Spaghetti Tossed with Cherry Tomatoes Sautéed in Garlic-Infused Butter

Deliciously Simple Spaghetti with Burst Tomatoes

Get ready to indulge in a vibrant and flavorful pasta dish that combines the rich taste of garlic and golden tomatoes with the heartiness of spaghetti. This recipe is perfect for a cozy dinner or a delightful gathering with friends!

Cooking Time

Total Time: 30 minutes

Ingredients

• 1 pound uncooked spaghetti
• 6 tablespoons salted butter
• 6 garlic cloves, thinly sliced
• 2 pounds mixed red and yellow cherry tomatoes (approximately 6 cups)
• 1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil (optional)
• Kosher salt, to taste
• 1 cup chopped fresh basil
• Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving
• Crushed red pepper, to taste

Cooking Instructions

Start by bringing a generous pot of salted water to a rolling boil over high heat. Once boiling, add the spaghetti and cook until it reaches that perfect 'al dente' texture, following the instructions on the package. Once done, drain the pasta, ensuring to reserve about 1 cup of the cooking water for later.

While your spaghetti cooks, melt the butter in a large, high-sided skillet set over a medium flame. Toss in the sliced garlic, and stir frequently until the garlic starts to turn a golden-brown color, which should take about a minute. Use a slotted spoon to lift the garlic from the skillet and place it in a small bowl.

In the same skillet, add the cherry tomatoes. Lower the heat to a gentle simmer and stir occasionally, allowing the tomatoes to soften and burst, roughly 20 minutes. If you notice the mixture getting too dry, add a splash of extra-virgin olive oil. Once the tomatoes are ready, incorporate the previously browned garlic back into the skillet and season with kosher salt to your taste. Remove from heat.

Now, it's time to marry the pasta with the sauce! Transfer the drained spaghetti into the skillet with the bursting tomatoes. Toss everything together, adding the reserved cooking water in increments of 1/4 cup until you achieve a silky sauce that clings beautifully to the pasta. Finish off with a generous sprinkle of fresh basil and serve hot, topped with freshly grated Parmesan cheese and a sprinkle of crushed red pepper for an added kick.