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Pasta Hearts

Pasta Hearts: A Romantic Twist for Your Valentine’s Dinner

This Valentine's Day Pasta Hearts recipe features a delightful vegetarian dish with heart-shaped pasta, cherry tomatoes, and garlic, creating a romantic dining experience.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Servings: 2 plates
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 450

Ingredients
  

For the Pasta
  • 2 cups heart-shaped pasta Feel free to use any pasta shape if unavailable.
For the Sauce
  • 2 cups cherry tomatoes Diced regular tomatoes can also work.
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil Substitute with any light cooking oil if needed.
  • 2 cloves garlic Fresh garlic is best, but powdered garlic can be used as a backup (1/8 tsp).
  • 1 pinch red pepper flakes Omit for a milder taste or swap for black pepper.
  • 1 cup fresh basil leaves Dried basil can substitute (1 tsp) in a pinch.
For the Finish
  • 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese Easily swapped for pecorino or a vegan cheese alternative.
  • to taste salt Adjust according to your flavor preferences.
  • to taste pepper Adjust according to your flavor preferences.
For Garnish
  • a few fresh basil leaves Parsley or microgreens can work as substitutes.

Equipment

  • large pot
  • colander
  • Large Skillet
  • cutting board
  • knife

Method
 

Cooking Steps
  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil over high heat. Add the heart-shaped pasta and cook according to the package instructions, until al dente, typically about 7-9 minutes. Drain the pasta in a colander and set it aside.
  2. In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Add 2 minced garlic cloves and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant and lightly golden.
  3. Stir in 2 cups of halved cherry tomatoes and a pinch of red pepper flakes. Cook for 5-7 minutes, until the tomatoes begin to soften and burst.
  4. Gently add the cooked heart-shaped pasta to the skillet, tossing it with the tomato mixture. Stir in a handful of chopped fresh basil leaves and half of the grated Parmesan cheese. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until heated through.
  5. Taste the dish and adjust the seasonings with salt and pepper to your liking.
  6. Plate the Pasta Hearts by dividing the mixture among two warm plates. Garnish with the remaining Parmesan cheese and a few extra basil leaves. Serve immediately.

Nutrition

Serving: 1plateCalories: 450kcalCarbohydrates: 60gProtein: 15gFat: 20gSaturated Fat: 6gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 8gCholesterol: 15mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 500mgFiber: 5gSugar: 3gVitamin A: 800IUVitamin C: 25mgCalcium: 200mgIron: 2mg

Notes

Store leftover Pasta Hearts in an airtight container for up to 2 days in the fridge. If freezing, store in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Reheat gently on the stovetop.

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