Roasted Tomato Pasta with Basil is a simple yet deeply flavorful dish that celebrates fresh ingredients and classic Italian cooking principles. Slow-roasted tomatoes develop a natural sweetness and slight caramelization, creating a rich, rustic sauce without the need for heavy additions.

When tossed with al dente pasta and finished with fragrant fresh basil, this dish becomes comforting, vibrant, and satisfying. It is the kind of recipe that proves how a few well-prepared ingredients can create an unforgettable meal, perfect for both busy weeknights and relaxed weekend dinners.

Why I Love This Recipe

I love this recipe because it transforms everyday tomatoes into something extraordinary. Roasting brings out their depth and sweetness, while basil adds freshness that brightens every bite. It feels wholesome, light, and indulgent at the same time, making it a go-to pasta dish whenever I want something comforting yet not heavy.

Why This Is a Must-Try Dish

This is a must-try dish because it is easy, versatile, and packed with flavor. It requires minimal effort but delivers a restaurant-quality result. Whether you are cooking for yourself, family, or guests, this pasta is always a crowd-pleaser and works beautifully in any season.

Recipe Overview

Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 35 minutes
Total Time: 50 minutes
Servings: 4
Calories (Approx.): 420 per serving
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Italian

Ingredients

For the Roasted Tomato Sauce

• 500 g cherry or grape tomatoes, halved
• 4 cloves garlic, whole and lightly crushed
• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• ½ teaspoon dried oregano
• ¼ teaspoon chili flakes, optional

For the Pasta

• 350 g pasta (penne, spaghetti, or fusilli)
• Salt for boiling water

For Finishing

• ½ cup fresh basil leaves, torn
• ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese, optional
• Extra olive oil for drizzling

Cooking Directions

Roast the Tomatoes
Preheat oven and roast tomatoes with garlic, olive oil, and seasonings until soft and caramelized.

Cook the Pasta
Boil pasta in salted water until al dente. Reserve some pasta water before draining.

Combine Sauce and Pasta
Gently mash roasted tomatoes, toss with pasta, and add pasta water if needed.

Finish with Basil
Stir in fresh basil and finish with Parmesan and olive oil.

Step-by-Step Preparation Method

Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat the oven to 200°C. Line a baking tray with parchment paper.

Step 2: Prepare the Tomatoes
Place tomatoes and garlic on the tray. Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with salt, pepper, oregano, and chili flakes.

Step 3: Roast
Roast for 30–35 minutes until tomatoes are blistered, soft, and lightly caramelized.

Step 4: Cook the Pasta
While tomatoes roast, cook pasta in well-salted boiling water until al dente. Reserve ½ cup pasta water and drain.

Step 5: Make the Sauce
Remove tomatoes from oven and lightly mash them with a fork, keeping some texture.

Step 6: Combine
Add cooked pasta to the roasted tomatoes. Toss well, adding pasta water gradually to loosen the sauce.

Step 7: Finish and Serve
Add fresh basil and toss gently. Serve warm with Parmesan and a drizzle of olive oil.

How to Serve This Recipe

Serve Roasted Tomato Pasta hot, garnished with extra basil and grated Parmesan. Pair it with garlic bread, a green salad, or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.

Recipe Tips

• Use ripe tomatoes for the best flavor.
• Do not overcrowd the roasting pan to ensure proper caramelization.
• Reserve pasta water to adjust sauce consistency.
• Add basil at the end to preserve its aroma.
• Use high-quality olive oil for the best taste.

Variations

Creamy Roasted Tomato Pasta
Stir in a splash of cream or ricotta for a richer sauce.

Protein Addition
Add grilled chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas for extra protein.

Vegan Version
Skip the Parmesan or use a plant-based alternative.

Cheesy Baked Pasta
Transfer pasta to a baking dish, top with mozzarella, and bake until bubbly.

Herb-Forward Pasta
Add thyme or rosemary to the roasting tomatoes for deeper herbal notes.

Freezing and Storage

Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
Freezing: Freeze sauce separately for up to 2 months.
Reheating: Reheat gently on the stove with a splash of water or olive oil.

Special Equipment Needed

• Baking tray
• Large pot for pasta
• Colander
• Mixing spoon
• Oven

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use canned tomatoes?
Fresh tomatoes are best, but canned cherry tomatoes can be used if drained well.

What pasta shape works best?
Short pasta like penne or fusilli holds the sauce well.

Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes, prepare the sauce ahead and cook pasta fresh before serving.

Is this dish spicy?
It is mild; chili flakes are optional.

Can I add cheese while cooking?
Yes, Parmesan can be stirred in just before serving.

Conclusion

Roasted Tomato Pasta with Basil is a timeless, flavorful dish that highlights the beauty of simple ingredients prepared with care. With its sweet roasted tomatoes, fragrant basil, and perfectly cooked pasta, it delivers comfort and freshness in every bite. Easy to customize and always satisfying, this recipe deserves a regular place in your kitchen rotation.