Roasted Cherry Tomato Pasta

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This pasta is a crowd-pleaser, thanks to its balance of sweet, savory, and tangy flavors. The roasted cherry tomatoes create a rich sauce without the need for heavy creams or complex seasonings. The slow roasting process brings out the sweetness of the tomatoes while intensifying their flavor. With garlic, olive oil, and fresh basil, this dish is aromatic and full of delicious depth. It’s also easy to make and requires minimal prep time—perfect for a weeknight dinner when you’re short on time but craving something fresh and tasty.

Ingredients

• 200g pasta (your choice of type, such as spaghetti, penne, or fusilli)

• 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved

• 3 tablespoons olive oil

• 3 cloves garlic, minced

• Salt and pepper, to taste

• 1 teaspoon dried oregano (optional)

• Fresh basil leaves, torn (for garnish)

• ¼ cup grated Parmesan (optional, for serving)

• 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar (optional, for added depth of flavor)

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).

2. Roast the tomatoes: Spread the halved cherry tomatoes on a baking sheet. Drizzle with 2 tablespoons of olive oil and season with salt, pepper, and dried oregano (if using). Toss the tomatoes to coat them evenly and then roast for 20-25 minutes, or until the tomatoes are soft and slightly caramelized.

3. Cook the pasta: While the tomatoes are roasting, bring a pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta, reserving ½ cup of pasta water.

4. Prepare the sauce: Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant. Once the tomatoes are roasted, add them to the skillet (along with all the juices from the baking sheet) and toss gently to combine. If the sauce is too thick, add a little of the reserved pasta water to loosen it up.

5. Combine the pasta and sauce: Add the cooked pasta to the skillet with the roasted tomato sauce and toss to coat the pasta evenly. If you like, drizzle with balsamic vinegar for extra depth and a tangy kick.

6. Serve: Plate the pasta and garnish with fresh basil leaves and a sprinkle of Parmesan (if using). Serve immediately and enjoy!

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 2-3

• Prep Time: 10 minutes

• Cook Time: 30 minutes

• Total Time: 40 minutes

Variations

• Add vegetables: You can add sautéed spinach, zucchini, or roasted bell peppers to the pasta for extra color and nutrients.

• Add protein: If you’d like, you can add grilled chicken, roasted chickpeas, or even a poached egg for extra protein.

• Spicy roasted tomatoes: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the tomatoes before roasting for a spicy kick.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Leftover pasta can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

• Reheating: To reheat, place the pasta in a skillet with a splash of water or olive oil over low heat, stirring occasionally until heated through.

FAQs

Can I use regular tomatoes instead of cherry tomatoes?

Yes, you can substitute regular tomatoes, but cherry tomatoes have a sweeter flavor that works well in this dish. If using regular tomatoes, cut them into smaller pieces before roasting.

Can I make this pasta ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the roasted tomato sauce in advance and store it in the fridge. Just cook the pasta fresh when ready to serve.

Is this recipe vegan?

This recipe is vegan if you omit the Parmesan cheese or use a dairy-free alternative.

Can I make the sauce spicier?

Yes! Add red pepper flakes or chili powder to the roasted tomatoes or to the sauce to give it some heat.

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Absolutely! You can use any pasta shape you prefer, such as spaghetti, fusilli, penne, or rigatoni.

Can I freeze leftover roasted tomato sauce?

Yes, you can freeze the roasted tomato sauce for up to 2-3 months. Just store it in an airtight container, and reheat it when needed.

How can I make this dish creamier?

For a creamier version, you can stir in some plant-based cream, regular cream, or a spoonful of vegan cream cheese to the sauce before tossing with the pasta.

Can I use fresh garlic instead of garlic powder?

Yes, fresh minced garlic gives the sauce a more robust flavor. Add it to the skillet with the olive oil and sauté before adding the roasted tomatoes.

Can I add a protein to this dish?

Yes, grilled chicken, roasted shrimp, or even tofu would make great additions to this pasta dish for added protein.

How do I make sure the pasta isn’t too dry?

If the pasta feels dry after combining with the sauce, add a bit of the reserved pasta water to loosen it up and make the sauce more velvety.

Conclusion

This Roasted Cherry Tomato Pasta is the perfect dish for those who love simple yet flavorful meals. The slow-roasted tomatoes bring out their natural sweetness, and when combined with garlic, olive oil, and fresh basil, they create a delightful sauce that’s both light and satisfying. With minimal ingredients and a short prep time, it’s ideal for busy weeknights or a casual dinner with family and friends. Enjoy this wholesome, comforting meal that’s full of fresh, vibrant flavors!