Pasta With Burst Cherry Tomatoes and XO Sauce Recipe

This Pasta With Burst Cherry Tomatoes and XO Sauce is a dazzling medley of flavors that’s as quick to make as it is impressive to eat. Sweet, juicy tomatoes burst alongside savory XO sauce, with herbs and just a hint of spice, all coating curls of pasta in a silky, vibrant sauce. It’s the kind of dish that takes you from simple ingredients to wow-worthy results—perfect for a weeknight dinner or to impress friends without breaking a sweat.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Bursting with Flavor: Each bite combines sweet tomatoes and the savory, umami magic of XO sauce for an absolutely irresistible sauce.
  • Quick and Effortless: This show-stopping pasta comes together in just 25 minutes—so you can enjoy a restaurant-worthy meal on even your busiest days.
  • Stunning Color and Texture: The pops of cherry tomatoes and fresh herbs fill every forkful with color, juiciness, and freshness.
  • Totally Customizable: Easily adjust the heat, pasta shape, or even the protein to suit your cravings and pantry supplies.
Pasta With Burst Cherry Tomatoes and XO Sauce Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

It’s amazing how just a handful of carefully selected ingredients work together to make Pasta With Burst Cherry Tomatoes and XO Sauce sing. Each element brings its own note—whether it’s a hit of freshness, a robust savoriness, or a sprinkle of summery herbs—creating a balanced, crave-worthy dish.

  • Kosher salt: The key to well-seasoned pasta and sauce—don’t skimp!
  • Short pasta (casarecce or gemelli): These twists and tubes grip the luscious sauce for maximum flavor in every bite.
  • Extra-virgin olive oil: Adds richness and helps build a silky emulsified sauce.
  • Shallots: Provide gentle sweetness and aromatic depth, without overpowering the other flavors.
  • Garlic: Brings its classic, pungent warmth that pairs beautifully with tomatoes and XO sauce.
  • Cherry tomatoes: Juicy, sweet, and ready to burst into a fresh, jammy sauce.
  • XO sauce: The star ingredient, offering layers of umami, seafood richness, and gentle heat; store-bought or homemade both work.
  • Ground dried Thai chiles or red pepper flakes (optional): Adds extra heat if you like a little kick.
  • Fresh basil: Brings a bright, peppery, unmistakable aroma to the finished pasta.
  • Fresh mint: Unexpected and refreshing, mint lifts the whole dish with cool, herbal notes.
Note: You’ll find the complete list of ingredients, along with their exact measurements, in the printable recipe card at the bottom of this post.

Variations

Pasta With Burst Cherry Tomatoes and XO Sauce is endlessly adaptable, so you can tailor it to what’s in your fridge or to fit any dietary need. With a few tweaks, you’ll find a version that feels just right for you and your family.

  • Vegetarian Swap: Use a vegetarian “XO-style” sauce or mushroom umami paste for a meat-free take that’s still loaded with flavor.
  • Spice Levels: Dial up (or down) the heat by increasing or skipping the red pepper flakes or Thai chiles.
  • Pasta Shape Change: Try it with spaghetti, rigatoni, or even orzo—whatever pasta you love most!
  • Add Protein: Toss in cooked shrimp, sautéed tofu, or leftover shredded chicken right at the end for a heartier meal.
  • Herb Twist: Swap mint for parsley or chives, or use both for an extra-green lift.

How to Make Pasta With Burst Cherry Tomatoes and XO Sauce

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Bring a generously salted pot of water to a boil, then add your pasta. Cook it until it’s just shy of al dente—about a minute before the package’s suggested time—so the noodles hold up perfectly once tossed in the sauce. Don’t forget: scoop out about 1 1/2 cups of that pasta water before draining—it’s liquid gold for the sauce!

Step 2: Sauté Shallots and Garlic

While the pasta cooks, heat your olive oil in a large skillet until it shimmers. Add the thinly sliced shallots, seasoning lightly with salt, and sauté until they’re translucent and just tender—no browning here, just gentle sweetness. Then, stir in the garlic and let it cook until soft and fragrant, about two minutes.

