Description

Pasta side dishes are the ultimate comfort food, effortlessly blending flavors and aromas that evoke joyful memories. This vibrant pasta dish showcases rotini or fusilli pasta tossed with fresh garlic, cherry tomatoes, and a splash of balsamic vinegar, all enveloped in high-quality olive oil. Topped with freshly grated Parmesan and fragrant basil, it’s a delightful companion alongside any main course or perfect as a light meal on its own.

Ingredients

Scale

8 oz rotini or fusilli pasta
3 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
3 cloves fresh garlic, minced
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1/2 tsp salt
1/4 tsp black pepper
1 tbsp balsamic vinegar
1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped

Instructions

In a large pot of salted water, cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and reserve a bit of cooking water.
In a skillet over medium heat, heat olive oil. Add garlic and cherry tomatoes; sauté until fragrant and softened.
Stir in salt, pepper, and balsamic vinegar; simmer for 3-5 minutes.
Toss in drained pasta with the garlic-tomato mixture. Add reserved cooking water if needed for creaminess.
Remove from heat; stir in Parmesan cheese and basil until well combined.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Category: Side Dish
Method: Sautéing
Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 cup (200g)
Calories: 320
Sugar: 2g
Sodium: 450mg
Fat: 14g
Saturated Fat: 3g
Unsaturated Fat: 10g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 39g
Fiber: 3g
Protein: 10g
Cholesterol: 10mg

Keywords: Customize by adding seasonal vegetables or proteins like grilled chicken. For extra flavor, consider tossing in crushed red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.