This Roasted Tomato Pasta recipe is amazing, thanks to its incredible blend of ingredients that brings out a unique and fresh flavor. Roasting fresh cherry tomatoes takes their sweetness to a new level and dials up the flavor, creating a sauce that epitomizes sun-ripened goodness. It’s not just about the incredible taste – this dish is also a simple and quick dinner option.
I threw in some lemon zest and juice to perfectly complement the tomatoes, capers, and balsamic vinegar, adding a zesty, citrusy twist to the flavor.
My husband is not a huge pasta enthusiast, so when I whip up a dish he enjoys and raves about, I feel like I’ve won big!
He loved this roasted tomato pasta with cherry tomatoes recipe. It brings a light and refreshing flavor to the table, a delightful departure from the usual heavy and dense traditional spaghetti sauce.
But before we dig into this recipe, you might want to check out these other yummy dinner options!
WHY YOU’LL LOVE THIS ROASTED CHERRY TOMATO PASTA RECIPE
- Bursting with Flavor: The combination of roasted cherry tomatoes, garlic, capers, lemon juice, zest, balsamic vinegar, and mozzarella cheese creates an explosion of rich, zesty, and tangy flavors in every bite.
- Fresh and Zesty Twist: Adding lemon juice and zest adds a refreshing citrusy note that perfectly balances the savory elements.
- Complex Taste Harmony: The mingling of balsamic vinegar’s sweet depth and capers’ briny punch elevates the pasta to a balanced medley of tastes, offering a delightful contrast to the tomatoes.
- Cheesiness: The melted mozzarella cheese infuses the pasta with a luxurious and creamy texture that amplifies the overall richness of the dish.
- Lighter Alternative: Unlike traditional heavy pasta sauces, this recipe offers a lighter yet satisfying option, making it perfect for those seeking a flavorful meal without the usual heaviness.
- Simplicity and Speed: With its straightforward preparation and quick cooking time, this dish caters to busy lifestyles, offering a gourmet experience without the fuss.
- Picky Eaters’ Delight: With its mild yet enticing flavors and familiar ingredients, this dish quickly becomes a favorite with picky eaters.
INGREDIENTS TO MAKE ROASTED TOMATO PASTA
- Cherry Tomatoes: Natural sweetness and vibrant color.
- Garlic: Robust and aromatic depth.
- Capers: Briny complexity that complements the tomatoes.
- Balsamic Vinegar: Sweet and tangy contrast.
- Lemon Zest: Zesty aroma.
- Lemon Juice: Refreshing burst of citrusy flavor.
- Gemelli Pasta: Unique shape that holds the sauce well.
- Olive Oil: Rich base for the dish.
- Butter: Butter adds a rich and creamy texture to roasted tomato pasta
- White Wine: White wine brings a twist to roasted tomato pasta by infusing it with acidity and fruity flavors.
- Thyme Sprigs: Thyme brings a gentle, earthy aroma and a touch of herby complexity to the dish, adding that extra layer of flavor.
- Salt and Pepper: Enhance overall seasoning.
- Fresh Mozzarella: Creamy and indulgent texture.
- Fresh Basil: Herbal brightness.
- Parmesan Cheese: Savory, nutty accent.
HOW TO MAKE THIS EASY PASTA RECIPE
Step 1 – Prep Tomatoes
Cut cherry tomatoes in half and place on a baking tray.
Step 2 – Mix Ingredients
Add high-heat olive oil, garlic, capers, balsamic vinegar, lemon zest, lemon juice, thyme sprigs, chopped mozzarella, melted butter, white wine, and salt and pepper. Mix thoroughly on a baking tray with tomatoes.
Step 3 – Roast Tomatoes
Roast tomatoes in a preheated oven for 20 minutes. You can broil the tomatoes for 3-4 minutes if you want to toast the tops of the tomatoes.
Step 4 – Cook Pasta
Boil a pot of water and place pasta in water. Cook until pasta is al dente. Rinse and drain and place on a plate. Top pasta with tomato mixture and sprinkle with julienned basil and parmesan cheese.
