Introduction
Transform humble tomatoes and pantry staples into a vibrant, flavorful pasta dish that’s as good for you as it is delicious! This Creamy Roasted Tomato Pasta recipe is a celebration of fresh, wholesome ingredients, showcasing the natural sweetness of roasted tomatoes and the satisfying heartiness of whole wheat pasta. It’s a perfect weeknight meal that’s quick to prepare and packed with nutrients to fuel your day.
Why This Works
This recipe shines because of its simplicity and incredible flavor. Roasting the tomatoes brings out their natural sweetness and intensifies their umami notes. Combining them with creamy, nutritional yeast creates a rich sauce that’s both decadent and dairy-free. The addition of garlic and fresh basil adds a bright, herbaceous touch, balancing the richness of the sauce perfectly. It’s a complete meal, packed with vegetables and wholesome carbohydrates.
Key Ingredients
🍅 2 lbs ripe tomatoes, halved
🧄 4 cloves garlic, minced
🧅 1 small red onion, chopped
🌿 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
🍝 1 lb whole wheat pasta
🧀 2 tbsp nutritional yeast
🥄 2 tbsp olive oil
🧂 Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
1️⃣ Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Toss the halved tomatoes, minced garlic, and chopped red onion with 1 tablespoon of olive oil, salt, and pepper on a large baking sheet.
2️⃣ Roast for 30-40 minutes, or until the tomatoes are softened and slightly caramelized.
3️⃣ While the tomatoes are roasting, cook the whole wheat pasta according to package directions.
4️⃣ Once the pasta is cooked, reserve about 1/2 cup of the pasta water before draining.
5️⃣ Add the roasted tomatoes and garlic to a large bowl. Stir in the nutritional yeast, remaining olive oil, and chopped basil.
6️⃣ Add the cooked pasta to the bowl and toss to coat. Add a little pasta water at a time if needed to create a creamy consistency.
7️⃣ Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Handy Tips
- Use different colored tomatoes for a beautiful visual appeal and a variation in sweetness and acidity.
- For a deeper flavor, roast the tomatoes for a longer time, even up to an hour, until they’re deeply caramelized.
- If you don’t have fresh basil, you can substitute with 1 teaspoon of dried basil.
Heat Control
Roasting the tomatoes at 400°F (200°C) allows them to soften and caramelize without burning. The heat draws out their natural sugars, enhancing their sweetness and flavor. Careful attention to oven temperature is key for achieving the perfect balance of texture and flavor.
Crunch Factor
While this recipe focuses on a creamy texture, you can add a delightful crunch by topping the finished pasta with toasted pine nuts or a sprinkle of toasted breadcrumbs.
Pro Kitchen Tricks
- For a smoother sauce, blend the roasted tomatoes slightly before adding them to the pasta.
- Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a touch of heat.
- A squeeze of lemon juice at the end brightens the flavors beautifully.
Storage Tips
Store leftover pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors will meld beautifully overnight, making it even tastier the next day!
Gift Packaging Ideas
This dish is perfect for a potluck or a casual get-together. Present it in a beautiful, rustic bowl or a stylish pasta serving dish. A sprig of fresh basil as a garnish adds an elegant touch.
Flavor Variations
🌟 Spicy: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of your favorite hot sauce to the sauce.
🌟 Creamier: Add a tablespoon or two of cashew cream or coconut cream for extra richness.
🌟 Herby: Incorporate other fresh herbs like oregano, thyme, or parsley.
🌟 Cheesy (vegan): Add a tablespoon of vegan parmesan cheese for a sharper, more savory flavor.
Troubleshooting
- Sauce too thick: Add a little more pasta water to thin it out.
- Sauce too thin: Simmer the sauce for a few minutes to reduce it.
- Tomatoes burnt: Reduce the oven temperature next time and check them frequently.
FAQ
- Can I use canned tomatoes? Yes, but roasted fresh tomatoes offer a superior flavor.
- Can I use other types of pasta? Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with different shapes and types of pasta.
- Is this recipe gluten-free? No, it uses whole wheat pasta. You can substitute with gluten-free pasta for a gluten-free option.
- Can I make this ahead of time? You can roast the tomatoes ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator. Assemble the pasta just before serving.
- How many servings does this make? This recipe makes approximately 4-6 servings.
Conclusion
This Creamy Roasted Tomato Pasta is a testament to the power of simple, wholesome ingredients. It’s a delicious and nutritious meal that’s sure to become a family favorite. We hope you enjoy it! Share your creations with us on social media – we’d love to see your versions of this vibrant and flavorful dish!
Radiant Red Tomato Pasta: A Wellness Boost in Every Bite
A vibrant and healthy pasta dish packed with fresh tomatoes, herbs, and a hint of garlic, perfect for a nourishing meal.
Ingredients
- 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 12 ounces whole grain pasta
- 1/2 cup fresh basil, chopped
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions
- In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sautu00e9 until fragrant, about 1 minute.
- Add the halved cherry tomatoes, dried basil, oregano, salt, and pepper. Cook for about 20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the tomatoes have broken down and created a sauce.
- While the sauce is cooking, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the whole grain pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water, then drain the pasta.
- Combine the drained pasta with the tomato sauce in the skillet. If the sauce is too thick, add reserved pasta water a little at a time until desired consistency is reached.
- Stir in the fresh basil and mix well. Serve hot, topped with Parmesan cheese if desired.
Tips
- For added flavor, roast the cherry tomatoes in the oven at 200u00b0C for 20 minutes before adding them to the skillet.
- Experiment with different herbs like thyme or parsley for a unique twist on the flavor profile.