Penne Tossed in Cherry Tomato Basil Sauce
Al dente penne pasta coated in a fresh, lightly simmered cherry tomato and basil sauce with a hint of garlic and olive oil. This italian-inspired pasta (vegetarian) ready in about 25 minutes blends penne pasta, halved cherry tomatoes, extra virgin olive oil into a versatile sauce that lifts everything from grain bowls and roasted vegetables to grilled proteins — a small-batch staple worth keeping in the fridge. Each serving lands at about 420 calories and feeds 4, so a small batch covers several meals across the week without taking over the fridge. Tap "Plan a meal with the AI" below to drop this recipe into your week and send the ingredients straight to Instacart. Nutrition values are approximate, calculated from USDA FoodData Central (fdc.nal.usda.gov) — verify against ingredient labels for any health-driven dietary plan.
Ingredients
- 12 oz penne pasta
- 2 cups, halved cherry tomatoes
- 3 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
- 4 cloves, thinly sliced garlic cloves
- 1/2 cup, chopped fresh basil leaves
- 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes
- 1 tsp, divided salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 cup, grated parmesan cheese
Instructions
- Step 1: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add 12 oz penne pasta and cook for 10-12 minutes until al dente. Drain, reserving 1/2 cup pasta water.
- Step 2: While pasta cooks, heat 3 tbsp extra virgin olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add 4 thinly sliced garlic cloves and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant but not browned.
- Step 3: Add 2 cups halved cherry tomatoes, 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes, 1/2 tsp salt, and 1/2 tsp black pepper. Cook, stirring occasionally, until tomatoes soften and release juices, about 5 minutes.
- Step 4: Stir in 1/2 cup chopped fresh basil and pour in reserved 1/2 cup pasta water. Simmer sauce for 2 minutes until slightly thickened.
- Step 5: Add drained penne pasta to the skillet and toss thoroughly to coat in sauce.
- Step 6: Remove from heat and sprinkle 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese over the pasta. Toss again until cheese melts and clings to the noodles. Serve warm.
Frequently asked questions
How long does Penne Tossed in Cherry Tomato Basil Sauce take to make?
Total time is about 25 minutes (10 min prep + 15 min cook). A small batch typically covers several meals in the week — store as the recipe directs.
How do I store leftover Penne Tossed in Cherry Tomato Basil Sauce?
Transfer to an airtight jar and refrigerate for up to 5–7 days. Most sauces freeze well for up to 2 months — portion into small containers or freezer bags so you can thaw only what you need. Stir before serving; cream- or yogurt-based sauces may separate on standing.
Can I substitute ingredients in Penne Tossed in Cherry Tomato Basil Sauce?
Yes — most ingredients in this recipe have flexible swaps. For oil, use any neutral high-smoke-point oil (avocado, grapeseed, refined coconut). For aromatics, dried herbs at ⅓ the volume of fresh work in a pinch. The full ingredient list is shoppable on Instacart so you can see substitutes in real time.
How do I scale Penne Tossed in Cherry Tomato Basil Sauce for a different number of people?
The recipe is written for 4 servings. Multiply each ingredient by (your serving target / 4). Cook time stays roughly the same up to 2x; for 3-4x batches, switch from a skillet to a sheet pan or stockpot so the food isn't crowded — overcrowding steams instead of browns.
Is Penne Tossed in Cherry Tomato Basil Sauce vegetarian?
Yes — this recipe is tagged vegetarian based on its ingredient list. Always cross-check labels for packaged ingredients (sauces, broths, condiments) since formulations vary by brand.
What others are saying
- ★★★★★
The cherry tomatoes gave a wonderful sweet-tart flavor. My new favorite pasta!
- ★★★★★
My kids loved it, and it was ready in 20 minutes. Perfect for busy weeknights.
- ★★★★★
So easy and flavorful, I'll make it again this week.
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