Boil and Parcook Pasta
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Toss in the pasta and cook it just a little less than the package says—about 5 minutes should do. Before draining, save half a cup of the pasta water for later.
This simple pasta dish brings together sweet cherry tomatoes and perfectly cooked campanelle for a fresh, vibrant meal. It’s quick to make and bursting with flavor, perfect for a cozy weeknight dinner or casual gathering.
COOKBOOK / 29073
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Toss in the pasta and cook it just a little less than the package says—about 5 minutes should do. Before draining, save half a cup of the pasta water for later.
While the pasta cooks, heat some oil in a big skillet over medium-high heat. Add the garlic and cook it until it smells amazing and just starts to brown, which takes about a minute. Then, stir in the cherry tomatoes along with a pinch of kosher salt. Keep things moving in the pan until the tomatoes soften and start to break down, about 3 minutes.
Once the pasta is drained, add it straight to the skillet. Sprinkle on some Parmesan and give everything a good toss so the pasta gets coated in that flavorful sauce. Then, toss in pecorino cheese and fresh basil, mixing everything one more time. If the sauce feels a bit thick, pour in some of the reserved pasta water to loosen it up.
- Cook the pasta just until al dente to maintain a nice bite and prevent it from getting mushy.
- Use ripe cherry tomatoes for the best natural sweetness and flavor.
- Toss the pasta with a little pasta water before adding the sauce to help everything stick together smoothly.
This dish is a perfect blend of fresh, sweet cherry tomatoes and the unique shape of campanelle pasta, which holds onto the sauce beautifully. It’s light, colorful, and full of vibrant flavors that make it a great choice for a quick and satisfying meal.
Serve warm with a sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan cheese and a handful of fresh basil leaves. Pair it with a simple green salad or crusty bread for a complete and refreshing meal.
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently on the stove with a splash of water or olive oil to keep the pasta moist and flavorful.