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Easy Roasted Cherry Tomato Pasta Recipe with Garlic and Basil for Perfect Weeknight Dinner

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A simple and flavorful roasted cherry tomato pasta with garlic and basil, perfect for quick weeknight dinners using everyday ingredients.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 pints (about 16 ounces or 450 grams) cherry tomatoes
  • 4 large garlic cloves, thinly sliced or minced
  • 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
  • A generous handful fresh basil leaves, torn
  • 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
  • 12 ounces (about 340 grams) spaghetti, linguine, or favorite long pasta
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Freshly grated Parmesan cheese for serving (optional)
  • Zest of one lemon (optional)

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
  2. In a mixing bowl, toss the cherry tomatoes with olive oil, sliced garlic, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes if using. Ensure all tomatoes are well coated.
  3. Spread the tomatoes evenly on a rimmed baking sheet and roast for 20-25 minutes until skins wrinkle and burst, releasing juices. Watch closely to avoid burning the garlic.
  4. While tomatoes roast, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente, about 8-10 minutes.
  5. Before draining, reserve about 1/2 cup (120 ml) of starchy pasta water.
  6. Drain pasta and return to the pot or a large mixing bowl. Add roasted tomatoes and juices, stirring gently. Add reserved pasta water a little at a time to achieve a silky sauce.
  7. Tear fresh basil leaves and fold into the pasta off the heat to preserve flavor and color.
  8. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper. Optionally, grate fresh Parmesan cheese and sprinkle lemon zest over the dish.
  9. Serve immediately while hot.

Notes

Watch garlic carefully during roasting to avoid bitterness. Adding reserved pasta water helps create a silky sauce. Fresh basil should be added off heat to preserve its aroma and color. Leftovers keep well for up to 2 days refrigerated; reheat gently with a splash of water or olive oil.

Nutrition

Keywords: roasted cherry tomato pasta, garlic pasta, basil pasta, easy weeknight dinner, simple pasta recipe, vegetarian pasta, quick pasta recipe

Find it online: https://siennaspoon.com/easy-roasted-cherry-tomato-pasta-recipe-with-garlic-and-basil-for-perfect-weeknight-dinner/