Dinner

One-Pan Lemon Garlic Pasta with Cherry Tomatoes and Basil Recipe

ByJake Silas December 26, 2025December 26, 2025

Introduction

This One-Pan Pasta is a simple, flavorful meal that comes together quickly with minimal cleanup. Combining linguine, cherry tomatoes, garlic, and fresh basil, it creates a vibrant dish perfect for busy weeknights or casual dinners.

A white deep plate holds a small serving of spaghetti pasta. The pasta strands are light yellow and appear smooth and cooked, mixed with vibrant red cherry tomato pieces scattered throughout. On top, thin slices of fresh green basil leaves are spread, adding a fresh contrast. There is a fine layer of grated pale yellow cheese sprinkled over the pasta and tomatoes. The plate is placed on a gray cloth napkin, set against a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

12 ounces linguine
12 ounces cherry tomatoes
1 red onion
2 teaspoons sea salt
4 cloves garlic
1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
2 sprigs fresh basil
4 1/2 cups water
2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
Grated Parmesan cheese, to taste

Instructions

Step 1: Place the linguine, cherry tomatoes, sliced red onion, sea salt, ground black pepper, minced garlic, crushed red pepper flakes, olive oil, and fresh basil sprigs in a large pot.
Step 2: Pour in the water and bring everything to a boil over medium-high heat.
Step 3: Once boiling, cook for about 9 minutes. Use tongs occasionally to lift and stir the pasta, preventing it from sticking to the bottom of the pot. Then turn off the heat.
Step 4: Toss the pasta gently to help thicken the remaining liquid, which will become a delicious sauce.
Step 5: Serve topped with grated Parmesan cheese and any remaining basil leaves for garnish. Pair it with a fresh salad or garlic bread for a complete meal.

Tips & Variations

For extra flavor, add a splash of white wine before boiling the water.
Use gluten-free pasta to make this dish suitable for gluten-sensitive eaters.
Switch up the vegetables by adding spinach or mushrooms for variety.
If you prefer less heat, reduce or omit the crushed red pepper flakes.

Storage

Store any leftover pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of water or in the microwave to keep the sauce from drying out.

How to Serve

A white deep plate holds a simple spaghetti dish with about three layers visible: the bottom layer is golden spaghetti noodles, lightly coated with a shiny sauce; scattered on top are bright red cherry tomato pieces adding a pop of color; a layer of finely shredded pale yellow cheese is sprinkled over the pasta, melting slightly; fresh, thinly sliced dark green basil leaves rest on top as a fresh garnish; the plate is placed on a beige cloth over a white marbled surface. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of pasta for this recipe?

Yes, you can substitute linguine with spaghetti, fettuccine, or any other long pasta. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly.

Is it necessary to use fresh basil?

Fresh basil adds a bright, aromatic flavor that complements the dish well. You can use dried basil if needed, but add it earlier in the cooking process for better flavor infusion.