When it comes to pasta dishes, few ingredients can elevate the flavor and visual appeal like cherry tomatoes. Sweet, tangy, and bursting with juicy flavor, cherry tomatoes add a pop of color and freshness to any pasta dish. In this collection of 19 flavorful cherry tomato pasta recipes, we’ve got you covered for a quick and easy dinner that’s sure to please even the pickiest eaters.
From classic combinations like garlic butter and creamy basil to bold twists like spicy chili and zesty lemon herb, there’s something for everyone in this roundup. Whether you’re in the mood for a light and refreshing salad or a hearty baked pasta dish, we’ve got the perfect recipe to get your taste buds dancing. So go ahead, grab some cherry tomatoes, and get cooking with these mouthwatering pasta recipes that are sure to become new favorites!
Garlic Butter Cherry Tomato Pasta
This simple yet flavorful pasta dish is a perfect combination of sweet cherry tomatoes, savory garlic butter, and al dente noodles. It’s an ideal weeknight dinner that can be ready in under 30 minutes.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta (e.g., spaghetti or linguine)
– 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
– 4 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tbsp unsalted butter
– 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, melt butter over medium heat. Add garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes or until fragrant.
3. Add cherry tomatoes to the skillet. Cook for 5-7 minutes or until they start to release their juices and soften.
4. Add cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing to combine with tomato-garlic mixture. If needed, add some reserved pasta water to achieve a creamy consistency.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Creamy Basil Cherry Tomato Pasta
This recipe combines the sweetness of cherry tomatoes with the brightness of fresh basil and a rich creamy sauce, all wrapped up in al dente pasta. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta of your choice
– 1 pint cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/4 cup freshly chopped basil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1 tablespoon 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 the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute.
3. Add cherry tomatoes and cook for 3-4 minutes, or until they start to release their juices.
4. Stir in heavy cream and bring to a simmer. Let cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally.
5. Stir in chopped basil and season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Combine cooked pasta and creamy tomato sauce. Top with Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Spicy Cherry Tomato and Chili Pasta
A vibrant and flavorful pasta dish that combines the sweetness of cherry tomatoes with a spicy kick from chili flakes, all wrapped up in a comforting bowl of al dente spaghetti.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz spaghetti
– 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp chili flakes
– 1/2 tsp salt
– 1/4 tsp black pepper
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Fresh basil leaves, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook spaghetti 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, chili flakes, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Cook for 3-4 minutes or until tomatoes release their juices and start to soften.
4. Drain cooked spaghetti and add it to the skillet with tomato mixture. Toss to combine.
5. Sprinkle Parmesan cheese over pasta and toss again to combine.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped basil leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Cherry Tomato and Mozzarella Pasta Salad
This refreshing pasta salad combines the sweetness of cherry tomatoes with the creaminess of mozzarella cheese, perfect for a light and satisfying meal or as a side dish.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta (bowtie or penne)
– 1 pint cherry tomatoes, halved
– 8 oz. 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, mozzarella cheese, olive oil, and vinegar. Toss gently to combine.
3. Add cooked pasta to the bowl and toss again to coat with the tomato-herb mixture.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Garnish with chopped fresh basil leaves if desired.
6. Serve at room temperature or chilled.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Roasted Cherry Tomato and Garlic Pasta
Roasted Cherry Tomato and Garlic Pasta Recipe Summary: This recipe combines the sweetness of cherry tomatoes with the pungency of garlic, all on top of a bed of pasta for a quick and delicious meal.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz pasta of your choice (e.g., spaghetti or linguine)
– 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a bowl, toss cherry tomatoes with minced garlic, olive oil, salt, and pepper.
4. Spread the tomato mixture on a baking sheet and roast in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until the tomatoes release their juices and start to caramelize.
5. Combine cooked pasta and roasted tomato mixture in a serving dish. Toss to combine.
6. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Cherry Tomato and Spinach Pasta Bake
This comforting pasta bake combines sweet cherry tomatoes with fresh spinach, all wrapped up in a creamy sauce and topped with melted mozzarella cheese. Perfect for a quick and easy weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz pasta of your choice
– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 2 cups fresh spinach leaves
– 1/2 cup grated mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
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, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add cherry tomatoes and cook until they release their juices and start to soften (about 5 minutes).