Step 3: Burst the Cherry Tomatoes

Add the whole cherry tomatoes to the skillet, shaking them into an even layer. As they heat, you’ll notice their skins start to split—use your spoon to gently press down on a few for that satisfying “burst,” but leave some intact for those juicy pops in every bite. Stir often and let the tomatoes create a jammy, saucy base.

Step 4: Stir in XO Sauce and Adjust the Heat

Once the tomatoes have softened and released their juices, add your XO sauce and, if you like, a pinch of chiles. Give everything a good mix, taste for seasoning, and adjust the salt or spice to your liking. This is where the sauce becomes gloriously rich and aromatic.

Step 5: Finish the Pasta in the Sauce

Add your pasta along with about half the reserved cooking water to the skillet. Turn the heat to high and toss everything together—use tongs or swirl the pan so the sauce clings to every twist. Let it thicken just enough to coat the noodles; add extra pasta water if it seems dry or sticky.

Step 6: Add Herbs and Serve

Remove the skillet from heat, then fold in the fresh basil and mint. Taste, adjust seasoning if you like, and serve Pasta With Burst Cherry Tomatoes and XO Sauce immediately—while everything is glossy, aromatic, and utterly irresistible.

Pro Tips for Making Pasta With Burst Cherry Tomatoes and XO Sauce

  • Choose Ripe Tomatoes: The juicier and sweeter your cherry tomatoes, the more flavorful (and colorful!) your sauce will be, so don’t be afraid to sample a few first.
  • Pasta Water is Your Friend: Save more than you think you’ll need—pasta water helps you create that glossy, clingy sauce you see in your favorite restaurants.
  • Don’t Burn the Aromatics: Keep the heat moderate when sautéing shallots and garlic so they infuse their flavor without turning bitter.
  • XO Sauce: Go for Quality: If using store-bought XO sauce, go for a reputable Asian grocer brand—or try homemade for the boldest flavor punch.

How to Serve Pasta With Burst Cherry Tomatoes and XO Sauce

Pasta With Burst Cherry Tomatoes and XO Sauce Recipe - Recipe Image

Garnishes

A shower of fresh basil and mint is non-negotiable—their fragrance is half the magic here! For an extra pop, sprinkle with shaved Parmigiano-Reggiano, crisped shallots, or even a dash of toasted panko for unexpected crunch. Don’t forget a drizzle of your best olive oil right before serving for that glossy finish.

Side Dishes

Since Pasta With Burst Cherry Tomatoes and XO Sauce is rich and full-flavored, it shines next to simple sides. Think peppery arugula salad with lemon vinaigrette, garlicky sautéed greens, or a platter of roasted asparagus. Warm, crusty bread is practically a requirement for sopping up every drop of sauce.

Creative Ways to Present

For maximum table appeal, serve this pasta in a wide, shallow bowl so those vibrant tomatoes and fresh herbs really pop. Try plating individual nests with a few unburst tomatoes perched on top and a little extra XO sauce drizzled dramatically. Or, for family style, heap onto a big platter and finish with extra mint and a few edible flowers—summer on a plate!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you happen to have leftovers (lucky you!), let the pasta cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. Store in the fridge for up to two days, though keep in mind the herbs will lose some of their fresh flair.

Freezing

Freezing isn’t ideal for this dish, as the tomatoes and fresh herbs change texture after thawing. If you must, freeze sauced pasta (without the herbs) in a tightly sealed container for up to a month; add fresh basil and mint after reheating for brightness.

Reheating

Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat with a splash of water or broth to revive the sauce. Stir gently and, once warmed through, finish with fresh herbs again to recapture some of that just-made taste.

