Save 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 virgin 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 2530 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
Save 
Save Recipe FAQ
- → What type of pasta works best with this dish?
Penne, fusilli, or spaghetti are ideal choices as they hold the sauce well and complement the roasted tomatoes.
- → Can I prepare this dish vegan-friendly?
Yes, simply omit the cheese or use a plant-based alternative to keep it vegan without sacrificing flavor.
- → How can I enhance the flavor with herbs or spices?
Adding oregano and fresh basil provides traditional Mediterranean notes, while optional chili flakes give a gentle heat.
- → Is it necessary to reserve pasta water?
Reserving some pasta water helps adjust the sauce consistency, making it silkier and better integrated with the pasta.
- → What are good serving suggestions for this dish?
Pair it with a crisp white wine like Pinot Grigio, or add olives and capers for a more intense Mediterranean flavor.