in a delicious pasta dish. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta of your choice
– 1 pint cherry tomatoes, halved
– 2 cups fresh spinach leaves
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 tbsp butter
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute.
3. Add cherry tomatoes and cook for an additional 3-4 minutes or until they start to release their juices.
4. Stir in spinach leaves and cook until wilted.
5. In a separate saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Pour in heavy cream and bring to a simmer.
6. Combine the tomato-spinach mixture with the creamy sauce. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Toss cooked pasta with the creamy sauce and top with Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Roasted Cherry Tomato and Garlic Pasta
This recipe is a simple yet flavorful way to enjoy pasta on a warm summer evening. The sweetness of the roasted cherry tomatoes pairs perfectly with the pungency of garlic, creating a dish that’s both satisfying and elegant.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz (340g) pasta of your choice
– 2 cups (400g) cherry tomatoes, halved
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup (60ml) olive oil
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese, optional
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Toss cherry tomatoes with olive oil, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet.
3. Roast for 15-20 minutes or until tomatoes are tender.
4. Cook pasta according to package instructions.
5. In a large skillet, sauté minced garlic until fragrant.
6. Combine cooked pasta, roasted cherry tomatoes, and garlic in the skillet.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Top with Parmesan cheese, if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Cherry Tomato and Mozzarella Pasta Salad
Celebrate the flavors of summer with this refreshing Cherry Tomato and Mozzarella Pasta Salad! With its vibrant colors and tangy taste, it’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a potluck gathering.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz pasta of your choice (e.g., bowtie, penne)
– 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1 cup fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced
– 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
– 2 tbsp white wine vinegar
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh basil leaves, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large bowl, combine cherry tomatoes and mozzarella slices.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil and vinegar. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Add the cooked pasta to the bowl with the tomato-mozzarella mixture. Toss gently to combine.
5. Drizzle the dressing over the salad and toss again to coat.
6. Sprinkle chopped basil leaves on top (if using).
7. Serve immediately, or refrigerate for up to 2 hours before serving.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Balsamic Glazed Cherry Tomato Pasta
This quick and flavorful pasta dish is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a summer evening meal. Fresh cherry tomatoes, balsamic glaze, and herbs come together in harmony to create a sweet and savory sauce that coats perfectly cooked pasta.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz pasta of your choice
– 1 pint cherry tomatoes, halved
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup balsamic glaze (or 2 tbsp balsamic vinegar + 1 tsp honey)
– 1 tsp dried basil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes or until fragrant.
3. Add cherry tomatoes to the skillet and cook for 3-4 minutes or until they start to release their juices.
4. Pour in balsamic glaze and stir to combine. Bring the mixture to a simmer and let it reduce slightly, about 2-3 minutes.
5. Stir in dried basil and season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Toss cooked pasta with tomato sauce and top with Parmesan cheese (if using). Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Cherry Tomato and Pesto Pasta
This simple yet flavorful pasta dish combines the sweetness of cherry tomatoes with the creaminess of pesto, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a light summer meal.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta (such as linguine or fettuccine)
– 1 pint cherry tomatoes, halved
– 2 tbsp. freshly made pesto
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, heat the pesto over medium heat. Add the garlic and cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly.
3. Add the cherry tomatoes to the skillet and cook for 3-4 minutes, or until they start to release their juices and soften slightly.
4. Combine the cooked pasta and tomato mixture in the skillet. Toss to combine, seasoning with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Cherry Tomato and Shrimp Pasta
This recipe combines the sweetness of cherry tomatoes with the savory flavor of shrimp, all wrapped up in a delicious pasta dish. Perfect for a quick and easy weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz pasta of your choice
– 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute.
3. Add shrimp to the skillet and cook until pink and just cooked through, about 2-3 minutes per side.
4. Add cherry tomatoes to the skillet and cook until they release their juices and start to break down, about 3-4 minutes.
5. Combine cooked pasta, reserved pasta water, and tomato-shrimp mixture in a large bowl. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Cherry Tomato and Sausage Pasta Bake
This hearty pasta bake is a perfect combination of flavors and textures, featuring sweet cherry tomatoes, savory sausages, and creamy pasta. It’s an easy and satisfying meal for any night of the week.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz (340g) pasta of your choice
– 1 lb (450g) sweet Italian sausage, casings removed
– 2 cups (250g) cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup (250ml) grated mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup (60g) grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Olive oil for cooking
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook pasta according to package instructions; drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, cook sausage over medium-high heat until browned, breaking up with spoon as it cooks.
4. Add cherry tomatoes, onion, and garlic to the skillet and cook for an additional 5 minutes.
5. Combine cooked pasta, sausage mixture, and mozzarella cheese in a baking dish.
6. Top with Parmesan cheese and season with salt and pepper.
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the top is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Cherry Tomato and Olive Pasta
A flavorful and colorful pasta dish that combines the sweetness of cherry tomatoes with the savory taste of Kalamata olives.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta (linguine or fettuccine)
– 1 pint cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/4 cup Kalamata olives, pitted and sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
3. Add cherry tomatoes and cook for 3-4 minutes until they start to release their juices.
4. Add Kalamata olives and stir to combine. Cook for an additional minute.
5. Combine cooked pasta with the tomato-olive mixture. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Cherry Tomato and Ricotta Pasta
A simple yet flavorful pasta dish that combines the sweetness of cherry tomatoes with the creaminess of ricotta cheese.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta (such as penne or fusilli)
– 1 pint cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/2 cup ricotta cheese
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh basil leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the cherry tomatoes and cook for 3-4 minutes or until they release their juices and start to soften.