Roasted Tomato Pasta
Ingredients
- ½ lb Gemelli pasta Any pasta will do
- 2 lbs cherry tomatoes Sliced in half
- ⅓ cup olive oil High heat light olive oil for roasting
- 2 tbsp garlic minced
- 2 tbsp capers Drain and measure
- lemon juice from one lemon
- 3 tbsp balsamic vinegar
- lemon zest from one lemon
- fresh thyme About four sprigs of thyme
- 8 oz Fresh Mozzarella Cheese Cherry size and cut in half. You can use feta cheese if you prefer.
- ¼ cup butter melted and slightly cooled
- ⅓ cup white wine
- salt To taste
- pepper To taste
- basil leaves
Instructions
Preheat Oven
- Preheat oven to 400°
Prep Tomatoes
- Wash and slice cherry tomatoes in half and place on a baking tray.
Mix Ingredients
- Add high-heat olive oil, garlic, capers, balsamic vinegar, lemon zest, lemon juice, thyme sprigs, chopped mozzarella, melted butter, white wine, and salt and pepper. Mix thoroughly on a baking tray with tomatoes.
Roast Tomatoes
- Roast tomatoes in a preheated oven for 20 minutes. You can broil the tomatoes for 3-4 minutes if you want to toast the tops of the tomatoes.
Cook Pasta
- Boil a pot of water and place pasta in water. Cook until pasta is al dente. Rinse and drain and place on a plate. Top pasta with tomato mixture and sprinkle with julienned basil and parmesan cheese.
Nutrition
HOW TO STORE AND REHEAT PASTA
Storage: Store the pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
Reheating: Reheat the pasta gently in a microwave-safe dish, covered with a damp paper towel, or quickly sauté it in a pan with a splash of water to prevent it from drying out.
POPULAR SUBSTITUTIONS AND ADDITIONS
- Pasta: Instead of regular pasta, try whole wheat or gluten-free pasta for a healthier twist.
- Sundried Tomatoes: Swap out the cherry tomatoes with sun-dried tomatoes for a deeper, more intense flavor.
- Add Greens: Incorporate some sautéed spinach or arugula to add a touch of freshness and a burst of color to your dish.
- Add Nuts: Toss in some toasted pine nuts for a crunch and a nutty undertone that complements the tomatoes.
- Add Different Cheeses: Introduce a handful of crumbled feta or goat cheese to lend a creamy, tangy element that balances the acidity of the tomatoes.
- Add Some Protein: Add Italian sausage, crispy bacon, or shrimp to this dish for protein. Both these ingredients will flavor this pasta well.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Roasting tomatoes concentrates their flavors, caramelizes sugars, and makes their texture tender and complex.
Roasting tomatoes enhances their natural sweetness and caramelizes their flavors, resulting in a richer and more intense taste.
You can make roasted cherry tomato pasta, add them to salads, create tomato sauces, or even make sun-dried tomatoes.
You can balance the acidity by adding a pinch of sugar to the sauce or by incorporating creamy elements like cheese or a drizzle of cream.
Along with cherry tomatoes, try roasted red peppers, zucchini, or even caramelized onions for additional flavors.
Yes, you can experiment with different tomato varieties, but keep in mind that it might slightly alter the flavor and texture of the dish. But I love using sweet cherry tomatoes for their amazing flavor!
You can swap in feta if the cooked mozzarella chunks aren’t your thing. Personally, I’m a fan of mozzarella’s mild flavor, and the cheesy chunks don’t bother me – its meaty texture adds something nice to the mix.
I hope you have a chance to make this delicious fresh-roasted tomato pasta recipe!
Cheers,
Photo Credits: MyPhotography.com
- Flower Cookies Recipe - May 16, 2025
- Chocolate Chip Bars Recipe - May 15, 2025
- My Favorite Easy Dinner Ideas - May 10, 2025
Leave a Reply