Cavatelli pasta is a delightful canvas for a vibrant tomato-basil feast that will dance on your taste buds! Picture tender, pillowy cavatelli enveloped in a luscious, homemade tomato sauce, bursting with the freshness of ripe tomatoes and fragrant basil. A sprinkle of nutritional yeast adds a cheesy twist, while a hint of garlic and a splash of vegetable broth elevate the flavors to new heights. This dish is not just a meal; it’s a warm hug on a plate, perfect for sharing with loved ones or savoring all to yourself. Dive into this comforting bowl of joy!
Table of Contents
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Simple ingredients make it easy to whip up any night.
- Fresh basil adds a burst of flavor that’s irresistible.
- Cavatelli pasta holds sauce beautifully for every bite.
- Perfect for family dinners or impressing guests.
- Customizable with your favorite veggies or proteins.
cavatelli pasta
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Step 1: Cook the Cavatelli – Cook the cavatelli pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Step 2: SautĂ© the Garlic – In a large skillet over medium heat, warm the olive oil. Add sliced garlic and sautĂ© until fragrant, about 1 minute.
- Step 3: Add Cherry Tomatoes – Add halved cherry tomatoes and cook until they begin to soften, about 3–4 minutes.
- Step 4: Simmer the Broth – Pour in the vegetable broth and bring to a simmer. Season with salt, pepper, and optional red pepper flakes.
- Step 5: Combine with Cavatelli – Add the cooked cavatelli to the skillet and toss to coat evenly in the sauce.
- Step 6: Add Basil and Cheese – Remove from heat and stir in the torn basil leaves and grated Parmesan cheese.
- Step 7: Serve and Enjoy – Serve immediately, garnished with extra basil and Parmesan if desired.
Nutrient
| Nutrient | Amount per serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 350 |
| Fat | 12g |
| Protein | 10g |
| Carbs | 50g |
| Fiber | 3g |
| Sodium | 400mg |
Recipe Snapshot
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Category | Main Course |
| Cuisine | Italian |
| Prep Time | 10 minutes |
| Cook Time | 20 minutes |
| Total Time | 30 minutes |
| Dietary | Vegetarian |
| Serves | 4 |
| Best Served | Hot with extra basil and Parmesan |
Ingredients
Gather your ingredients for a delightful Cavatelli Pasta dish!
- 8 oz cavatelli pasta – your main pasta choice
- 2 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil – for that rich flavor
- 3 cloves garlic – thinly sliced, adds a punch
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes – halved for sweetness
- 1/2 cup vegetable broth – a great base
- 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves – torn for freshness
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese – for a cheesy finish
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper – to taste
- Red pepper flakes – optional for heat
How to Make Cavatelli Pasta
Get ready for a delightful cooking adventure with cavatelli pasta! Follow these simple steps to create a delicious tomato-basil feast.
Step 1: Cook the Cavatelli
Cook the cavatelli pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Step 2: Sauté the Garlic
In a large skillet over medium heat, warm the olive oil. Add sliced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute.
Step 3: Add Cherry Tomatoes
Add halved cherry tomatoes and cook until they begin to soften, about 3–4 minutes.
Step 4: Simmer the Broth
Pour in the vegetable broth and bring to a simmer. Season with salt, pepper, and optional red pepper flakes.
Step 5: Combine with Cavatelli
Add the cooked cavatelli to the skillet and toss to coat evenly in the sauce.
Step 6: Add Basil and Cheese
Remove from heat and stir in the torn basil leaves and grated Parmesan cheese.
Step 7: Serve and Enjoy
Serve immediately, garnished with extra basil and Parmesan if desired.
Pro Tips for Making cavatelli pasta
- Use semolina flour for a firmer texture.
- Rest the dough for at least 30 minutes to relax the gluten.
- Roll the dough thin for a delicate bite.
- Experiment with different sauces for variety.
- Serve immediately for the best flavor and texture.
How to Serve
- Top with freshly grated Parmesan or Pecorino cheese for a savory kick.
- Garnish with fresh basil leaves for a burst of color and flavor.
- Serve alongside a crisp green salad drizzled with balsamic vinaigrette.
- Pair with garlic bread for a delightful, hearty meal.
- For a protein boost, add grilled chicken or sautéed mushrooms.
- Enjoy with a side of roasted vegetables for a wholesome touch.
- Drizzle with a bit of extra virgin olive oil for added richness.
Make Ahead and Storage
You can prepare and store your cavatelli pasta dish with ease:
Storing Leftovers
- Allow the pasta to cool completely before storing.
- Transfer to an airtight container.
- Refrigerate for up to 3 days.
- Label the container with the date for easy tracking.
Freezing
- Cool the pasta completely before freezing.
- Portion into freezer-safe bags or containers.
- Remove excess air to prevent freezer burn.
- Freeze for up to 2 months for best quality.
Reheating
- Thaw frozen pasta in the refrigerator overnight.
- Reheat in a saucepan over low heat with a splash of vegetable broth.
- Stir gently to maintain texture.
- Heat until warmed through, about 5-7 minutes.
You can visit our breakfast, lunch, dinner and desserts recipes from here:
breakfast,
desserts,
dinner,
lunch
FAQs
Here’s a helpful FAQ about this recipe:
1. What is cavatelli pasta made from?
Cavatelli pasta is typically made from semolina flour and water, giving it a firm texture that holds sauces well. You can also find variations made with whole wheat or gluten-free flours for those with dietary restrictions.
2. How do I cook cavatelli pasta perfectly?
To cook cavatelli pasta perfectly, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook for about 7-10 minutes, or until al dente. Remember to stir occasionally to prevent sticking. Taste a piece to check for doneness before draining!
3. Can I use a different sauce with cavatelli?
Absolutely! While a tomato-basil sauce is delicious, cavatelli pairs well with a variety of sauces, including creamy Alfredo, pesto, or even a simple olive oil and garlic sauce. Feel free to get creative!
4. How can I make cavatelli pasta from scratch?
Making cavatelli from scratch is fun! Combine semolina flour and water to form a dough, then roll it into small pieces and shape them using your fingers or a fork to create the signature ridges. Let them dry slightly before cooking!
5. What can I add to my tomato-basil sauce for extra flavor?
For extra flavor in your tomato-basil sauce, consider adding minced garlic, red pepper flakes for heat, or a splash of vegetable broth for depth. Fresh herbs like oregano or thyme can also enhance the taste!
6. Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the sauce ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to three days. Just reheat it gently before serving with freshly cooked cavatelli. You can also freeze the sauce for longer storage!
7. What are some good side dishes to serve with cavatelli pasta?
Cavatelli pasta pairs wonderfully with a fresh green salad, garlic bread, or roasted vegetables. You can also serve it with a light antipasto platter for a delightful meal!
8. How do I store leftover cavatelli pasta?
To store leftover cavatelli pasta, place it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It should be consumed within 3-4 days. You can reheat it on the stovetop with a splash of water or sauce to keep it moist!
Final Thoughts
As you savor this delightful cavatelli pasta, let the flavors of tomato and basil transport you to a sun-kissed Italian kitchen. It’s simple, rewarding, and perfect for sharing with loved ones. So grab your fork, dig in, and relish every bite of this epic feast. Happy cooking!