Roasted Tomato Garlic Pasta
Roasted Tomato Garlic Pasta is a simple yet flavorful dish that beautifully highlights the rich, sweet taste of roasted tomatoes and the aromatic essence of garlic. This recipe is easy to follow and perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a special gathering with friends and family.
Why Make This Recipe
There are many reasons to love this dish! First, it brings together fresh ingredients that provide a burst of flavor. The roasting process enhances the sweetness of the tomatoes and transforms garlic into a creamy delight. Plus, it’s a quick recipe that can be made in under an hour, making it great for busy days. Best of all, this pasta is versatile, so you can customize it with different herbs or add-ins.
How to Make Roasted Tomato Garlic Pasta
Ingredients
- 2 lbs fresh ripe tomatoes (Roma or cherry), halved or quartered
- 6-8 garlic cloves, unpeeled
- 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil, plus more for drizzling
- 12 oz pasta of choice (spaghetti, linguine, or other long pasta)
- 1/4 cup fresh basil or parsley, chopped
- Salt, to taste
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Parmesan cheese (optional), for serving
Directions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Slice the tomatoes into halves or quarters depending on size and separate garlic cloves but leave them unpeeled.
- Place them on a baking sheet, drizzle generously with olive oil, and sprinkle salt and pepper. Roast for 25-30 minutes until the tomatoes are soft and caramelized, and the garlic becomes creamy inside the skin.
- While the tomatoes roast, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining the pasta.
- Squeeze the roasted garlic from its skins into a blender or bowl with the roasted tomatoes. Blend or mash gently to form a chunky sauce. Add a drizzle of olive oil and some reserved pasta water gradually until the sauce reaches a silky, saucy consistency.
- Toss the cooked pasta in the tomato-garlic sauce to coat evenly. Add additional pasta water or olive oil if needed to achieve the perfect smoothness. Mix in fresh chopped basil or parsley for a bright, herbal contrast.
- Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Serve immediately with a generous sprinkle of Parmesan cheese if using, and finish with a drizzle of olive oil.
How to Serve Roasted Tomato Garlic Pasta
Serve this pasta hot, topped with extra fresh herbs and a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese. You can accompany it with a side salad or garlic bread for a complete meal. A drizzle of olive oil on top just before serving adds an extra touch of flavor.
How to Store Roasted Tomato Garlic Pasta
If you have leftovers, store the pasta in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a pan over low heat, adding a splash of water or olive oil to prevent it from drying out.
Tips to Make Roasted Tomato Garlic Pasta
- Use ripe, high-quality tomatoes for the best flavor.
- Don’t rush the roasting process; let the tomatoes get caramelized for the best sweetness.
- Feel free to adjust the garlic amount according to your taste.
- Experiment with different herbs like thyme or oregano for a twist!
Variation
You can add cooked protein like grilled chicken or shrimp for a heartier meal. For a vegetarian twist, add sautéed mushrooms or spinach to the pasta before serving.
FAQs
1. Can I use canned tomatoes instead of fresh?
Yes, canned tomatoes can work in a pinch. Just skip the roasting step and simmer the tomatoes with garlic for a few minutes.
2. What type of pasta works best?
Any long pasta like spaghetti or linguine works well, but feel free to use your favorite type!
3. Can I freeze leftovers?
Yes, you can freeze the sauce separately from the pasta for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge before reheating.
