The Blue SaltBeta

Italian dinner

Cherry Tomato Spaghetti Aglio e Olio

When time is short and the cupboards look bare, this easy cherry tomato spaghetti aglio e olio recipe is absolute dinnertime gold. In just 15 minutes, sweet cherry tomatoes collapse into warm, garlic-infused olive oil with a kick of chilli flakes, clinging lovingly to every single strand of spaghetti. It is quick, vibrant, and delightfully fuss-free—the sort of comforting Italian bowl you can pull together on a frantic weeknight without breaking a sweat. Grab your favourite pasta bowl, toss through plenty of torn fresh basil, and dive straight into pure, glossy bliss.

Jump to recipe
Twirled glossy spaghetti tossed with blistered red cherry tomatoes, sliced garlic, chilli flakes, and fresh green basil leaves in a shallow white bowl.
VeganVegetarianDairy freeCarb loverHotBudget friendlyComfort foodFresh

Contains: Wheat. Always check ingredient labels.

Why you'll love it

  • Ready in just 15 minutes with humble storecupboard staples.
  • Sweet, juicy blistered tomatoes meet fragrant garlic and gentle warmth.
  • Naturally vegan and dairy-free for effortless, feel-good comfort.

Fits your table

Cooking for one
Halve the quantities effortlessly in one pan for a speedy, low-washup solo feast.
For two
The recipe makes a generous, romantic dinner for two in the time it takes to boil pasta.
With kids
Dial down or omit the chilli flakes for little ones who prefer a milder garlic and tomato toss.
Swaps
For gluten-free, use your favourite gluten-free spaghetti instead of regular wheat pasta.

Ingredients

2 servings
  • Spaghetti200 g
  • Extra-virgin olive oil4 tbsp
  • Garlic cloves, thinly sliced4 whole
  • Cherry tomatoes, halved250 g
  • Chilli flakes0.5 tsp
  • Fresh basil leaves1 handful

Steps

Storage & leftovers

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days; freezing is not recommended as the pasta loses its bite. Reheat gently in a warm frying pan with an extra splash of olive oil or water to loosen the sauce.

Nutrition

This dinner leans carb lover. We don't publish calorie numbers until they're calculated from real data.

Questions

Can I use tinned tomatoes instead of fresh cherry tomatoes?

Fresh cherry tomatoes burst quickly to create a light, glossy emulsion with the oil, so while tinned cherry tomatoes work in a pinch, fresh gives the best sweet, blistered texture.

Is this dish suitable for a vegan diet?

Yes, this recipe is naturally vegan and dairy-free, relying on extra-virgin olive oil, garlic, and fresh herbs for rich flavour.

Why is reserving pasta water so important?

The starchy pasta cooking water emulsifies with the warm olive oil and burst tomato juices, creating a silky sauce that clings tightly to the spaghetti.

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Last updated 2026-11-08