Imagine twirling your fork into a plate of perfectly crafted orecchiette, where roasted cherry tomatoes burst with intense flavor and sun-dried tomatoes add a rich, tangy depth. This isn't just another pasta dish—it's a culinary journey through the sun-drenched landscapes of Italy, transformed into a simple yet extraordinary meal that will make your taste buds dance with delight. Get ready to impress your family and friends with a restaurant-worthy pasta that's surprisingly easy to create at home!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 20 mins
Total Time: 35 mins
Cuisine: Italian
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 12 oz orecchiette pasta
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Toss the halved cherry tomatoes with 2 tablespoons of olive oil, salt, and pepper. Spread them cut-side up on the prepared baking sheet.
- Roast the cherry tomatoes in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes until they are slightly caramelized and softened. Remove from oven and set aside.
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add the orecchiette pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente, typically 10-12 minutes.
- While the pasta is cooking, heat the remaining olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant, being careful not to burn.
- Add the chopped sun-dried tomatoes to the skillet and cook for an additional 2 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta cooking water, then drain the pasta in a colander.
- Add the cooked pasta to the skillet with garlic and sun-dried tomatoes. Toss to combine, adding reserved pasta water if needed to create a light sauce.
- Gently fold in the roasted cherry tomatoes, being careful not to break them.
- Season with additional salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
- Transfer to serving plates and garnish with fresh torn basil leaves.
- Serve immediately while hot, optionally drizzling with extra olive oil if desired.
Tips
- Choose high-quality ingredients: Fresh cherry tomatoes and good olive oil make a significant difference in the final taste.
- Don't rush the roasting process: Allow cherry tomatoes to caramelize slowly, which concentrates their natural sweetness.
- Reserve pasta water: This starchy liquid is a secret weapon for creating a silky, cohesive sauce that clings perfectly to the pasta.
- Watch your garlic carefully: Sauté until fragrant but not browned to prevent bitterness.
- Use fresh basil as a finishing touch: Tear leaves just before serving to maintain their vibrant flavor and aroma.
- For extra richness, consider adding a sprinkle of Parmesan or pecorino cheese when serving.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 495kcal
Carbohydrates: g
Protein: g
Fat: g
Saturated Fat: 2g
Cholesterol: 0mg
