Baked Tomato Olive Pasta

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.

I remember the first time I made this pasta it filled the kitchen with incredible aromas and quickly became a family favorite.

Ingredients

• 600 g cherry tomatoes: halved
• 4 cloves garlic: peeled and smashed
• 1 small red onion: thinly sliced (optional)
• 60 ml extra-virgin olive oil: (1/4 cup)
• 350 g dried pasta: penne fusilli or spaghetti
• 1 tsp dried oregano:
• 1/2 tsp chili flakes: (optional)
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper: to taste
• 15 g fresh basil leaves: (1/4 cup) torn
• 60 g grated Parmesan or Pecorino: (1/2 cup) optional

Instructions

Preheat the oven:

The oven to 200°C (400°F)

Arrange vegetables:

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

Roast tomatoes:

Roast in the oven for 25 30 minutes or until the tomatoes are caramelized and bursting

Cook pasta:

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

Toss pasta and tomatoes:

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

Add basil and cheese:

Fold in fresh basil and half the cheese if using Adjust seasoning

Serve:

Serve immediately garnished with remaining cheese and extra basil

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This recipe has become a staple during family dinners especially when we want something quick yet impressive.

Additional Tips

Use ripe cherry tomatoes for the sweetest roasted flavor and be gentle when tossing the pasta to keep the sauce silky.

Variations

Try adding sautéed mushrooms or spinach for a heartier dish or a sprinkle of crushed red pepper for more heat.

Serving Suggestions

This pasta pairs beautifully with a crisp white wine such as Pinot Grigio and a light green salad.

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Enjoy this delightful pasta with friends or family for an effortless Mediterranean meal.

Kitchen Help

→ What type of tomatoes work best?

Cherry tomatoes are preferred for their sweetness and ability to caramelize well during roasting, enhancing the dish's flavor.

→ Can I use different pasta shapes?

Yes, penne, fusilli, or spaghetti all work well, allowing the sauce to coat the pasta surfaces evenly.

→ How does reserving pasta water help?

The starchy pasta water adds silkiness to the sauce, helping it bind to the pasta better and enhancing texture.

→ Is it possible to make this vegan?

Omit the cheese or substitute with a plant-based alternative for a vegan-friendly option without sacrificing flavor.

→ What herbs complement this dish?

Fresh basil is used for its bright, aromatic notes, while dried oregano adds subtle earthiness; chili flakes can add gentle heat if desired.

→ Can I add olives or capers?

Yes, including olives or capers adds a briny Mediterranean touch that pairs well with the roasted tomatoes and olive oil.