Description
A vibrant and flavorful pasta dish combining tender pasta with bursting cherry tomatoes, sweet roasted red peppers, and fresh corn, all tossed in olive oil and garlic, then finished with fresh herbs and Parmesan cheese for a perfect weeknight meal.
Ingredients
Scale
Pasta
- 12 oz pasta (penne, rotini, or your choice)
Vegetables and Flavorings
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 pint cherry tomatoes, halved
- 2 roasted red peppers, sliced (jarred or homemade)
- 1 1/2 cups fresh or frozen corn kernels
Seasonings
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1/4 tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
Finishing Touches
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil or parsley
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions
- Cook the pasta: Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup of the pasta water, then drain the pasta and set it aside.
- Sauté garlic: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.
- Cook tomatoes: Add the halved cherry tomatoes to the skillet and cook for 3 to 5 minutes until they start to soften and burst, releasing their juices.
- Add roasted peppers and corn: Stir in the sliced roasted red peppers and corn kernels. Continue cooking for another 3 to 4 minutes until everything is heated through.
- Season: Season the mixture with salt, black pepper, and crushed red pepper flakes if using. Stir well to combine.
- Toss pasta and vegetables: Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss everything together. Gradually add the reserved pasta water a little at a time to loosen the sauce to your desired consistency.
- Finish with herbs and cheese: Remove the skillet from heat. Stir in the chopped fresh basil or parsley and sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
- Serve: Serve the pasta warm or at room temperature as a satisfying and colorful main dish or side.
Notes
- Using jarred roasted red peppers is a quick and convenient option if you don’t want to roast your own.
- Feel free to substitute the fresh herbs with your choice, such as oregano or thyme for different flavor profiles.
- The reserved pasta water helps to create a light sauce that clings nicely to the pasta.
- This dish can be served warm or at room temperature, making it ideal for picnics or potlucks.
- Add protein like grilled chicken or shrimp if you want to make it more filling.
- For a vegan version, omit the Parmesan or use a plant-based cheese alternative.
