Discover the perfect combination of sweet roasted cherry tomatoes and corkscrew cellentani pasta. This dish is quick, easy, and ideal for weeknight dinners or special gatherings. With simple ingredients and a burst of fresh flavors, this recipe will become your go-to pasta meal.
What is Roasted Cherry Tomato Cellentani?
Origins of the Recipe
Roasted cherry tomato cellentani draws inspiration from Italian cuisine, where simplicity meets bold flavors. The vibrant roasted tomatoes complement the pasta’s unique spiral shape, ensuring every bite is packed with flavor.
Why This Dish is Special
The roasted cherry tomatoes add a natural sweetness and depth of flavor, while the cellentani pasta holds the sauce perfectly. This recipe is versatile, customizable, and perfect for showcasing fresh seasonal produce.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Pasta – Choosing the Right Type
Cavatappi, also known as cellentani, is the preferred choice for its corkscrew shape, which captures the sauce beautifully.
Cherry Tomatoes – Fresh vs. Canned
- Fresh cherry tomatoes: Best for their sweet and tangy flavor.
- Canned cherry tomatoes: A great substitute if fresh isn’t available.
Optional Add-ins
- Fresh basil for garnish
- Parmesan or pecorino cheese for richness
- Protein options like grilled chicken or shrimp
How to Make Roasted Cherry Tomato Cellentani
Step-by-Step Preparation
Roasting the Tomatoes
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Place cherry tomatoes on a baking sheet, drizzle with olive oil, and season with garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
- Roast for 20-25 minutes until the tomatoes burst and caramelize.
Cooking the Pasta
- Cook cellentani pasta in salted boiling water until al dente.
- Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
Combining Ingredients
- Toss the roasted tomatoes with cooked pasta.
- Add fresh basil, a splash of reserved pasta water, and grated cheese for a creamy consistency.
Tips for the Best Roasted Cherry Tomato Cellentani
- Roasting Tip: Use a high oven temperature to caramelize the tomatoes.
- Season Generously: Enhance flavor with quality olive oil, sea salt, and fresh herbs.
- Avoid Overcooking: Keep the pasta al dente for the best texture.
Variations to Try
Add Protein
Grilled chicken, shrimp, or crispy pancetta are all fantastic additions that bring extra flavor and protein to this dish.
If you’d like another cheesy vegetarian bake, check out Cellentani with Spinach and Cheese.
Vegan and Gluten-Free Modifications
Use gluten-free pasta and skip the cheese or substitute it with a vegan option. If you’re looking for a fresh, no-cook alternative for hot days, try our Fresh and Flavorful Cellentani Pasta Salad. And for another roasted vegetable-inspired recipe, don’t miss Cellentani Pasta with Roasted Red Pepper and White Beans.
How to Store and Reheat
Storage Tips
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating Methods
- Reheat in a skillet with a splash of water or olive oil to maintain the sauce’s consistency.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Absolutely! Penne, rigatoni, or fusilli work well as substitutes.
Fresh basil, parsley, or oregano are ideal for enhancing the flavor.
Yes, it reheats beautifully and is perfect for preparing in advance.
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Roasted Cherry Tomato Cellentani
Ingredients
- 16 ounces 450g cellentani pasta
- 2 cups cherry tomatoes
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil for garnish
- Grated Parmesan cheese optional
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Place cherry tomatoes on a baking sheet, drizzle with olive oil, and season with garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
- Roast tomatoes for 20-25 minutes or until they burst and caramelize.
- Cook pasta in salted boiling water until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water and drain.
- Toss roasted tomatoes with pasta, adding reserved pasta water as needed for a creamy consistency.
- Garnish with fresh basil and Parmesan cheese. Serve warm and enjoy!
Notes
- Pasta Substitutions: If cellentani pasta isn’t available, try fusilli, penne, or rigatoni for similar sauce retention.
- Tomato Alternatives: Use grape tomatoes or canned cherry tomatoes when fresh ones are out of season.
- Enhancing the Flavor: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a touch of heat, or a drizzle of balsamic glaze for added sweetness.
- Cheese Options: Swap Parmesan for Pecorino Romano or a sprinkle of feta for a tangy twist.
- Storage Tip: To retain freshness, store leftovers in an airtight container and reheat gently with a splash of olive oil or pasta water.
- Seasonal Variations: In summer, add fresh zucchini slices or roasted bell peppers. In winter, toss in sautéed mushrooms or spinach.
- Vegan Adjustments: Replace Parmesan with nutritional yeast for a vegan-friendly alternative.