3. Stir in the ricotta cheese and season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Combine the cooked pasta and tomato-ricotta mixture in a large serving bowl. Toss to coat the pasta evenly.
5. Serve immediately, garnished with fresh basil leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Cherry Tomato and Arugula Pasta
This light and refreshing pasta dish is perfect for a summer evening. The sweetness of the cherry tomatoes pairs perfectly with the peppery flavor of arugula, all tied together with a drizzle of olive oil.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta (such as spaghetti or linguine)
– 1 pint cherry tomatoes, halved
– 4 cups arugula, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
3. Add cherry tomatoes to the skillet and cook for 3-4 minutes until they start to release their juices.
4. Stir in arugula and cook until wilted.
5. Combine cooked pasta, tomato mixture, and salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Cherry Tomato and Zucchini Pasta
This recipe is a perfect blend of flavors and textures, combining the sweetness of cherry tomatoes with the freshness of zucchini, all wrapped up in a delicious pasta dish.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta of your choice (e.g., spaghetti, linguine)
– 1 medium zucchini, sliced
– 1 pint cherry tomatoes, halved
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente.
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add garlic and sauté for 1 minute.
3. Add zucchini slices to the skillet and cook for 3-4 minutes, or until tender. Remove from heat.
4. In the same skillet, add cherry tomatoes and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, or until they start to release their juices.
5. Combine cooked pasta, zucchini mixture, and salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Cherry Tomato and Parmesan Pasta
This recipe brings together the sweetness of cherry tomatoes and the savory flavor of Parmesan cheese on a bed of al dente pasta. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a light lunch.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz pasta (such as spaghetti or linguine)
– 1 lb cherry tomatoes, halved
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh basil leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute.
3. Add cherry tomatoes and cook for 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they release their juices and start to soften.
4. Add reserved pasta water to the skillet and stir to combine with cherry tomatoes.
5. Add cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing everything together to combine.
6. Sprinkle Parmesan cheese over the top and toss again to coat.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Garnish with fresh basil leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Cherry Tomato and Chicken Pasta
This quick and flavorful pasta dish is a perfect combination of juicy chicken, sweet cherry tomatoes, and savory garlic. With only a few ingredients, you can have a delicious meal ready in under 30 minutes.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz pasta of your choice
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add chicken and cook until browned and cooked through, about 5-6 minutes.
3. Add garlic, cherry tomatoes, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes or until tomatoes start to release their juices.
4. Combine cooked pasta, chicken, and tomato mixture in a large serving bowl. Toss with reserved pasta water if needed. Top with Parmesan cheese (if using).
5. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Cherry Tomato and Mushroom Pasta
Savor the sweetness of cherry tomatoes and earthiness of mushrooms in this simple yet satisfying pasta dish. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a quick lunch, this recipe is sure to become a new favorite.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta of your choice (e.g., spaghetti, linguine)
– 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1 cup mixed mushrooms (e.g., button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add garlic and sauté for 1 minute.
3. Add mushrooms and cook until they release their moisture and start to brown (about 5 minutes).
4. Add cherry tomatoes and cook until they pop and release their juices (about 3-4 minutes). Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Combine cooked pasta, mushroom-tomato mixture, and Parmesan cheese (if using). Toss to combine.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Cherry Tomato and Goat Cheese Pasta
This recipe combines the sweetness of cherry tomatoes with the creaminess of goat cheese, all wrapped up in a light and refreshing pasta dish. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a weekend lunch.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz pasta (linguine or fettuccine work well)
– 1 pint cherry tomatoes, halved
– 3 oz goat cheese, crumbled
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh basil leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente.
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute, until fragrant.
3. Add cherry tomatoes to the skillet and cook for 3-4 minutes, until they start to release their juices.
4. Stir in goat cheese until melted and well combined with the tomato mixture.
5. Combine cooked pasta and tomato-goat cheese sauce. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, garnished with fresh basil leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Cherry Tomato and Anchovy Pasta
This recipe combines the sweetness of cherry tomatoes with the salty depth of anchovies, creating a harmonious balance of flavors. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a satisfying lunch.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz pasta of your choice
– 1 pint cherry tomatoes, halved
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 4-6 anchovy fillets, rinsed and chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add anchovy fillets and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they dissolve into the oil.
3. Add cherry tomatoes, garlic, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Cook for an additional 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until tomatoes release their juices.
4. Combine cooked pasta with tomato mixture. Toss to combine.
5. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Cherry Tomato and Artichoke Pasta
This recipe combines the sweetness of cherry tomatoes with the savory flavor of artichokes, all wrapped up in a delicious pasta dish. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta of your choice
– 1 (14 oz.) can artichoke hearts, drained and chopped
– 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tbsp. olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese, optional
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute.
3. Add artichoke hearts and cherry tomatoes to the skillet. Cook for 3-4 minutes or until vegetables are tender.
4. Add cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing to combine with the vegetable mixture. If needed, add some reserved pasta water to achieve desired consistency.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Sprinkle with Parmesan cheese if desired.
6. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Summary
Get ready to indulge in a culinary paradise with these 19 delicious cherry tomato pasta dishes! From classic combinations like garlic butter and basil, to bold and spicy flavors, there’s something for everyone. Try creamy spinach and ricotta, roasted cherry tomatoes with garlic, or add some protein with shrimp or sausage. For a lighter option, opt for a refreshing pasta salad or a Mediterranean-inspired dish featuring artichoke and anchovy. Whether you’re in the mood for comfort food or a quick and easy meal, these recipes will inspire your next culinary adventure.
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