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Roasted Tomato Pasta Recipe for Perfect Weeknight Dinners

roasted tomato pasta - featured image

This roasted tomato pasta recipe combines caramelized tomatoes, garlic, and pasta for a simple, satisfying, and flavorful dish perfect for weeknight dinners or entertaining guests.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1.5 pounds cherry tomatoes, washed and halved
  • 6 cloves garlic, peeled and smashed
  • 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon kosher or sea salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
  • 12 ounces spaghetti or linguine
  • 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chiffonaded
  • 1/4 cup grated or shaved Parmesan cheese (optional)
  • 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)

Instructions

  1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
  2. Place the halved cherry tomatoes and smashed garlic cloves on the baking sheet. Drizzle with olive oil, sprinkle with salt and black pepper, and toss to coat evenly.
  3. Roast the tomatoes in the oven for 20-25 minutes, stirring halfway through, until soft and slightly caramelized.
  4. While the tomatoes roast, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package instructions. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
  5. In a large mixing bowl, toss the cooked pasta with the roasted tomatoes, garlic, and any juices from the baking sheet. Add reserved pasta water as needed to loosen the sauce.
  6. Stir in the fresh basil and Parmesan cheese. Sprinkle with red pepper flakes for a hint of spice.
  7. Plate the pasta, drizzle with a bit more olive oil, and garnish with extra basil or cheese if desired.

Notes

Use fresh, high-quality ingredients for the best flavor. Don’t skip reserving pasta water—it helps create a silky sauce. Customize the recipe with extra garlic, basil, or cheese to suit your preferences.

Nutrition

Keywords: roasted tomato pasta, weeknight dinner, easy pasta recipe, vegetarian pasta, Italian comfort food