Herbed Penne with Cherry Tomatoes

Name: Herbed Penne with Cherry Tomatoes
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 25 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 300g penne pasta; 200g cherry tomatoes, halved; 3 tablespoons olive oil; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tablespoon fresh basil, chopped; 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped; Salt and pepper to taste; Parmesan cheese, for serving

Highlighted under: Light & Fresh

I absolutely love making Herbed Penne with Cherry Tomatoes during the summer months when tomatoes are at their juiciest. The vibrant colors and fresh herbs transform a simple pasta dish into something special. This recipe is not only quick but also packed with flavor, thanks to the combination of garlic, basil, and juicy cherry tomatoes. It’s the perfect meal to enjoy on a warm evening, paired with a side salad and a glass of chilled white wine.

Created by

Lara

Last updated on 2026-02-12T18:46:19.375Z

Creating this Herbed Penne with Cherry Tomatoes has become a favorite weekend ritual for me. I love to visit the local farmer's market and pick the ripest tomatoes and freshest herbs available. The combination of these ingredients is truly what makes this dish shine. I’ve learned that using a high-quality olive oil to enhance the flavors elevates the whole experience.

One specific tip I've picked up is to reserve a bit of pasta water to toss with the sauce at the end. It adds a perfect silkiness to the dish and helps everything come together. Whether it’s a quick dinner or a gathering with friends, this recipe never fails to impress!

Why You Will Love This Recipe
The freshness of cherry tomatoes bursting with flavor.
Herbs that add a delightful aroma and taste.
Quick and easy to prepare, perfect for any night.

Key Techniques for Perfect Pasta

When cooking the penne pasta, it's essential to maintain a rolling boil in the pot for the entire duration. This ensures that the pasta cooks evenly and prevents it from becoming sticky. Stir occasionally to avoid clumping, especially in the first few minutes. Cooking until al dente will enhance the overall texture of the dish, creating a delightful contrast with the juicy cherry tomatoes.

Another tip for cooking pasta is to reserve some pasta water before draining. This starchy liquid can be added later to help emulsify the dish, giving it a richer, creamier texture. The reserved water is especially helpful if the finished dish seems too dry. A splash can make all the difference, creating a velvety finish that clings beautifully to the pasta.

Enhancing Flavor with Fresh Ingredients

Using fresh herbs such as basil and parsley not only elevates the dish but brings a bright, vibrant flavor profile that dried herbs simply cannot match. If fresh herbs are unavailable, you could use dried basil; however, start with half the amount since dried herbs are more potent. Adding fresh herbs towards the end of cooking preserves their aromatic qualities, ensuring maximum flavor impact.

The cherry tomatoes are the star of this recipe. When choosing tomatoes, opt for those that are bright red and firm to the touch. If you can, pick heirloom varieties for added flavor complexity. Roasting the cherry tomatoes instead of merely sautéing can also be an alternative; this method caramelizes their natural sugars, enhancing sweetness and adding a delightful depth of flavor.

Ingredients

For the Pasta

300g penne pasta
200g cherry tomatoes, halved
3 tablespoons olive oil
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon fresh basil, chopped
1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
Salt and pepper to taste
Parmesan cheese, for serving

Mix and enjoy!

Instructions

Cook the Pasta

In a large pot of boiling salted water, cook the penne according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving a little pasta water.

Sauté the Garlic

In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute.

Combine Ingredients

Add the halved cherry tomatoes to the skillet, cooking for about 3-4 minutes until they start to soften. Toss in the cooked penne, fresh herbs, salt, and pepper.

Finish and Serve

If the pasta appears dry, add a splash of reserved pasta water. Serve warm with grated Parmesan cheese on top.

Enjoy your delicious heaped plate of Herbed Penne!

Pro Tips

For an added twist, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes for some heat. You can also substitute the herbs based on your preference, like trying tarragon or thyme for a different flavor profile.

Serving Suggestions

This Herbed Penne with Cherry Tomatoes pairs wonderfully with a crisp side salad, perhaps featuring arugula or spinach tossed lightly in a lemon vinaigrette. This combination not only complements the flavors of the pasta but also adds a refreshing balance to the meal. Consider including slices of fresh mozzarella or avocado for added textures and flavors.

For a protein-packed addition, grilled chicken or shrimp can be served atop the pasta, elevating it to a heartier meal. Simply season them with a bit of olive oil, salt, and pepper, and grill until cooked through. This turns your summer dish into a complete and satisfying entrée.

Storage and Reheating Tips

If you have leftovers, store the Herbed Penne in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. However, be aware that the pasta may absorb the sauce juices, so it might be a bit drier when reheated. To combat this, you can add a splash of olive oil or a bit of reserved pasta water while reheating it in a skillet over low heat, stirring until warmed through.

For longer storage, consider freezing individual portions. To freeze, place the cooled pasta in freezer-safe containers, separating layers with parchment paper to prevent sticking. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating, and make sure to refresh the flavors by adding fresh herbs or an extra squeeze of lemon juice just before serving.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use regular tomatoes instead of cherry tomatoes?

Yes, but cherry tomatoes provide a sweeter flavor and are more convenient to prepare.

→ Is this recipe suitable for vegetarians?

Absolutely! It is completely meat-free and vegetarian-friendly.

→ Can I make this pasta dish ahead of time?

While it's best served fresh, you can prepare the sauce and store it separately. Just reheat and mix with the pasta when ready to serve.

→ What can I serve with this dish?

A light salad or garlic bread works beautifully as side dishes to complement the pasta.