Vegan Roasted Tomato Pasta Recipe

This vibrant and wholesome plant-based Italian dish combines roasted cherry tomatoes, garlic, herbs, and a touch of lemon juice for a delightful flavor balance. It’s a versatile recipe that can be customized with various vegetables and herbs to suit your taste.​

🛠️ Equipment

  • Knife
  • Oven-safe baking tray
  • Pot
  • Colander
  • Spoon
  • Pasta bowl (for serving)

🥫 Ingredients

  • 4 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 4 tablespoons olive oil
  • 8 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/8 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 8 ounces pasta of choice (e.g., fusilli)
  • 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil
  • 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice​

🧂 Ingredient Notes

  • Olive Oil: Enhances flavor; alternatives include canola, sunflower oil, or unsalted vegan butter.
  • Basil: Fresh basil is used for its refreshing taste; parsley or other herbs can be substituted.
  • Pasta: Fusilli is used; feel free to choose your preferred type.
  • Garlic: Optional; can be omitted if desired.
  • Tomatoes: Fresh cherry tomatoes are recommended; canned or paste can be used as alternatives.​

🔪 Instructions

  1. Preheat Oven: Set the oven to 400°F (200°C).
  2. Prepare Tomatoes: Place halved cherry tomatoes on a baking tray.
  3. Season Tomatoes: Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with minced garlic, salt, oregano, and thyme. Toss to coat evenly.
  4. Roast Tomatoes: Bake for about 30 minutes until tomatoes are slightly browned and softened.
  5. Cook Pasta: Boil pasta in salted water until al dente, following package instructions. Drain and set aside.
  6. Combine Ingredients: In a large bowl, mix roasted tomatoes, cooked pasta, lemon juice, and chopped basil. Toss gently to combine.
  7. Serve: Dish into bowls and garnish with vegan parmesan cheese if desired.​

💡 Tips

  • Pasta Variations: Try different shapes like spaghetti, penne, or gluten-free options.
  • Herb Substitutions: Experiment with herbs like thyme, rosemary, or oregano.
  • Additional Veggies: Incorporate vegetables such as zucchini, bell peppers, or spinach.
  • Cheese Alternatives: Top with vegan cheese for added flavor.​

🧊 Storage Information

  • Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for 3–5 days.
  • Freezer: Freeze for 2–3 months; note that tomato texture may change upon reheating.
  • Reheating: Warm in a lightly oiled pan or microwave for 4–5 minutes, adjusting time as needed.​

❓ FAQs

Which types of tomatoes work best?

Cherry tomatoes are ideal due to their sweetness and juiciness. Alternatives like plum, grape, Roma, or Campari tomatoes can also be used.​

How can I customize this pasta?

Add vegetables such as mushrooms, red onions, carrots, bell peppers, zucchini, or shallots. Garnish with olives or capers for extra flavor.​

What pairs well with this dish?

Serve with vegan garlic bread, white bean salad, roasted ratatouille, vegan Caesar salad, dinner rolls, vegan ricotta, roasted squash, vegan pesto sauce, or grilled zucchini.​

🍽️ Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

  • Calories: 373 kcal
  • Carbohydrates: 51g
  • Sugar: 5g
  • Dietary Fiber: 3g
  • Protein: 9g
  • Total Fat: 15g
  • Iron: 2mg
  • Sodium: 603mg