Roasted Garlic & Herb Penne with Cherry Tomatoes is a comforting yet vibrant pasta dish that celebrates simple ingredients and bold, natural flavors. The sweetness of slow-roasted garlic melts into a rich, aromatic base, while juicy cherry tomatoes burst with freshness, creating a light but satisfying sauce that clings beautifully to penne pasta.

Fresh herbs bring balance and brightness, making this dish feel both rustic and elegant. It is the kind of recipe that proves you don’t need heavy sauces or complicated techniques to create something truly memorable. Perfect for busy weeknights or relaxed weekend meals, this pasta delivers warmth, freshness, and comfort in every bite.

Why I Love This Recipe

I love this recipe because it transforms humble pantry staples into a dish that feels special and nourishing. Roasting garlic brings out a deep, mellow sweetness that elevates the entire pasta without overpowering it.

The cherry tomatoes add freshness and a pop of color, while herbs make the dish feel garden-fresh and wholesome. It is versatile, easy to customize, and always satisfying without feeling heavy.

Why This Is a Must-Try Dish

This recipe is a must-try because it strikes the perfect balance between simplicity and flavor. It is vegetarian, budget-friendly, and adaptable for many diets. Whether you are cooking for yourself, your family, or guests, it delivers restaurant-quality taste with minimal effort. It is also an excellent base recipe that can be easily enhanced with proteins, cheeses, or seasonal vegetables.

Recipe Overview

• Preparation Time: 15 minutes
• Cooking Time: 30 minutes
• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Servings: 4
• Calories (Approx.): 420 calories per serving
• Course: Main Course
• Cuisine: Italian-inspired Mediterranean

Ingredients

For the Roasted Garlic

• 2 whole garlic bulbs
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Salt, to taste

For the Pasta

• 12 ounces penne pasta
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 ½ cups cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• ½ teaspoon dried thyme
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• ¼ teaspoon red chili flakes (optional)
• ¼ cup reserved pasta water

For Garnish

• Fresh basil or parsley, chopped
• Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)

Cooking Directions

1. Roast the garlic until soft and caramelized.
2. Cook the penne pasta until al dente.
3. Sauté cherry tomatoes with herbs and olive oil.
4. Combine pasta, roasted garlic, tomatoes, and pasta water.
5. Toss until well coated and flavorful.
6. Garnish and serve warm.

Step-by-Step Preparation Method

1. Preheat your oven to 200°C (400°F).
2. Slice the top off each garlic bulb to expose the cloves. Place them on foil, drizzle with olive oil, sprinkle with salt, and wrap tightly.
3. Roast the garlic for 30 minutes until soft and golden. Let it cool slightly, then squeeze out the cloves and mash into a paste.
4. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook penne according to package instructions. Reserve ¼ cup of pasta water before draining.
5. Heat olive oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add cherry tomatoes and cook until softened and slightly blistered.
6. Stir in oregano, basil, thyme, black pepper, salt, and chili flakes if using.
7. Add roasted garlic paste to the pan and mix well.
8. Add cooked penne and reserved pasta water. Toss gently until the sauce coats the pasta evenly.
9. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
10. Remove from heat and garnish with fresh herbs and Parmesan before serving.

How to Serve This Recipe

Serve this pasta hot, straight from the pan, with extra fresh herbs on top. It pairs beautifully with a crisp green salad, garlic bread, or roasted vegetables. For a complete meal, you can serve it alongside grilled chicken, shrimp, or a simple soup.

Recipe Tips

• Roast extra garlic and store it for future recipes.
• Always reserve pasta water; it helps bind the sauce naturally.
• Use high-quality olive oil for the best flavor.
• Do not overcook the tomatoes; they should be soft but still fresh.
• Fresh herbs can be added at the end for extra aroma.

Variations

Creamy Version

Add ¼ cup of cream or cream cheese to create a richer, creamier sauce while keeping the roasted garlic flavor intact.

Protein Addition

Stir in grilled chicken, sautéed shrimp, or chickpeas to make the dish more filling and protein-rich.

Vegan Upgrade

Skip the cheese and add nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor while keeping the recipe fully vegan.

Vegetable-Loaded

Add spinach, zucchini, mushrooms, or roasted bell peppers for extra nutrition and texture.

Spicy Twist

Increase chili flakes or add a spoon of chili garlic oil for a bolder, spicier finish.

Freezing and Storage

• Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: This pasta can be frozen for up to 1 month, though the texture of tomatoes may soften slightly upon reheating.
• Reheating: Reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of water or olive oil to restore moisture.

Special Equipment Needed

• Large pot for boiling pasta
• Baking tray or foil for roasting garlic
• Large skillet or sauté pan
• Wooden spoon or pasta tongs

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a different pasta shape?
Yes, fusilli, rigatoni, or farfalle work very well with this sauce.

Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of cherry tomatoes?
Yes, but cherry tomatoes are sweeter and provide better texture.

Is this recipe gluten-free?
Use gluten-free penne to make it suitable for gluten-free diets.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, but it is best enjoyed fresh. Reheat gently before serving.

How can I add more flavor without cheese?
Use extra herbs, roasted vegetables, or a drizzle of flavored olive oil.

Conclusion

Roasted Garlic & Herb Penne with Cherry Tomatoes is a timeless, comforting pasta dish that brings out the best in simple ingredients. With its rich roasted garlic flavor, fresh herbs, and juicy tomatoes, it is both satisfying and light enough to enjoy any time of year. Easy to prepare and endlessly customizable, this recipe deserves a permanent place in your meal rotation. Whether served as a quick dinner or a relaxed weekend meal, it is a dish that always delivers warmth, flavor, and comfort.