Easy Pasta with Cherry Tomato & XO Sauce Recipe

If you’re craving a dish that combines fresh, bright flavors with an irresistibly savory twist, this Pasta with Cherry Tomato & XO Sauce is exactly what you need. This recipe takes simple ingredients you likely have on hand and turns them into a mouthwatering meal that’s perfect for both quick weeknight dinners and relaxed gatherings with friends. The juicy burst of cherry tomatoes pairs beautifully with the rich, umami-packed XO sauce, creating a pasta dish that’s both elegant and comforting. Let’s dive into why this flavorful meal deserves a spot on your menu tonight!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: Ready in under 30 minutes, this dish is perfect for busy nights or last-minute dinner plans.
• Bursting with Flavor: The combination of fresh cherry tomatoes and rich XO sauce packs a savory punch that keeps every bite exciting.
• Versatile: It easily adapts to vegetarian or seafood preferences, making it a crowd-pleaser for any palate.
• Beautiful Presentation: Colorful and vibrant, it looks as good as it tastes, ideal for hosting casual get-togethers.
• Nutrient-Rich: Loaded with antioxidants from the tomatoes and rich in protein from the XO sauce ingredients, it’s a wholesome choice.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering your ingredients is a breeze for this Pasta with Cherry Tomato & XO Sauce recipe. Each one plays an essential role in delivering that perfect balance of taste, texture, and vibrant color that makes the dish stand out. Let’s take a look:

• Cherry Tomatoes: Fresh and juicy, they add a natural sweetness and vibrant color to the pasta.
• Pasta: Opt for linguine or spaghetti for the best texture that holds the sauce beautifully.
• XO Sauce: The star of the dish, this luxurious condiment brings a smoky, umami depth made from dried seafood and spices.
• Garlic: Adds aromatic warmth and a savory foundation for the sauce.
• Olive Oil: Helps to sauté ingredients and adds a smooth mouthfeel to the dish.
• Fresh Basil: Provides a fresh, herbal note that brightens every bite.
• Parmesan Cheese (optional): Adds a creamy, salty finish, perfectly complementing the umami of XO sauce.
• Red Pepper Flakes: A pinch for a gentle kick to balance the sweetness and umami flavors.
• Salt and Pepper: For seasoning that rounds out the flavors beautifully.

Variations for Pasta with Cherry Tomato & XO Sauce

This Pasta with Cherry Tomato & XO Sauce recipe is incredibly flexible and easy to adapt. Whether you’re tailoring it to dietary needs or just experimenting with flavors in your kitchen, there’s plenty of room to make it your own.

• Seafood Boost: Add sautéed shrimp or scallops for extra protein and richness.
• Vegetarian Twist: Use vegetarian XO sauce or simply omit it and substitute with a miso paste to keep umami depth.
• Spicy Variations: Increase red pepper flakes or add sliced fresh chili for those who like it hot.
• Fresh Herb Mix: Experiment with cilantro, parsley, or thyme instead of basil for unique herbal notes.
• Different Pasta Shapes: Try penne, farfalle, or fusilli for a different texture and sauce-holding experience.

How to Make Pasta with Cherry Tomato & XO Sauce

Step 1: Prepare the Pasta

Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add your pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta, reserving about half a cup of the starchy cooking water for later.

Step 2: Sauté Garlic and Cherry Tomatoes

While the pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add minced garlic and cook just until fragrant and golden, being careful not to burn it. Toss in the halved cherry tomatoes and cook until they soften and release their juices, about 5 minutes.

Step 3: Add XO Sauce and Season

Stir in the XO sauce and red pepper flakes to the skillet. Let the mixture simmer gently for a couple of minutes, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Step 4: Combine Pasta and Sauce

Add the drained pasta to the skillet with the sauce. Toss thoroughly while gradually adding the reserved pasta water to create a silky, cohesive sauce that coats every strand.

Step 5: Finish with Fresh Basil and Cheese

Remove from heat and sprinkle torn fresh basil over the pasta. If using, grate Parmesan cheese on top for a creamy and savory touch just before serving.

Pro Tips for Making Pasta with Cherry Tomato & XO Sauce

• Choose Ripe Tomatoes: The sweeter and juicier, the better to enhance the natural freshness of the dish.
• Don’t Overcook Garlic: Keep it light golden to avoid bitterness and maintain that perfect aromatic flavor.
• Reserve Pasta Water: This starchy water is the secret to a perfect, silky sauce consistency.
• Quality XO Sauce: Invest in a good-quality XO sauce; it makes a huge difference in flavor depth.
• Use Fresh Herbs: Add basil just before serving to keep its vibrant color and fresh aroma intact.

How to Serve Pasta with Cherry Tomato & XO Sauce

Garnishes

Enhance your pasta with fresh basil leaves, a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese, and a few red pepper flakes for a hint of spice and extra color.

Side Dishes

This pasta pairs wonderfully with a crisp green salad dressed simply with lemon vinaigrette or a side of garlic bread to soak up every last bit of that flavorful sauce.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve the pasta in shallow bowls, topped with whole cherry tomatoes and fresh herb sprigs for an inviting and rustic look. Drizzle a bit of extra virgin olive oil around the edges before serving for a gourmet touch.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep any leftover Pasta with Cherry Tomato & XO Sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days to maintain freshness and flavor.

Freezing

Freezing pasta with fresh tomatoes and XO sauce is not recommended as it can affect the texture and freshness, but the XO sauce itself can be frozen separately in small portions for later use.

Reheating

Reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of water or olive oil to loosen the sauce and prevent drying out, heating just until warmed through.

FAQs

What can I use if I don’t have XO sauce?

If XO sauce isn’t available, you can substitute with a combination of chili paste, dried shrimp powder, and a bit of soy sauce to mimic the umami and smoky flavors.

Is this dish spicy?

This recipe has a mild heat due to the red pepper flakes, but you can easily adjust the spiciness to your liking by adding more or less.

Can I make this pasta vegetarian?

Yes! Simply use a vegetarian version of XO sauce or substitute miso paste for a similar depth of flavor without seafood ingredients.

What pasta types work best with this recipe?

Linguine, spaghetti, or other long, thin pasta shapes are ideal because they beautifully catch the sauce and offer a great texture contrast with the juicy tomatoes.

How can I make this dish more filling?

Add cooked shrimp, chicken, or tofu for extra protein, or serve with a side of garlic bread and a fresh salad to make it a complete meal.

Final Thoughts

This Pasta with Cherry Tomato & XO Sauce is a delightful culinary experience that combines simplicity with incredible flavor. Whether you’re whipping up a quick dinner after work or impressing friends at a casual gathering, this recipe brings bold tastes and fresh ingredients to the table with minimal fuss. Give it a try and enjoy a dish that feels both special and effortlessly delicious every time.

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