A Mediterranean-inspired pasta with roasted tomatoes, garlic, olive oil, and basil for an elegant meal.
# What You'll Need:
→ Vegetables
01 - 2 1/2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
02 - 4 cloves garlic, peeled and smashed
03 - 1 small red onion, thinly sliced (optional)
→ Oils & Condiments
04 - 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
→ Pasta
05 - 12 oz dried pasta (penne, fusilli, or spaghetti)
→ Herbs & Seasoning
06 - 1 tsp dried oregano
07 - 1/2 tsp chili flakes (optional)
08 - Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
09 - 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, torn
→ Cheese (optional)
10 - 1/2 cup grated Parmesan or Pecorino
# Directions:
01 - Set the oven to 400°F and prepare for roasting.
02 - Place cherry tomatoes, garlic, and red onion (if using) in a large baking dish. Drizzle with olive oil, then sprinkle oregano, chili flakes, salt, and pepper. Toss thoroughly to coat.
03 - Roast in the oven for 25 to 30 minutes until tomatoes are caramelized and tender.
04 - Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook pasta until al dente according to package instructions. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water, then drain.
05 - Add drained pasta to the baking dish with roasted vegetables. Toss well, incorporating reserved pasta water gradually to create a smooth sauce.
06 - Fold in fresh basil and half of the cheese, if using. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.
07 - Transfer to plates and garnish with remaining cheese and basil leaves. Serve immediately.
