If you’re craving a vibrant, refreshing pasta dish that bursts with flavor and texture, you’ve just found your new favorite. This Juicy Penne Pasta with Cherry Tomatoes and Basil Recipe delivers tender pasta bathed in a luscious sauce made from sweet cherry tomatoes, fragrant garlic, and fresh basil. It’s comfort food elevated with simplicity, where every bite sings with brightness and the essence of summer. Whether it’s a quick weeknight dinner or a delightful meal for friends, this recipe never fails to impress with its balance of juiciness, creaminess, and herbaceous notes.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering a handful of simple, fresh ingredients is all you need to transform ordinary pasta into a dish that feels effortlessly gourmet. Each component plays a unique part — from the silky butter and robust olive oil that create the rich sauce base, to the sweet burst of cherry tomatoes and aromatic punch of basil that brighten every forkful.
- 1 lb penne pasta: The perfect shape to capture the juicy tomato sauce in every bite.
- 2 tbsp olive oil: Adds a fruity, peppery richness that complements the butter beautifully.
- 6 tbsp butter: Creates a luxurious, creamy base for the tomato sauce to meld with the pasta.
- 2 garlic cloves, thinly sliced: Infuses the sauce with savory depth and aromatic warmth.
- 3 pints (2 1/4 lbs) sweet cherry or grape tomatoes: They burst open while cooking, releasing juicy sweetness that’s key to the dish.
- Ground Parmesan cheese, to taste: Adds a salty, nutty finish that ties everything together perfectly.
- Large handful of fresh basil leaves: Brings a fragrant, bright herbal note that lifts the entire recipe.
- Salt & pepper: Essential for bringing out every flavor in the sauce and pasta.
How to Make Juicy Penne Pasta with Cherry Tomatoes and Basil Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Penne Pasta
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. The salt seasons the pasta itself and enhances all the flavors later on. Cook the penne according to the package instructions until it’s perfectly al dente, tender but with a slight bite. Do not drain the pasta; you’ll use this starchy water to enliven the sauce.
Step 2: Prepare the Tomatoes
While the pasta is cooking, halve your cherry tomatoes. This step is key because halving them helps release all that beautiful juice during cooking, which forms the heart of the sauce. Set the tomatoes aside and get ready to let the magic happen!
Step 3: Sauté the Garlic
Heat a large skillet over medium heat and combine the butter and olive oil until the butter melts. Add the thinly sliced garlic and cook for just 30 seconds, until fragrant but not browned—this little bit of garlic sets the fragrant foundation for the sauce.
Step 4: Simmer Tomatoes into Sauce
In goes the halved tomatoes, along with a pinch of salt and freshly ground pepper. Let them simmer gently, stirring occasionally, until they soften and release their juices, thickening the sauce slightly—this usually takes 5 to 7 minutes. This is the moment when the vibrant red sauce really comes alive. Stir in a generous handful of grated Parmesan cheese and mix well to marry all the flavors.
Step 5: Combine Pasta and Sauce
By now, your pasta should be ready. Scoop it out of the water with a fine mesh strainer and add it directly to the simmering pan with sauce. Those few drops of starchy pasta water clinging to the noodles will help loosen the sauce as you stir, ensuring each penne is coated in juicy, flavorful perfection.
Step 6: Add the Fresh Basil
Fresh basil brings that unmistakable pop of herbal brightness. Slice it into thin ribbons or tear the leaves by hand, then fold it gently into the pasta. The residual heat releases basil’s fragrant oils, complementing the sweet tomatoes and buttery sauce beautifully.
Step 7: Final Seasoning Check
Always taste and adjust salt and pepper at this stage. The right seasoning balance makes all the difference, allowing every element to shine together perfectly.
Step 8: Serve with Flair
Divide the saucy, juicy penne into bowls and finish with an extra sprinkle of Parmesan, a crack of fresh black pepper, and a drizzle of olive oil. This simple final touch elevates the richness and makes every bite simply irresistible.
How to Serve Juicy Penne Pasta with Cherry Tomatoes and Basil Recipe
Garnishes
Beyond Parmesan and pepper, garnishing with whole basil leaves, a squeeze of fresh lemon juice, or even toasted pine nuts can add exciting dimensions. They add color, crunch, and an extra herbaceous note that make the presentation and flavors even more inviting.
Side Dishes
This pasta pairs wonderfully with crisp green salads, garlic bread for mopping up sauce, or roasted vegetables like asparagus or zucchini. These sides keep the meal balanced and bring delightful textures and flavors to the table.
Creative Ways to Present
Try serving this dish family-style in a large, rustic bowl for a convivial dinner, or plate it elegantly with a sprig of basil and a small Parmesan shaving stack for intimate occasions. You can also stuff the pasta into oven-safe ramekins, top with cheese, and lightly broil for a bubbly finish that turns the classic Juicy Penne Pasta with Cherry Tomatoes and Basil Recipe into a fun twist.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The pasta will continue to soak up the sauce, so it might thicken overnight; just add a splash of water or olive oil when reheating to restore that juicy texture.
