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Ingredients
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Main Ingredients
Optional Ingredients
Method
Cooking Pasta
- 1
Boil Water
In a large pot, bring salted water to a rolling boil.
- 2
Cook Pasta
Add the pasta to the boiling water and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Typically, this takes about 8-10 minutes.
- 3
Drain Pasta
Once cooked, drain the pasta in a colander and set aside. Reserve a cup of pasta water for later use.
Preparing the Sauce
- 4
Sauté Garlic
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic cloves and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
- 5
Add Tomatoes
Add halved cherry tomatoes to the skillet. Cook for about 5-7 minutes until they start to soften and release their juices.
- 6
Season the Sauce
Add salt, black pepper, and optional red pepper flakes to the tomato mixture. Stir well.
Combining Ingredients
- 7
Mix Pasta with Sauce
Add the drained pasta to the skillet with the sauce. Toss gently to combine, adding reserved pasta water as needed to reach desired consistency.
- 8
Add Basil and Cheese
Remove from heat and stir in fresh basil and grated Parmesan cheese. Mix until cheese is melted and evenly distributed.
- 9
Finish and Serve
Drizzle with lemon juice if desired, and serve hot. Garnish with extra basil and Parmesan cheese on top.