FAQs

  1. What is XO sauce, and where can I find it?

    XO sauce is a luxurious condiment from Hong Kong made with dried seafood, cured meats, and aromatics. It has an intensely savory, slightly spicy flavor that transforms almost anything it touches. Look for jars in well-stocked Asian grocers or specialty stores—or make your own if you’re feeling adventurous!

  2. Can I make this recipe vegetarian or vegan?

    Yes—substitute with a vegetarian “XO-style” sauce or a similar umami-rich paste using mushrooms and fermented beans. For a vegan version, double-check that your pasta contains no eggs and use a plant-based XO alternative.

  3. Will other types of tomatoes work if I don’t have cherry tomatoes?

    Absolutely! Grape tomatoes are a good substitute, or you can roughly chop ripe heirloom or Roma tomatoes and proceed with the recipe. Just keep in mind that larger tomatoes will release more juice, so reduce the sauce a bit longer if needed.

  4. Is Pasta With Burst Cherry Tomatoes and XO Sauce spicy?

    XO sauce has a gentle kick, but the overall dish is only mildly spicy. You control the heat by adding more or less dried chiles or red pepper flakes—so make it as fiery or as gentle as you wish!

Final Thoughts

If you’re craving a pasta that dazzles with freshness, color, and layers of flavor, Pasta With Burst Cherry Tomatoes and XO Sauce is ready to become your new favorite. I can’t wait for you to try it—every bite is a little celebration. Let your kitchen fill with the aroma of bursting tomatoes and XO magic, and enjoy every delicious forkful with someone you love!

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Pasta With Burst Cherry Tomatoes and XO Sauce Recipe

Pasta With Burst Cherry Tomatoes and XO Sauce Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star 4.4 from 96 reviews
  • Author: Julia
  • Prep Time: 5 mins
  • Cook Time: 20 mins
  • Total Time: 25 mins
  • Yield: 4 servings
  • Category: Stovetop
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: Italian

Description

This Pasta with Burst Cherry Tomatoes and XO Sauce recipe is a flavorful and vibrant dish that combines the sweetness of cherry tomatoes with the umami richness of XO sauce. The burst cherry tomatoes create a luscious sauce that coats the pasta beautifully, while the fresh herbs add a pop of color and freshness to the dish.


Ingredients

Units Scale

Kosher salt

  • 1 pound (450 g) short pasta, such as casarecce or gemelli
  • 1/4 cup (60 ml) extra-virgin olive oil
  • 2 medium shallots (80 g), thinly sliced
  • 4 medium garlic cloves (20 g), thinly sliced
  • 1 1/2 pounds cherry tomatoes (about 2 pints; 675 g)
  • 1/2 cup (140 g) XO sauce, store-bought or homemade
  • Pinch finely ground dried Thai chiles or red pepper flakes (optional; see notes)
  • 1/2 ounce fresh basil leaves (1 loosely packed cup; 15 g), roughly chopped
  • 1/2 ounce fresh mint leaves (1 loosely packed cup; 15 g), roughly chopped

Instructions

  1. Cook the pasta: In a pot of salted boiling water, cook pasta until just shy of al dente. Drain pasta, reserving 1 1/2 cups (360ml) cooking water.
  2. Prepare the cherry tomato sauce: In a large skillet, sauté shallots and garlic in olive oil until softened. Add cherry tomatoes and cook until they burst. Stir in XO sauce and dried chiles, if using.
  3. Combine pasta and sauce: Add cooked pasta and some of the reserved cooking water to the skillet with the tomato sauce. Cook until pasta is al dente and sauce thickens.
  4. Finish and serve: Stir in fresh basil and mint, adjust seasoning, and serve immediately.

Notes

  • XO sauce adds spice, but you can adjust the heat level with extra dried chiles. Omit chiles for a milder sauce.

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 serving
  • Calories: 410 kcal
  • Sugar: 8g
  • Sodium: 320mg
  • Fat: 15g
  • Saturated Fat: 2g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 10g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 60g
  • Fiber: 5g
  • Protein: 10g
  • Cholesterol: 0mg

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