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Savory Burst Cherry Tomato Pasta with Brown Butter and Basil

Savory Burst Cherry Tomato Pasta - featured image
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A quick and comforting pasta dish featuring blistered cherry tomatoes, nutty brown butter, and fresh basil for a vibrant, flavorful meal ready in under 25 minutes.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 cups (300g) cherry tomatoes, ripe and firm
  • 8 ounces (225g) spaghetti or linguine
  • 6 tablespoons (85g) unsalted butter
  • 1/2 cup (15g) fresh basil leaves, torn by hand
  • 2 cloves garlic, thinly sliced or minced (optional)
  • 1 tablespoon (15ml) olive oil
  • Salt, to taste
  • Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • Pinch of red pepper flakes (optional)
  • Freshly grated Parmesan cheese, for serving (optional)

Instructions

  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add 8 ounces (225g) of spaghetti and cook until al dente, about 8-9 minutes. Reserve 1 cup (240ml) of pasta water before draining.
  2. While pasta cooks, heat 1 tablespoon (15ml) olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add 2 cups (300g) cherry tomatoes and cook, stirring occasionally, until they begin to blister and soften, about 5 minutes.
  3. Add garlic (2 cloves, thinly sliced) to the tomatoes and cook for 1 minute more, being careful not to burn the garlic.
  4. In a separate small pan, melt 6 tablespoons (85g) unsalted butter over medium heat. Stir frequently as it melts and begins to foam. Continue cooking until the butter turns a deep golden brown and smells nutty, about 4-5 minutes. Remove from heat immediately to prevent burning.
  5. Pour the browned butter over the blistered tomatoes and garlic in the skillet. Stir to combine, then add a pinch of red pepper flakes if using. Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
  6. Add the drained pasta to the skillet. Toss gently to coat the strands in the tomato-butter sauce. Add reserved pasta water a few tablespoons at a time if the mixture feels dry to create a silky sauce.
  7. Tear in 1/2 cup (15g) fresh basil leaves. Toss again just before serving to keep the herb’s brightness intact.
  8. Serve immediately. Top with freshly grated Parmesan if desired.

Notes

Keep the heat moderate when browning butter to avoid burning. Blister tomatoes gently to maintain their juicy pop. Add pasta water gradually to achieve a silky sauce. Toss basil in at the last moment to preserve its fresh flavor and color. Use freshly grated Parmesan for best flavor if desired.

Nutrition

Keywords: cherry tomato pasta, brown butter pasta, basil pasta, quick pasta recipe, easy dinner, weeknight meal, savory pasta

Find it online: https://twinkletaste.com/savory-burst-cherry-tomato-pasta-recipe-with-brown-butter-and-basil-easy-homemade/