Sweet & Spicy Roasted Cherry Tomato Pasta

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An easy weeknight pasta bursting with caramelized cherry tomatoes, garden herbs, and just the right kick of heat.

This pasta is proof that a simple garden harvest can turn into a rich, flavorful dinner with almost no effort. Roasting cherry tomatoes concentrates their sweetness, while a touch of chili brings a gentle heat that balances every bite. Tossed with olive oil, garlic, and your favorite pasta—this is a back-pocket recipe that’s bright, bold, and endlessly adaptable.

📌 Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• ✅ Quick & easy—most of the magic happens in the oven
• ✅ Sweet, savory, and spicy flavor combo
• ✅ Perfect for cherry tomatoes at peak ripeness
• ✅ Naturally vegetarian and easy to make gluten-free
• ✅ Works with any pasta shape

📌 Quick Reference

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Servings: 4
Dietary Info: Vegetarian, Vegan-Optional

Key Ingredients at a Glance:
🍅 Cherry tomatoes
🌶️ Red pepper flakes
🧄 Garlic
🌿 Fresh herbs
🍝 Pasta

📌 Ingredients

• 4 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
• 4 cloves garlic, thinly sliced
• 3 tbsp olive oil, divided
• 1 tsp honey (optional, for extra caramelization)
• ½ tsp crushed red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
• ½ tsp sea salt
• Fresh ground black pepper, to taste
• 12 oz pasta of choice (spaghetti, fusilli, penne, etc.)
• ¼ cup fresh basil, chopped
• 2 tbsp grated parmesan (optional, or vegan substitute)
• Juice of ½ lemon (for brightness)

Optional Add-Ins:

• Toasted pine nuts or walnuts
• A swirl of pesto or ricotta
• Fresh thyme or oregano in place of basil

📌 Step-by-Step Instructions

🔥 Roast the Tomatoes

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. On a baking sheet, toss halved cherry tomatoes with 2 tbsp olive oil, garlic, red pepper flakes, honey, salt, and pepper.
3. Roast for 20–25 minutes until tomatoes are soft, blistered, and slightly caramelized.

🍝 Cook the Pasta

1. While tomatoes roast, cook pasta according to package directions in salted water.
2. Reserve ½ cup pasta water before draining.

🌀 Toss & Finish

1. In a large bowl or skillet, combine roasted tomato mixture, drained pasta, remaining olive oil, lemon juice, and a splash of reserved pasta water.
2. Stir in fresh basil and parmesan (if using).
3. Toss well until coated and glossy. Add more pasta water if needed to loosen the sauce.

📌 Serving & Pairing Ideas

• Serve with a leafy green salad and crusty bread
• Top with extra basil and cracked black pepper for a rustic finish
• Pairs beautifully with a chilled white wine or herbal iced tea

📌 Storage & Make-Ahead Tips

• Store leftovers in an airtight container up to 3 days
• Reheat gently with a splash of water or olive oil to revive the sauce
• Roasted tomatoes can be made ahead and frozen for later use

📌 Final Thoughts

This is one of those recipes that turns a humble pint of tomatoes into something crave-worthy. Roasting deepens the flavor, and the chili flakes keep things interesting. It’s everything you want in a summer pasta—simple, fresh, and just spicy enough to keep you going back for one more forkful.

🍅 Tried it? Tag @SouthernSoilSunshine and show off your plate!
Looking for more ways to use cherry tomatoes? You’ll love:

• Heirloom Tomato Garden Bruschetta
• Garden-Fresh Tomato & Basil Tart
• How to Harvest Cherry Tomatoes for Peak Flavor