Pin It A vibrant, Mediterranean-inspired pasta dish featuring sweet roasted tomatoes, garlic, and fragrant olive oil, tossed with al dente pasta for a simple yet elegant meal.
Ingredients
- Vegetables: 600 g cherry tomatoes, halved 4 cloves garlic, peeled and smashed 1 small red onion, thinly sliced (optional)
- Oils & Condiments: 60 ml (1/4 cup) extra virg in olive oil
- Pasta: 350 g dried pasta (penne, fusilli, or spaghetti)
- Herbs & Seasoning: 1 tsp dried oregano 1/2 tsp chili flakes (optional) Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste 15 g (1/4 cup) fresh basil leaves, torn
- Cheese (optional): 60 g (1/2 cup) grated Parmesan or Pecorino
Instructions
- Step 1:
- Preheat the oven to 200°C (400°F)
- Step 2:
- Arrange the cherry tomatoes, garlic, and red onion (if using) in a large baking dish Drizzle with olive oil, sprinkle with oregano, chili flakes, salt, and pepper Toss to coat evenly
- Step 3:
- Roast in the oven for 25 30 minutes, or until the tomatoes are caramelized and bursting
- Step 4:
- Meanwhile, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente Reserve 120 ml (1/2 cup) of pasta cooking water, then drain the pasta
- Step 5:
- Add the drained pasta to the baking dish with the roasted tomatoes Toss well, adding reserved pasta water as needed to create a silky sauce
- Step 6:
- Fold in fresh basil and half the cheese (if using) Adjust seasoning
- Step 7:
- Serve immediately, garnished with remaining cheese and extra basil
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Pin It Recipe Questions & Answers
- → What type of pasta works best?
Short pasta like penne or fusilli hold the sauce well, but spaghetti can also be used for a lighter texture.
- → Can I make this dish vegan?
Yes, simply omit the cheese or substitute with a plant-based alternative for a vegan-friendly version.
- → How to achieve caramelized tomatoes?
Roast cherry tomatoes at 200°C for 25-30 minutes until soft and slightly browned, intensifying their natural sweetness.
- → What herbs complement this dish?
Fresh basil adds brightness, while dried oregano enhances the Mediterranean flavor profile. Chili flakes offer a subtle kick if desired.
- → Can I add other ingredients for variation?
Olives or capers can be added for extra briny notes, and grated Parmesan or Pecorino enriches the depth of flavor.