Pasta all'Aglio e Olio with Cherry Tomatoes

An aromatic Italian pasta dish with garlic-infused olive oil and sweet cherry tomatoes, finished with fresh herbs.

Cuisine: Italian

Category: Pasta

Prep: 15 minutes. Cook: 20 minutes.

Serves 4.

Ingredients

• 8 ounces spaghetti
• 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
• 4 cloves, thinly sliced garlic
• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes
• 1 cup, halved cherry tomatoes
• 1/4 cup, chopped fresh parsley
• to taste salt
• to taste black pepper
• 1/2 cup reserved pasta water

Instructions

1. Step 1: Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add 8 ounces of spaghetti and cook for 8-10 minutes until al dente, then drain and reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water.
2. Step 2: Heat 3 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
3. Step 3: Add 4 thinly sliced garlic cloves and 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes, and cook for 2-3 minutes until the garlic is golden but not browned, stirring frequently.
4. Step 4: Add 1 cup of halved cherry tomatoes and cook for 4-5 minutes until they begin to break down and release their juices.
5. Step 5: Add the drained spaghetti to the skillet, then toss with 1/2 cup reserved pasta water and 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley, cooking for 1 minute until the sauce coats the pasta.
6. Step 6: Season with salt and black pepper to taste, then serve immediately.