Imagine a dish that captures the essence of Italian cuisine with a burst of roasted tomato flavor that will transport you straight to the sun-drenched hills of Tuscany. This Roasted Tomato Pasta Salad is not just another recipe—it's a culinary journey that transforms simple ingredients into a mouthwatering masterpiece. Perfect for summer gatherings, quick weeknight dinners, or when you want to impress your guests with minimal effort, this recipe promises to become your new go-to comfort food that's both elegant and incredibly delicious.
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 40 mins
Cuisine: Italian
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 12 oz pasta
- 2 cups cherry tomatoes
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup parmesan cheese, grated
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This will ensure the tomatoes roast perfectly, bringing out their natural sweetness.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cherry tomatoes with 2 tablespoons of olive oil, minced garlic, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Toss until the tomatoes are well coated.
- Spread the seasoned cherry tomatoes evenly on a baking sheet. Make sure they are in a single layer to ensure even roasting.
- Roast the tomatoes in the preheated oven for about 25-30 minutes, or until they are soft and slightly caramelized. Stir halfway through to promote even cooking.
- While the tomatoes are roasting, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. This usually takes about 8-10 minutes.
- Once the pasta is cooked, drain it and reserve about 1/2 cup of the pasta cooking water. This starchy water will help to create a sauce later.
- In a large bowl, combine the drained pasta with the roasted tomatoes and any juices from the baking sheet. Add the remaining olive oil and mix well.
- If the pasta seems dry, gradually add some of the reserved pasta water until you reach your desired consistency.
- Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese, and season with additional salt and pepper to taste. Mix until everything is evenly combined.
- Transfer the pasta salad to a serving dish or individual plates. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and added flavor.
- Serve the roasted tomato pasta salad warm or at room temperature, and enjoy your delicious Italian-inspired dish!
Tips
- Choose the right tomatoes: Use ripe, sweet cherry tomatoes for the best roasting results. Look for tomatoes that are firm but have a deep, vibrant color.
- Don't overcrowd the baking sheet: Ensure tomatoes are in a single layer for even roasting and caramelization.
- Reserve pasta water: The starchy water is a secret weapon for creating a silky, cohesive sauce.
- Temperature matters: Serve the pasta salad warm or at room temperature to maximize flavor development.
- Customize your herbs: While parsley is classic, try basil or oregano for a different flavor profile.
- Make it ahead: This pasta salad tastes even better the next day, making it perfect for meal prep.
- Quality ingredients are key: Use good olive oil and freshly grated Parmesan for the best taste.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 520kcal
Carbohydrates: g
Protein: g
Fat: g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 10mg