Freezing
While fresh basil doesn’t freeze well, you can freeze the pasta with tomatoes and sauce for up to a month. Freeze in a tightly sealed container, leaving some headspace. Defrost overnight in the fridge before reheating for best results.
Reheating
Reheat gently over low heat on the stovetop, stirring frequently and adding a little reserved pasta water or olive oil to bring back the sauce’s silky consistency. Microwaving works too but be sure to stir halfway through for even warmth.
FAQs
Can I use other types of pasta besides penne?
Absolutely! While penne is perfect for holding the sauce, you can substitute with rigatoni, fusilli, or even spaghetti depending on your preference — just adjust cooking times accordingly.
Is it okay to use dried basil instead of fresh?
Fresh basil delivers the best aroma and flavor for this recipe, but if you only have dried, add it during cooking to allow its flavor to bloom. Keep in mind that dried basil is less vibrant than fresh.
Can I make this dish vegan?
Yes! Swap butter for plant-based margarine or extra olive oil, and use a vegan Parmesan substitute or nutritional yeast for that cheesy flavor. The juicy tomatoes and basil will still shine deliciously.
How do I prevent overcooking the garlic?
Keep the garlic cooking time short — about 30 seconds to one minute — over medium heat and watch carefully. Garlic burns quickly and will turn bitter, so as soon as it’s fragrant, add the tomatoes promptly.
Why should I not drain the pasta water fully?
The pasta water contains starch that helps bind the sauce and pasta together, creating a silkier, more cohesive dish. Adding a little water while mixing prevents the sauce from becoming too thick or clumpy.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly heartwarming about making and sharing this Juicy Penne Pasta with Cherry Tomatoes and Basil Recipe. Its simplicity is its charm, transforming everyday ingredients into a vibrant, juicy feast that feels like a warm hug on a plate. I wholeheartedly encourage you to dive into this recipe and enjoy the bright, fresh flavors that celebrate the joys of good food and good company.
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Juicy Penne Pasta with Cherry Tomatoes and Basil Recipe
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Juicy Penne Pasta with Cherry Tomatoes and Basil is a fresh and flavorful Italian-inspired dish that combines perfectly cooked penne with a rich, buttery tomato sauce, infused with garlic and fresh basil. The cherry tomatoes are gently simmered until juicy and tender, complementing the pasta with a burst of natural sweetness and a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese for a comforting yet light meal, perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
Pasta
- 1 lb penne pasta
Sauce & Seasoning
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 6 tbsp butter
- 2 garlic cloves, thinly sliced
- 3 pints (2 1/4 lbs) sweet cherry or grape tomatoes
- Salt & pepper, to taste
- Ground Parmesan cheese, to taste
- Large handful of fresh basil leaves
Instructions
- Boil Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Cook the penne pasta according to the package instructions until al dente, usually about 11-13 minutes. Do not drain the pasta after cooking.
- Prepare Tomatoes: While the pasta cooks, halve the cherry tomatoes and set them aside to be added later in the sauce.
- Sauté Garlic: In a large skillet, melt the butter and olive oil over medium heat. Add the thinly sliced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds, until fragrant but not browned.
- Cook Tomatoes: Add the halved cherry tomatoes to the skillet. Season with salt and pepper. Simmer gently, stirring occasionally, for 5-7 minutes until the tomatoes release their juices and the sauce thickens slightly. During this time, thinly slice the fresh basil into ribbons.
- Add Cheese: Stir in a handful of ground Parmesan cheese to the tomato sauce, mixing well to combine the flavors.
- Combine Pasta and Sauce: Using a fine mesh strainer, lift the cooked pasta directly from the boiling water and add it to the tomato sauce in the skillet. It’s fine if some pasta water clings, as it helps to loosen the sauce if necessary. Stir thoroughly to coat the pasta evenly.
- Add Basil: Toss in the sliced basil leaves and stir to distribute the fresh herbs throughout the pasta.
- Final Seasoning and Serve: Taste the pasta and add more salt and pepper if needed. Portion the pasta into serving bowls and garnish each with extra Parmesan cheese, a sprinkle of black pepper, and a drizzle of olive oil for added richness and flavor.
Notes
- Do not drain the pasta completely; some pasta water helps loosen the sauce and improve texture.
- For stronger garlic flavor, increase garlic slices or lightly brown them, but be careful not to burn.
- Using fresh cherry tomatoes is best, but canned cherry tomatoes can be substituted if out of season.
- Fresh basil is key to the dish’s flavor; add it just before serving to maintain its vibrant taste.
- Adjust butter and olive oil quantities for a lighter or richer sauce according to preference.
