Fresh Tomato Pasta Toss

Elevate your weeknight dinner game with this vibrant and simple Fresh Tomato Pasta Toss, a recipe that brings the taste of summer to your plate in just 25 minutes! This dish combines al dente pasta with juicy cherry tomatoes, fragrant garlic, and a generous splash of extra virgin olive oil, creating a light and flavorful sauce that clings to every strand of spaghetti. Freshly chopped basil and a dusting of nutty Parmesan cheese take this meal to the next level, while the optional kick of red pepper flakes adds a touch of heat. Whether you're looking for a quick and healthy meal or a crowd-pleasing pasta dish, this Mediterranean-inspired recipe is perfect for any occasion. Garnish with extra Parmesan and basil for a beautifully fresh finish that’s as delicious as it is easy!

Nutriscore Rating: 69/100

Prep Time:10 mins

Cook Time:15 mins

Total Time:25 mins

Servings: 4

Ingredients

• 12 oz spaghetti or pasta of choice
• 2 cups fresh cherry tomatoes
• 3 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
• 3 fresh garlic cloves, minced
• 1 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
• 0.5 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
• 0.5 cup Parmesan cheese, freshly grated
• 0 to taste salt
• 0 to taste black pepper

Directions

Step 1

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the spaghetti or pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water, then drain the pasta and set it aside.

Step 2

While the pasta cooks, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.

Step 3

Add the minced garlic to the skillet and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant, being careful not to let it burn.

Step 4

Add the fresh cherry tomatoes to the skillet, stirring occasionally. Cook for about 5-7 minutes until the tomatoes soften and begin to release their juices.

Step 5

Season the tomato mixture with salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using). Stir to combine.

Step 6

Add the cooked pasta to the skillet with the tomatoes. Toss to coat the pasta in the sauce, adding a few tablespoons of reserved pasta water at a time if the mixture seems dry.

Step 7

Stir in the chopped basil and grated Parmesan cheese. Toss everything together until well combined and the cheese is melted.

Step 8

Adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper, if needed. Remove from heat.

Step 9

Serve immediately, garnished with extra Parmesan cheese and fresh basil, if desired.

Nutrition Facts

Serving size	1054.4 grams (1054.4g)

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	1510

Total Fat 79.60g	102%
Saturated Fat 28.00g	140%
Polyunsaturated Fat NaNg
Cholesterol 95mg	32%
Sodium 4192mg	182%
Total Carbohydrate 129.80g	47%
Dietary Fiber 14.90g	53%
Total Sugars 9.80g
Protein 72.80g	146%

Vitamin D 0IU	0%
Calcium 1609mg	124%
Iron 13mg	74%
Potassium 1536mg	33%

*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.

Source of Calories

Fat: 46.9%

Protein: 19.1%

Carbs: 34.0%