Spaghetti with cherry tomatoes
During the summer it is more difficult to get people excited about eating, especially if the weather is getting seriously hot and sultry. At such times, only the most delicate, wholesome, fresh and light meals can entice people to share a meal together. So, what follows is a very simple recipe with straightforward, light flavours: it could only be spaghetti with cherry tomatoes, a classic of Mediterranean cuisine, perfect to replace the classic pasta with tomato sauce when you wish specifically to savour the flavour of tomatoes. To make it well you merely have to make sure you buy the best delicate cherry tomatoes, and also that you add a dash of mild olive oil which helps to emphasize their flavour and aroma.
Ingredients
* approximate values per serving
Preparation
Cut the cherry tomatoes into quarters. Fry a clove of garlic, some olives and a little chilli in a frying pan. Then add the tomatoes to the frying pan and continue cooking. Season with sugar and salt and cook for a little more. Once the spaghetti is cooked, mix with the sauce all together in the frying pan. Your spaghetti with cherry tomatoes is ready, served in a warmed, deep dish with a drizzle of olive oil.
Step by step
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Fry a garlic clove, some olives and a little chilli in a frying pan
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Add the tomatoes to the frying pan and cook a little more
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Season with salt and sugar and cook to amalgamate all the flavours
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Once the spaghetti is cooked, add to the sauce in the frying pan
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Your spaghetti with cherry tomatoes is ready: serve in a deep, warmed dish and drizzle with olive oil.
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Additional information
Spaghetti with Cherry Tomatoes and Black Olives
A delicious variation of spaghetti with cherry tomatoes is the addition of black olives, which give the dish a rich and enveloping flavor. To prepare this version, simply cut the cherry tomatoes and sauté them in a pan with a clove of garlic, black olives, and a pinch of chili pepper for a spicy touch. After sautéing the tomatoes, add the al dente spaghetti, mixing well to combine the flavors. The presence of olives not only enriches the dish in terms of taste but also provides a pleasant contrast to the sweetness of the tomatoes. Serve the spaghetti with cherry tomatoes and black olives drizzled with extra virgin olive oil to further enhance the flavors.
Spaghetti with Cherry Tomatoes Calabrian Style
The Calabrian version of spaghetti with cherry tomatoes brings with it the warmth and intense flavors of this region. In this preparation, in addition to the classic cherry tomatoes and garlic, typical ingredients such as 'nduja, a spicy spreadable salami, can be added, enriching the dish with a smoky and spicy note. Preparing spaghetti this way results in an even more flavorful and characteristic sauce. The 'nduja melts during cooking, creating a creamy dressing that envelops the spaghetti in a hug of flavors. This version is perfect for those who love dishes with a strong and authentic taste, typical of Calabrian cuisine.
Light Spaghetti with Cherry Tomatoes without Oil
For those who want a lighter version of spaghetti with cherry tomatoes, it is possible to prepare the dish without oil. In this light variant, one can opt for a sauté made with water or vegetable broth, making the preparation lighter without compromising flavor. The cherry tomatoes, cut into quarters, are cooked in a pan with garlic and chili pepper, creating a fresh and tasty sauce. To enhance the flavor, a pinch of sugar and a bit of salt can be added. This recipe is ideal for those following a low-calorie diet or for anyone who simply wants to enjoy a healthy and nutritious dish without sacrificing taste.
Nutritional Benefits of Spaghetti with Cherry Tomatoes and Calories
Spaghetti with cherry tomatoes is not only a delicious dish but also offers numerous health benefits. Cherry tomatoes, rich in antioxidants like lycopene, are known for their anti-inflammatory properties and support for heart health. Additionally, they are a source of vitamins and minerals, such as vitamin C and potassium, which contribute to overall well-being. A serving of spaghetti with cherry tomatoes (about 100 grams of spaghetti and 150 grams of tomatoes) provides approximately 350 calories, making it a nutritious and balanced option for a light lunch or dinner.
Can Spaghetti with Cherry Tomatoes be Frozen?
Yes, spaghetti with cherry tomatoes can be frozen, but it is advisable to do so without the sauce. To freeze them, it is best to cook the spaghetti al dente, let them cool, and then place them in airtight containers or food bags, ensuring to remove as much air as possible. The cherry tomatoes can be frozen separately in a suitable container. When you want to enjoy the dish, you can cook the spaghetti and reheat the cherry tomatoes in a pan. This way, the freshness and flavor of the dish are maintained, even after freezing.