Ingredients:

  • 1 lb (450g) Linguine or Spaghetti
  • 1 tbsp (15ml) Salt
  • 2 cups (300g) Cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 3 tbsp (45ml) Extra virgin olive oil
  • 4 cloves (20g) Garlic, thinly sliced
  • ½ tsp (3g) Red pepper flakes
  • 1 tbsp (15ml) Balsamic vinegar
  • ½ tsp (3g) Sea salt
  • ¼ tsp (1g) Black pepper
  • ½ cup (15g) Fresh basil leaves, chiffonade
  • ½ cup (50g) Freshly grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 tbsp (15ml) Fresh lemon juice

Instructions:

  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add the pasta and cook until al dente, reserving ½ cup (120ml) of the starchy pasta water before draining.
  2. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the halved cherry tomatoes and cook without stirring for 2-3 minutes until skins blister and brown.
  3. Stir in the sliced garlic and red pepper flakes, sautéing for 60 seconds until the garlic is fragrant and translucent.
  4. Lower heat to medium. Stir in the balsamic vinegar, salt, and pepper. Add the cooked pasta and reserved pasta water, tossing vigorously for 1-2 minutes until a glossy glaze forms.
  5. Remove pan from heat. Fold in the sliced basil and lemon juice, then sprinkle with Parmesan cheese and toss once more to incorporate.