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Pasta with Cherry Tomato & XO Sauce

Pasta with Cherry Tomato & XO Sauce
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This Pasta with Cherry Tomato & XO Sauce recipe combines fresh, juicy cherry tomatoes with rich, umami-packed XO sauce to create a quick, flavorful, and versatile pasta dish. Ready in under 30 minutes, it is perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings, offering a beautiful presentation and a nutrient-rich meal that can be adapted for vegetarian or seafood preferences.

Ingredients

Scale

Primary Ingredients

  • 200g linguine or spaghetti pasta
  • 150g fresh cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 2 tablespoons XO sauce
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • Handful of fresh basil leaves, torn
  • Salt, to taste
  • Black pepper, to taste
  • Pinch of red pepper flakes

Optional Ingredients

  • Parmesan cheese, grated (optional, for serving)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the linguine or spaghetti and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta, reserving about half a cup of the starchy cooking water for later use.
  2. Sauté Garlic and Cherry Tomatoes: While the pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté just until fragrant and golden, taking care not to burn it. Add the halved cherry tomatoes and cook for about 5 minutes until they soften and release their juices.
  3. Add XO Sauce and Season: Stir in the XO sauce and red pepper flakes into the skillet. Let the mixture simmer gently for 2 minutes to meld the flavors. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
  4. Combine Pasta and Sauce: Add the drained pasta to the skillet and toss thoroughly. Gradually pour in the reserved pasta water while tossing to create a silky, cohesive sauce that coats every strand of pasta evenly.
  5. Finish with Fresh Basil and Cheese: Remove the skillet from heat and sprinkle the torn fresh basil over the pasta. If desired, grate Parmesan cheese on top for a creamy and savory finish just before serving.

Notes

  • Choose ripe, juicy cherry tomatoes for the best natural sweetness and vibrant flavor.
  • Be careful not to overcook garlic—just until golden to avoid bitterness.
  • Reserve pasta water to help create a smooth sauce consistency.
  • Use a high-quality XO sauce for the best umami depth and smoky flavor.
  • Add fresh basil right before serving to preserve its bright color and aroma.

Nutrition

Keywords: Pasta, Cherry Tomato, XO Sauce, Quick Dinner, Umami, Easy Recipe, Vegetarian Option

Find it online: https://eazyummy.com/pasta-with-cherry-tomato-xo-sauce/