Description
A vibrant and flavorful Cherry Tomato Pasta Sauce made with fresh cherry tomatoes, garlic, and Italian diced tomatoes, simmered to perfection and tossed with penne pasta for a comforting Italian-inspired meal. Garnished with fresh basil and optional Parmesan cheese for an added touch of richness.
Ingredients
Scale
For the Pasta
- 16 ounces dry penne pasta
For the Sauce
- 2 tablespoons salted butter (¼ stick)
- 2 teaspoons minced garlic
- 10 ounces cherry tomatoes, washed and halved (1 container)
- 14.5 ounces Italian style petite diced tomatoes (1 can)
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 1 tablespoon cold water
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh basil (plus more for garnish)
- Freshly grated Parmesan cheese (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
- Cook Pasta: Cook the penne pasta al dente according to the package directions, then strain and set it aside.
- Melt Butter and Add Garlic: While the pasta cooks, melt the salted butter in a large skillet over medium heat and add the minced garlic.
- Sauté Garlic: Cook the garlic for 1-2 minutes until it is fragrant but not browned, ensuring it infuses the butter.
- Add Cherry Tomatoes: Add the halved cherry tomatoes to the skillet and cook for 4-5 minutes until they soften and begin to char slightly, releasing their juices.
- Add Diced Tomatoes and Simmer: Pour in the canned petite diced tomatoes, stir well, and bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat.
- Prepare Cornstarch Slurry: In a small bowl, whisk together the cornstarch and cold water until smooth.
- Thicken the Sauce: After simmering the sauce for 4-5 minutes, slowly whisk the cornstarch mixture into the sauce to thicken it.
- Add Basil and Boil: Stir in the chopped fresh basil, allow the sauce to come to a boil again, and cook for 1 minute to fully blend flavors.
- Combine Pasta and Sauce: Remove the pan from heat and add the cooked pasta to the sauce.
- Toss and Serve: Gently toss the pasta in the sauce until well coated and serve hot, garnished with additional basil and freshly grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Notes
- Use fresh cherry tomatoes for the best vibrant flavor and slight sweetness.
- Make sure not to overcook the garlic to avoid bitterness.
- The cornstarch slurry helps thicken the sauce without altering the flavor.
- Parmesan cheese is optional but highly recommended for extra richness.
- Adjust the amount of garlic and basil to your taste preference.
