Why is it that cold weather makes me crave comfort food? Then again, most days I crave comfort food. The kind of food that makes you want to snuggle under a blanket after you finish eating. Maybe I’ll catch a few episodes on Netflix afterward or finish my new reference book. It’s the small things in life. Pasta comes darn close to fulfilling this need. Add plenty of basil and you have a winner. One thing you’ll learn about me is that I LOVE basil. I love the smell of fresh basil but most of all, the deliciousness it adds to any dish that it’s paired with.
I hope you arrived hungry because this recipe is delectable. The flavors of this dish are so simple but utterly enjoyable. In less than 20 minutes you could be enjoying basil pasta and cheesy broiled tomatoes. I think I might swoon. Can someone make this tomorrow? I’ll be over around 6 PM, that is, if I can get out of my driveway.

Basil Pasta with Cheesy Broiled Tomatoes

Serves: 4
Time: 18 Minutes

Ingredients

12 ounces spaghetti
1 small container cherry tomatoes, halved
3 tablespoons olive oil, plus 2 tablespoons
7 ounces mozzarella, freshly grated
1/4 cup grated Parmesan, plus extra for topping
2 cloves garlic, minced
1-3 splashes hot sauce, to taste (I like Texas Pete Hot Sauce)
3/4 cup sliced fresh basil leaves
Salt and pepper

Directions

1. Preheat the oven to broil. Cook pasta according to the package directions in a large saucepan. Drain and return to saucepan.
2. Line a small sheet pan with aluminum foil. Place the tomatoes cut side up on the sheet pan. Drizzle with 2 tablespoons olive oil. Season with salt and black pepper. Sprinkle tomatoes with mozzarella and parmesan cheese.
3. Broil tomatoes for about 2 minutes. The cheese should be golden and bubbly. It’s a good idea to set a timer as the tomatoes can easily scorch.
3. Over medium heat, warm the olive oil, garlic, and hot sauce for about 2 minutes.
4. Once the oil is warm, pour over pasta. Add fresh basil and salt and pepper. Toss to combine. Serve with tomatoes and additional parmesan cheese.

I sincerely hope you make this recipe! It’s one of those that will be in your repertoire for quite some time. Until it warms up, snuggle in and enjoy some simple and yummy comfort food!