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Gemelli Pasta Recipe

Gemelli Pasta Recipe

This Gemelli Pasta Recipe is a simple, fresh pasta dish made with garlic, tomatoes, basil, olive oil, and parmesan. It has a light, glossy sauce that clings to every spiral of pasta. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner when you want something easy but full of flavor.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Servings: 4
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 420
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 1 pound gemelli pasta
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 3 cloves garlic thinly sliced or minced
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes halved
  • 1/2 cup parmesan cheese freshly grated
  • 1/4 cup pasta water reserved
  • 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves chopped
  • 1 teaspoon salt for pasta water
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper freshly ground

Equipment

  • Large pot
  • Large skillet
  • Strainer

Method
 

  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook gemelli pasta until al dente, about 8–10 minutes. The pasta should feel firm but cooked through.
  2. Reserve about 1/4 cup of pasta water before draining. Set pasta aside.
  3. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat until warm and slightly shimmering.
  4. Add garlic and cook for about 1 minute until fragrant and lightly golden. Do not let it brown.
  5. Add cherry tomatoes and sauté for 3–4 minutes until they soften and start to burst.
  6. Add cooked pasta into the skillet and toss well so everything is coated. The pasta should look glossy.
  7. Pour in reserved pasta water and stir to create a light sauce that clings to the pasta.
  8. Mix in parmesan cheese and black pepper until melted and creamy-looking.
  9. Remove from heat and stir in fresh basil just before serving for a fresh finish.

Notes

  • Always save pasta water because it helps the sauce stick to the pasta.
  • Keep heat medium when cooking garlic to avoid bitterness.
  • Fresh basil should be added at the end to keep its flavor bright.