Fregola Pasta with Cherry Tomatoes & Basil
A quick and easy pasta dish that would make a lovely side for your main course or a delicious lightened up meal all on its own.
A quick and easy pasta dish that would make a lovely side for your main course or a delicious lightened up meal all on its own.
- 2 cloves ((minced))
- 4 cups vegetable broth ((divided))
- 1/4 of a red onion ((diced))
- 1 cup fregola pasta ((or other small shaped pasta - isr
- 1 cup assorted cherry tomatoes ((halved))
- 1 green onion ((diced))
- 4-5 medium basil leaves ((chiffonade))
- salt/pepper to taste ((i used about 1/2 tsp salt
- drizzle of balsamic vinegar ((optional))
- Carbohydrate 0 g
- Cholesterol 0 mg
- Fat 0 g
- Fiber 0 g
- Protein 0 g
- Saturated Fat 0 g
- Serving Size 1 1 Serving (2g)
- Sodium 0 mg
- Sugar 0 g
- Trans Fat 0 g
- Calories 0 calories
Step-by-step
- Heat 1/2 cup of vegetable broth over medium heat.
- Add the red onion and garlic and sauté for 4-5 minutes until softened.
- Add the remaining 3.5 cups of vegetable broth and bring to a boil.
- Once boiling, add the fregola pasta, a pinch of salt and pepper, turn down the heat and simmer for 12-13 minutes until al dente.
- Turn off the heat and add the cherry tomatoes, green onion, and basil and stir to heat through.
- Taste and adjust salt/pepper if needed.
- Drizzle with balsamic vinegar before serving, if using.
Fregola Pasta with Cherry Tomatoes & Basil: A Weeknight Winner
As a busy working mom, finding time to cook a healthy and delicious dinner can feel like a Herculean task. My days are filled with back-to-back meetings, school pick-ups, and the never-ending cycle of laundry and meal prep. But even amidst the chaos, I refuse to compromise on good food. That’s why recipes like this Fregola Pasta with Cherry Tomatoes & Basil have become my weeknight saviors.
This dish is incredibly quick, taking less than 20 minutes from start to finish. It’s also incredibly versatile. You can easily adapt it based on what’s in your fridge – different herbs, a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese, or even some crumbled feta would all work beautifully. The bright, fresh flavors make it a perfect light meal for a warm evening, or it can be just as satisfying as a side dish to accompany grilled chicken or fish. The beauty of it lies in its simplicity – a few fresh ingredients expertly combined to create a burst of flavor.
The heart of this recipe, the fregola pasta, is a small, toasted Sardinian pasta. It holds its shape beautifully, preventing it from becoming mushy, even after simmering. Its slightly nutty flavor perfectly complements the sweetness of the cherry tomatoes and the fragrant basil. The red onion adds a touch of subtle sharpness, beautifully balanced by the garlic. It’s a symphony of textures and flavors that dance on your palate.
One of the things I love most about this recipe is how effortlessly elegant it is. It’s the kind of dish that looks like it took hours to prepare, but in reality, it comes together in a flash. This is a true game-changer for busy weeknights when you crave something delicious without the fuss. The vibrant colors of the cherry tomatoes and basil also add a touch of visual appeal, making it a dish you'll be proud to serve to family and friends.
This pasta dish is not just a convenient weeknight meal; it’s a testament to the magic that can happen when simple ingredients are combined with a little love and attention. It’s a perfect illustration of how delicious and nutritious food doesn't have to be complicated or time-consuming. This recipe has become a regular in our household, a reliable and delightful source of sustenance that always hits the spot.
Beyond the ease of preparation, this recipe also lends itself well to customization. Feel free to experiment with different types of pasta, herbs, or vegetables to create your own unique version. Maybe swap the basil for oregano, or add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little kick. The possibilities are endless!
So, the next time you’re short on time but craving something delicious, remember this simple yet stunning fregola pasta dish. It’s a recipe that's guaranteed to become a staple in your own kitchen repertoire. The compliments will roll in, but you'll know the secret – it's easier than it looks!
Tips and variations:
- For a vegetarian boost, add some cooked chickpeas or white beans.
- A squeeze of lemon juice at the end brightens the flavors.
- If you don't have fregola, other small pasta shapes like couscous or Israeli couscous work well too.
- Add some crumbled feta cheese for a salty, tangy twist.
- Roast the cherry tomatoes before adding them to the pasta for an intensified sweetness.
Enjoy this delicious and easy pasta recipe!
