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Serves 4. Preparation time: 30 mins. Cooking time 25 mins.
Ingredients
800g small tomatoes*
8 cloves garlic, peeled and crushed
45 ml (3 tbsp) olive oil
1 tbsp dried oregano
Salt and pepper, to taste
Pinch of chilli flakes (optional)
Pinch of sugar (optional)
A sprig of fresh basil (optional)
400g pasta of choice (we used fresh pasta dough)
Optional Toppings:
2 tbsp capers or sliced olives
Ricotta or fresh bocconcini cheese
Fresh herbs: basil or parsley
Toasted breadcrumbs
Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 220°C (425°F).
Roast the Tomatoes:
Place the tomatoes in a large baking dish along with the crushed garlic.
Drizzle olive oil over the top, and season with oregano, salt, and pepper. Add a sprig of basil if available.
Bake for 25-30 minutes, stirring halfway through, until the tomatoes are soft, juicy, and slightly charred.
Prepare the Pasta: While the tomatoes roast, cook your pasta until just short of al dente. Drain and set aside.
Make the Sauce:
Once the tomatoes are ready, transfer them (including juices) to a blender. Remove and discard wilted basil sprigs if used.
Add the roasted garlic and herbs to the blender and pulse until smooth. For a chunkier texture, reserve some whole tomatoes to stir in later.
Season the Sauce: Pour the sauce into a pan and gently heat it. Adjust seasoning with additional salt, pepper, chilli flakes, or a pinch of sugar if needed.
Combine Pasta and Sauce: Toss the cooked pasta in the sauce until evenly coated.
Serve and Garnish: Divide the pasta among four plates. Top with your choice of optional toppings, such as ricotta, fresh herbs, capers, or toasted breadcrumbs.