Creamy Corn Penne with Basil & Cherry Tomatoes (vegan)

ears of corn, shucked

penne pasta, I used gluten free corn pasta

unsalted butter, I used Earth Balance

medium shallot, minced

garlic, minced

Juice of 1/2 a lemon, plus finely grated zest for garnish

salt and pepper

chopped fresh basil, plus more for garnish if desired

small container cherry tomatoes, cut in half, I used an 11 ounce container