This Easy Roasted Cherry Tomato Pasta is a bright and tasty dish that’s super simple to whip up! Juicy cherry tomatoes get roasted to perfection, making them sweet and flavorful.
Pair it with pasta and a sprinkle of cheese, and you’re in for a treat! I love how quick it is to make this meal—perfect for busy days or when you’re just feeling a little lazy. 🍝
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cherry Tomatoes: These are essential for this dish, bringing sweetness and juiciness. If you’re in a pinch, grape tomatoes work too! They have a similar flavor and texture. You could also use canned diced tomatoes if fresh aren’t available.
Olive Oil: Olive oil adds richness and flavor. Extra virgin olive oil is my favorite for its taste, but you can use regular olive oil or even avocado oil if that’s what you have on hand.
Garlic: Fresh garlic is key for depth of flavor. If you’re out, garlic powder can work, but fresh has a better taste. You could also try shallots for a milder flavor.
Pasta: While spaghetti is classic, feel free to swap in your favorite pasta type like whole wheat or gluten-free varieties. You can even go for a fun shape like farfalle or fusilli!
Parmesan Cheese: This adds a nice salty finish. If you’re dairy-free, nutritional yeast can be a good substitute for a cheesy flavor, or use vegan cheese shreds.
How Do I Roast Cherry Tomatoes to Maximize Flavor?
Roasting cherry tomatoes is the best way to bring out their natural sweetness and flavor. To achieve the perfect roasted tomatoes, follow these tips:
- Use a hot oven (400°F/200°C) to caramelize the sugars in the tomatoes.
- Cut them in half and toss with olive oil, salt, and pepper. This allows the tomatoes to roast evenly.
- Spread them in a single layer on the baking sheet. Crowding them can cause steaming instead of roasting.
- Cook for 20-25 minutes until they’re bubbly and slightly blistered—this is when they’re at their best!
Let those roasted tomatoes shine in your pasta dish, bringing lovely brightness and texture. Enjoy your cooking! 🍅
Easy Roasted Cherry Tomato Pasta
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Pasta:
- 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
- 3 tablespoons olive oil, divided
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 8 oz (225g) pasta (spaghetti, linguine, or penne)
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus extra for serving
- Juice of half a lemon (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful pasta dish takes about 10 minutes to prep and another 30 minutes to cook, making the total time around 40 minutes. It’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or when you want a tasty meal without the effort!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This high heat is key for roasting the cherry tomatoes perfectly!
2. Prepare the Tomatoes:
On a baking sheet, toss the halved cherry tomatoes with 2 tablespoons of olive oil, minced garlic, salt, and pepper. Make sure they’re mixed well and then spread them out in a single layer. This will help them roast evenly.
3. Roast the Tomatoes:
Pop the baking sheet into the oven and roast the tomatoes for about 20-25 minutes. You want them to become soft, caramelized, and slightly blistered to bring out their sweet flavors!
4. Cook the Pasta:
While the tomatoes are roasting, cook the pasta according to the package instructions until it’s al dente. Remember to reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water before draining the pasta!
5. Combine Pasta and Tomatoes:
In a large bowl or skillet, combine the cooked pasta, roasted tomatoes (along with all those delicious juices), the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil, red pepper flakes (if you like a bit of heat), and chopped fresh basil. Toss everything together until well mixed.
6. Perfect the Sauce:
If the pasta seems dry, add the reserved pasta water a little at a time to help loosen the sauce to your liking. It should be nicely coated!
7. Add Finishing Touches:
If you’re using lemon juice, stir it in now for a fresh kick, and then sprinkle with Parmesan cheese to add a savory finish!
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve your pasta immediately with extra Parmesan and fresh basil on top. Enjoy your fresh and flavorful roasted cherry tomato pasta!
This dish is sure to impress with its vibrant colors and delightful taste! 🍅🍝
FAQ – Easy Roasted Cherry Tomato Pasta
Can I Use Different Types of Tomatoes?
Absolutely! While cherry tomatoes work best for their sweetness, you can use grape tomatoes or even small Roma tomatoes. Just adjust the roasting time if they are larger, as they may need a bit longer to get caramelized.
What If I Don’t Have Fresh Basil?
If fresh basil isn’t available, you can substitute with dried basil. Use about 1 teaspoon, as dried herbs are more concentrated in flavor. Alternatively, try using fresh parsley or arugula for a different flavor profile!
Can I Make This Pasta Vegan?
Yes! To make this dish vegan, simply omit the Parmesan cheese or substitute it with a vegan cheese option or nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor. You can also add extra veggies like spinach or kale for more nutrition!
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm gently on the stove or microwave, adding a splash of water or olive oil to keep it moist.
