Angel Hair Pasta with Cherry Tomatoes and Basil

Name: Angel Hair Pasta with Cherry Tomatoes and Basil
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Yield: 4
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 6 oz Angel Hair Pasta; 2 cups Cherry Tomatoes; 4 sprigs Fresh Basil, torn, divided; 3 clove Garlic, peeled, thinly sliced; 4 tbsp Freshly Grated Parmesan Cheese; 4 tbsp Crumbled Feta Cheese; 2 tbsp Unsalted Butter; 1 tbsp Extra-Virgin Olive Oil; 8 cups Water; Crushed Red Pepper Flakes, as needed; Granulated Sugar, as needed; Salt, to taste; Ground Black Pepper, to taste

A simple and flavorful pasta dish featuring angel hair pasta, cherry tomatoes, fresh basil, and a blend of cheeses.

Step 1

In a skillet, heat the extra-virgin olive oil over medium heat. Once hot, add the cherry tomatoes and roast for about 5 minutes.

Step 2

In a large pot of water, add generous pinches of salt. Bring to a boil, then add the angel hair pasta and cook for 1 minute less than the time on the package directions.

Step 3

To the skillet with tomatoes, add garlic, fresh basil, unsalted butter, crushed red pepper flakes, granulated sugar, salt, and ground black pepper. Stir to combine and cook for 1-2 more minutes to infuse the flavor.

Step 4

Use tongs to transfer the pasta to the skillet. Add Parmesan cheese and crumbled feta cheese. Stir to combine until the cheese is melted.

Step 5

Sprinkle the basil leaves on top. Serve with more Parmesan cheese on top.

Adjust the amount of crushed red pepper flakes to your spice preference.

For a sweeter sauce, add a pinch of sugar to balance the acidity of the tomatoes.

How do I cook angel hair pasta perfectly for my cherry tomato dish?

To cook angel hair pasta perfectly, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook for 1 minute less than the package directions recommend. This ensures the pasta remains al dente and absorbs the flavors of the sauce when combined.

What are some good substitutions for ingredients in angel hair pasta with cherry tomatoes?

If you don't have angel hair pasta, you can substitute it with spaghetti or linguine. For the cheeses, if you prefer a different flavor, you can use goat cheese instead of feta. Additionally, if you're out of fresh basil, dried basil can work in a pinch, but use it sparingly as it's more concentrated.

Is angel hair pasta with cherry tomatoes suitable for a vegetarian diet?

Yes, this angel hair pasta dish is vegetarian-friendly as it contains no meat. The combination of fresh vegetables, herbs, and cheeses makes it a delicious option for those following a vegetarian diet.

How should I store leftovers of angel hair pasta with cherry tomatoes?

To store leftovers, let the pasta cool to room temperature, then transfer it to an airtight container. It can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, add a splash of water or olive oil to prevent it from drying out.

What can I serve with angel hair pasta and cherry tomatoes for a complete meal?

For a complete meal, consider pairing this angel hair pasta with a light salad, such as a mixed greens salad with a lemon vinaigrette. Grilled chicken or shrimp can also complement the dish well if you're looking for added protein.