4. Add spinach leaves to the skillet and stir until wilted. Season with garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
5. Combine cooked pasta, tomato-spinach mixture, and mozzarella cheese in a baking dish. Top with Parmesan cheese.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Lemon Herb Cherry Tomato Pasta
Brighten up your pasta dish with this refreshing summer recipe, featuring juicy cherry tomatoes and a zesty lemon herb sauce.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta of your choice (e.g., spaghetti or linguine)
– 1 pint cherry tomatoes, halved
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tbsp. freshly chopped parsley
– 2 tbsp. freshly chopped basil
– 2 tbsp. lemon juice
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. 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. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute, or until fragrant.
3. Add cherry tomatoes and cook for 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they release their juices and start to soften.
4. Stir in lemon juice, parsley, and basil. Cook for an additional minute.
5. Combine cooked pasta, tomato mixture, and reserved pasta water (if needed). Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, topped with Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Cherry Tomato and Ricotta Stuffed Shells
A classic Italian-inspired dish gets a burst of flavor with the addition of sweet cherry tomatoes and creamy ricotta cheese. This comforting casserole is perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 12 jumbo pasta shells
– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 8 oz ricotta cheese
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 egg, beaten
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh basil leaves, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cook pasta shells according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a mixing bowl, combine ricotta cheese, Parmesan cheese, beaten egg, salt, and pepper.
4. Stuff each cooked pasta shell with the ricotta mixture, leaving a small border at the top.
5. Place stuffed shells in a 9×13-inch baking dish, seam-side down.
6. Top shells with cherry tomatoes and chopped basil leaves (if using).
7. Cover with aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes.
8. Remove foil and continue baking for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Cherry Tomato and Sausage Pasta Skillet
Savor the flavors of a hearty one-pot pasta dish with juicy cherry tomatoes and savory sausage, all cooked to perfection in a single skillet!
Ingredients:
– 1 lb. sweet Italian sausage, casings removed
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 12 oz. penne pasta
– 1 pint cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/4 cup chicken broth
– 1 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the sausage and cook until browned, breaking apart with a spoon as it cooks.
3. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic; cook until the onion is translucent.
4. Add the penne pasta, cherry tomatoes, and chicken broth. Stir to combine.
5. Bring to a simmer and cook for 10-12 minutes or until the pasta is al dente.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-18 minutes
Cherry Tomato and Arugula Pasta Toss
This recipe combines the sweetness of cherry tomatoes with the peppery flavor of arugula, creating a simple yet flavorful pasta dish perfect for warm weather.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta of your choice (e.g., spaghetti, linguine)
– 1 pint cherry tomatoes, halved
– 4 cups arugula leaves
– 2 tbsp. olive oil
– 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. 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 to the skillet and cook for 3-4 minutes or until they start to release their juices.
4. Add arugula leaves to the skillet and cook until wilted, about 2-3 minutes.
5. Add cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing everything together with some reserved pasta water if needed. 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 Pesto Pasta
This light and refreshing pasta dish is perfect for warm weather, with the sweetness of cherry tomatoes and the creaminess of pesto sauce. This recipe is quick, easy, and packed with flavor.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta of your choice
– 1 pint cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/4 cup pesto sauce
– 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 cherry tomatoes and cook for 3-4 minutes or until they start to release their juices.
3. Stir in pesto sauce and cook for an additional minute.
4. Drain cooked pasta and add it to the skillet with tomato mixture. Toss to combine.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste. If desired, sprinkle with Parmesan cheese.
6. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Cherry Tomato and Shrimp Scampi Pasta
A classic Italian-inspired dish that combines succulent shrimp, sweet cherry tomatoes, and garlic-infused pasta for a quick and satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz (340g) linguine pasta
– 1 pound (450g) large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 cups (250g) cherry tomatoes, halved
– 4 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons (30ml) unsalted butter
– 2 tablespoons (30ml) white wine (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook linguine pasta according to package instructions until al dente.
2. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium-high heat. Add garlic and sauté for 1 minute.
3. Add shrimp to the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, until pink and cooked through.
4. Add cherry tomatoes to the skillet and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, until they release their juices and start to break down.
5. Stir in white wine (if using) and season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Combine cooked pasta and shrimp mixture. Toss to combine and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Cherry Tomato and Mushroom Pasta
This recipe combines the sweetness of cherry tomatoes with the earthy flavor of mushrooms, all wrapped up in a deliciously simple pasta dish. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a quick lunch.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta (such as pappardelle or fettuccine)
– 1 lb. mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
– 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. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add sliced mushrooms and cook until they release their moisture and start to brown (about 5 minutes).
