Imagine a plate of pasta so irresistible that it transforms an ordinary dinner into a gourmet experience. This Fettuccine with Roasted Tomatoes is not just a recipe; it's a culinary journey that brings the vibrant flavors of Italy right to your kitchen. With caramelized cherry tomatoes, fragrant garlic, and fresh basil, this dish promises to elevate your home cooking from mundane to magnificent in just 35 minutes.
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 25 mins
Total Time: 35 mins
Cuisine: Italian
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 12 oz fettuccine
- 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
- 3 tbsp olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to ensure easy cleanup and prevent sticking.
- In a medium bowl, toss halved cherry tomatoes with 2 tablespoons of olive oil, minced garlic, salt, and black pepper. Spread the tomatoes evenly on the prepared baking sheet, cut-side up.
- Roast the tomatoes in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, until they become slightly caramelized and start to burst, releasing their natural sweetness.
- While tomatoes are roasting, bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add fettuccine and cook according to package instructions until al dente, typically 8-10 minutes.
- Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta cooking water before draining the fettuccine. This starchy water will help create a silky sauce.
- Return the drained pasta to the pot. Add roasted tomatoes, remaining olive oil, chopped fresh basil, and grated Parmesan cheese. Gently toss to combine.
- If the pasta seems dry, add reserved pasta water gradually to create a light, glossy coating.
- Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed. Serve immediately, garnished with extra basil and Parmesan cheese.
Tips
- Choose ripe, sweet cherry tomatoes for the best roasting results. The deeper the color, the more intense the flavor.
- Don't rush the roasting process - those 15-20 minutes allow tomatoes to caramelize and develop a rich, concentrated sweetness.
- Always reserve pasta water before draining. Its starchy magic helps create a silky, clingy sauce that coats every strand of fettuccine.
- For extra depth, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes during roasting for a subtle heat.
- Use freshly grated Parmesan for maximum flavor - pre-grated cheese can't compare to the real thing.
- Serve immediately while the pasta is hot and the tomatoes are still warm for the best texture and taste experience.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 495kcal
Carbohydrates: g
Protein: g
Fat: g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 15mg
