What's the Difference between grape and cherry tomatoes:

While grape and cherry tomatoes are similar in size and shape, they differ. Grape tomatoes are generally more elongated and oblong in shape, resembling a grape, hence the name. Cherry tomatoes are typically rounder and smaller. Taste-wise, they are quite similar, with both being sweet and flavorful. However, some may find cherry tomatoes slightly sweeter than grape tomatoes. In terms of culinary usage, they are interchangeable in most recipes.

What type of pasta is best?

You can use any pasta you prefer or have on hand. Popular options include spaghetti, penne, fusilli, or even whole wheat or gluten-free varieties for dietary preferences. Choose a pasta shape you enjoy that will hold the sauce well. For example, shapes with nooks and crannies, like penne or fusilli, can catch and hold the sauce effectively.

Can I make This Sauce ahead of time?

Yes, you can make this burst cherry tomato pasta sauce ahead of time. Once the sauce has cooled, transfer it to an airtight container and store it in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. When ready to serve, reheat the sauce gently on the stove. If the sauce has thickened during storage, add a splash of water or broth to loosen it up to your desired consistency.

Easy Burst Cherry Tomato Pasta Sauce Recipe (Quick!)

Name: Easy Burst Cherry Tomato Pasta Recipe
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 20 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 1 lb. pasta of your choice; Kosher salt; ½ cup olive oil; 2 large garlic cloves, finely chopped; 3 pints cherry tomatoes; ½ tsp. freshly ground black pepper; Pinch of sugar (if needed); 1 cup fresh basil, coarsely chopped; ½ teaspoon crushed red pepper; Freshly grated Parmigiano cheese or Pecorino cheese (for serving); Large Sauce Pan; Large Pot for Boiling Pasta

Description

Easy Burst Cherry Tomato Pasta Sauce Recipe (Quick!)- a bright-tasting meal that comes together in 20 minutes! This burst cherry tomato pasta sauce recipe is a winner for its simplicity, freshness, and deliciousness. It’s a dish that you’ll want to make again and again! Mangia!

Ingredients

Units Scale

1 lb. pasta of your choice
Kosher salt
1/2 cup olive oil
2 large garlic cloves, finely chopped
3 pints cherry tomatoes
1/2 tsp. freshly ground black pepper
Pinch of sugar (if needed)
1 cup fresh basil, coarsely chopped
1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper
Freshly grated Parmigiano cheese or Pecorino cheese (for serving)

EQUIPMENT

Large Sauce Pan

Large Pot for Boiling Pasta

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Instructions

Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Reserve about 1 cup of pasta water before draining the pasta. Set aside.
Prepare the Sauce: While the pasta is cooking, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the finely chopped garlic and cook until fragrant, about 1 minute. Add the cherry tomatoes to the skillet. Use a fork or the back of a wooden spoon to press down on the tomatoes to burst them gently. Season with kosher salt, freshly ground black pepper, and a pinch of sugar (if the sauce is a bit acidic). Stir well to combine.
Cook the tomatoes until they soften and release their juices, about 5-7 minutes.
Stir in the crushed red pepper for some heat. Taste and adjust the seasoning if needed.
Combine the Sauce and Pasta: Add the cooked pasta to the skillet with the tomato sauce. Toss well to coat the pasta evenly with the sauce. If the sauce seems too thick, add some of the reserved pasta water a little at a time until you reach your desired consistency.
Serve: Remove the skillet from the heat and stir in the coarsely chopped fresh basil.
Serve the pasta hot, topped with freshly grated Parmigiano cheese or Pecorino cheese. Garnish with additional fresh basil leaves if desired.

Enjoy your burst cherry tomato pasta!

Prep Time: 5 min
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Category: Savory
Method: Italian
Cuisine: Italian