3. Add halved cherry tomatoes, minced garlic, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally.
4. Combine cooked pasta, mushroom-tomato mixture, and reserved pasta water in a large serving bowl. Toss until well combined.
5. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Cherry Tomato and Olive Pasta Medley
This vibrant pasta dish combines the sweetness of cherry tomatoes with the savory flavor of Kalamata olives, all wrapped up in a Mediterranean-inspired medley. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a summer gathering.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta of your choice (e.g., penne, fusilli)
– 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
– Fresh parsley or basil leaves for garnish (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 cook for 1 minute.
3. Add cherry tomatoes and cook for 3-4 minutes or until they release their juices and start to soften.
4. Stir in Kalamata olives and cook for an additional 2 minutes.
5. Combine cooked pasta with tomato-olive mixture. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Garnish with fresh parsley or basil leaves, if desired.
7. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Cherry Tomato and Balsamic Glaze Pasta
This recipe combines the sweetness of cherry tomatoes with the tanginess of balsamic glaze, creating a flavorful and aromatic pasta dish perfect for a quick weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta (linguine or fettuccine work well)
– 1 pint cherry tomatoes, halved
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup balsamic glaze (homemade or store-bought)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. 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, until fragrant.
3. Add cherry tomatoes to the skillet and cook for 3-4 minutes, until they start to release their juices.
4. Pour in balsamic glaze and stir to combine. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, until the sauce has thickened slightly.
5. Add cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing to coat with the tomato-balsamic mixture. If needed, add some reserved pasta water to achieve desired consistency.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Top with grated Parmesan cheese, if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Cherry Tomato and Zucchini Pasta Stir-Fry
This quick and flavorful pasta dish combines the sweetness of cherry tomatoes with the earthy taste of zucchini, all wrapped up in a savory sauce. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a light lunch.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz pasta (linguine or fettuccine work well)
– 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1 medium zucchini, sliced into 1/4-inch thick rounds
– 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 minute.
3. Add zucchini slices and cook for 3-4 minutes, or until tender.
4. Add cherry tomatoes and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally.
5. Combine cooked pasta with the tomato-zucchini mixture. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, topped with Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Cherry Tomato and Goat Cheese Pasta
A classic combination of flavors and textures, this recipe brings together the sweetness of cherry tomatoes, the creaminess of goat cheese, and the simplicity of pasta for a quick and satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta of your choice (e.g., spaghetti or linguine)
– 1 pint cherry tomatoes, halved
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup goat cheese crumbles
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh basil leaves, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente.
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the garlic and cook for 1 minute, or until fragrant.
3. Add the cherry tomatoes to the skillet and cook for 3-4 minutes, or until they release their juices and start to soften.
4. Stir in the goat cheese crumbles until melted and combined with the tomato mixture.
5. Drain the cooked pasta and add it to the skillet with the tomato-goat cheese sauce. Toss to combine, seasoning with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Garnish with chopped fresh basil leaves, if desired. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Cherry Tomato and Sun-Dried Tomato Pasta
Elevate your pasta game with this simple yet flavorful recipe that combines the sweetness of cherry tomatoes with the savory flavor of sun-dried tomatoes.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta of your choice (e.g., spaghetti, linguine)
– 1 pint cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/4 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
– 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 cook for 1-2 minutes, until fragrant.
3. Add cherry tomatoes and cook for 3-4 minutes, until they release their juices and start to soften.
4. Stir in sun-dried tomatoes and cook for an additional minute.
5. Combine cooked pasta and tomato mixture. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Top with Parmesan cheese (if using) and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Cherry Tomato and Parmesan Pasta Gratin
A creamy and flavorful pasta dish that combines the sweetness of cherry tomatoes with the savory goodness of parmesan cheese.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta (such as penne or fusilli)
– 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh basil leaves, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute.
4. Add cherry tomatoes and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes or until they start to release their juices.
5. In a large baking dish, combine cooked pasta, tomato mixture, Parmesan cheese, and heavy cream. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the top is golden brown and the sauce is bubbly.
7. Sprinkle with chopped fresh basil leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Summary
Get ready to spice up your pasta game with these 19 flavorful cherry tomato recipes! From classic combinations like Garlic Butter Cherry Tomato Pasta and Creamy Basil Cherry Tomato Pasta, to bold twists like Spicy Cherry Tomato and Chili Pasta and Lemon Herb Cherry Tomato Pasta. Whether you’re in the mood for a hearty baked dish or a quick skillet meal, there’s something for everyone. Discover new flavors and ideas to elevate your pasta repertoire and impress your friends and family.
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