This tomato and herb pasta is a light and flavorful dish made with ripe cherry tomatoes, garlic, olive oil, and fresh herbs tossed with al dente pasta. It’s an easy weeknight dinner that celebrates simple ingredients at their best.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick and easy: Ready in under 30 minutes with minimal prep.
Fresh and light: Perfect for warm-weather meals or meatless nights.
Customizable: Add cheese, protein, or more vegetables as desired.
Delicious hot or cold: Serve as a main course or pasta salad.

ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

Pasta (spaghetti, linguine, or penne)
Cherry or grape tomatoes, halved
Garlic cloves, thinly sliced
Olive oil
Fresh basil or parsley, chopped
Salt and black pepper
Red pepper flakes (optional)
Parmesan cheese (optional)

directions

Cook the pasta: Boil pasta in salted water until al dente. Reserve ½ cup of pasta water, then drain.
Sauté garlic: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add sliced garlic and red pepper flakes (if using), and cook until fragrant—about 1–2 minutes.
Add tomatoes: Stir in halved tomatoes. Season with salt and pepper. Cook for 5–7 minutes, until the tomatoes begin to soften and release juices.
Combine pasta and sauce: Add the cooked pasta to the skillet. Toss to coat, adding reserved pasta water as needed to create a silky sauce.
Finish with herbs: Stir in fresh basil or parsley. Top with Parmesan if desired.
Serve: Serve immediately with extra herbs and cheese on top.

Servings and timing

Servings: 4
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 15 minutes
Total time: 25 minutes

storage/reheating

Storage: Store leftovers in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Reheating: Gently reheat in a skillet with a splash of water or olive oil. Can also be served cold as a pasta salad.

FAQs

Can I use canned tomatoes?

Yes, but drain them slightly or choose fire-roasted cherry tomatoes for better flavor.

What pasta shape works best?

Spaghetti, linguine, or penne all work well. Short pasta holds more sauce, while long pasta offers classic presentation.

Can I add protein?

Yes, grilled chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas are great options.

How do I make it spicier?

Add more red pepper flakes or stir in a spoonful of chili oil before serving.

Is this dish vegan?

Yes, just skip the Parmesan or use a plant-based alternative.

Can I add more vegetables?

Absolutely. Zucchini, spinach, or mushrooms pair nicely.

How do I avoid soggy pasta?

Cook the pasta al dente and don’t over-simmer in the sauce.

Can I make it ahead of time?

Yes, it’s great for meal prep. Store it cold and enjoy as a pasta salad or reheat.

What herbs are best?

Basil is classic, but parsley, oregano, or thyme also work beautifully.

Can I use flavored oil?

Yes, garlic-infused or chili olive oil will enhance the flavor.

Conclusion

This Tomato and Herb Pasta is a timeless and effortless dish that highlights the beauty of fresh, simple ingredients. With juicy tomatoes, aromatic herbs, and a touch of olive oil, it’s a perfect meal when you want something light, fast, and delicious.