One-pot Spicy Cherry Tomato & Basil Pasta: Quick and Easy
This One Pot Pasta is a beautiful recipe that proves that creating a delicious, comforting pasta dish can be as effortless as it is satisfying. This cooking method simplifies your life while delivering big on flavour, and it’s a fantastic solution for busy weeknights, last-minute dinner plans, or whenever you’re craving a hearty pasta meal without the hassle of multiple pots and pans. With minimal ingredients and minimal cleanup, the One Pot Pasta is a testament to the beauty of simplicity in the kitchen, promising a delightful, homemade pasta experience with ease.
While this recipe is delightful on its own, a few simple touches can elevate its presentation and taste. Drizzle a bit of extra olive oil over individual servings for a touch of richness. Garnish with extra fresh basil leaves to add a burst of colour and freshness. Serve with a side of crusty bread or a simple green salad for a well-rounded meal
In just 15 minutes, you can have a piping hot, flavourful pasta dish on the table, showcasing the beauty of simplicity and the rich flavours of Mediterranean-inspired cuisine. Enjoy the ease and taste of One Pot Pasta, a true weeknight hero.
Basic Ingredients for One-pot Spicy Cherry Tomato & Basil Pasta
Pasta:
Linguine: The star of the show, linguine, is a classic pasta choice that absorbs the flavours of the dish beautifully.
Cherry Tomatoes: These burst with sweetness and acidity, lending a vibrant and refreshing element.
Red Onions: Sliced thinly, they add a mild, sweet onion flavour and a hint of colour.
Garlic: Thinly sliced garlic infuses the dish with a delightful aromatic depth.
Red Pepper Flakes: For a subtle kick of heat and added flavour dimension.
Basil: Fragrant basil leaves impart a fresh, herbaceous note.
Olive Oil: Used for cooking and drizzling, it brings richness and a touch of Mediterranean flavour.
Coarse Salt and Freshly Ground Pepper: Essential for seasoning the pasta and enhancing the overall taste.
alternative ingredients
Feel free to customize this dish to your preferences:
- Experiment with different pasta shapes, like penne or spaghetti.
- Swap cherry tomatoes for canned diced tomatoes or sun-dried tomatoes.
- Use yellow or white onions if that’s what you have on hand.
- Adjust the level of heat by increasing or reducing the red pepper flakes.
Preparation Tips for One-pot Spicy Cherry Tomato & Basil Pasta
- Make sure to keep the pasta, tomatoes, onions, and garlic thinly sliced for even cooking.
- Use a large enough pot to accommodate all the ingredients comfortably.
- Stirring and tossing the pasta regularly is key to ensuring it cooks evenly.
Serving Tips for One-pot Spicy Cherry Tomato & Basil Pasta
- Serve the One Pot Pasta straight from the pan for a cosy, rustic presentation.
- A sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan cheese on top of each serving adds a delightful cheesy finish.
storage tips
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for a day or two. Reheat gently on the stove with a splash of water.
One-Pot Spicy Tomato & Basil Pasta (Full Video)
One-pot Spicy Cherry Tomato & Basil Pasta
Ingredients
- 375 g linguine
- 2 cups cherry tomato, halves
- 4 cloves garlic, thinly sliced
- ½ tsp red pepper flakes, adjust to taste
- 2 sprigs basil, plus extra leaves for garnish
- 2 tbsp olive oil, plus more for serving
- coarse salt
- freshly ground pepper
- freshly grated parmesan cheese, for serving
Instructions
- In a large pot, combine linguine, cherry tomatoes, red onions, garlic, red pepper flakes, basil sprigs, 2 teaspoons of salt, and ¼ teaspoon of pepper.
- Pour in 4 ½ cups of water to the pot, ensuring that the ingredients are well-submerged.
- Place the pot over high heat and bring the liquid to a boil.
- Once boiling, use tongs to toss and flip the pasta regularly. Continue cooking for about 9-12 minutes or until the pasta is al dente, and most of the water has evaporated.
- Taste and adjust the salt and pepper as per your preference.
- Remove the pot from heat, garnish with fresh basil leaves, and drizzle with a bit of olive oil.
- Serve hot, topped with freshly grated Parmesan cheese.
Did you make this recipe?
Tag @cookingwithzahra on Instagram and hashtag it #cookingwithzahra so we can see all the deliciousness!