Introduction

There’s something magical about combining simple, fresh ingredients to create a dish that feels gourmet yet takes minimal effort. This Pasta with Caramelized Tomatoes and Yogurt recipe hits all the right notes: a little tangy, a little sweet, and perfectly creamy. It’s a fantastic choice for busy weeknights or when you want to impress without the stress. Let’s dive into this flavorful journey!

Ingredients for Pasta with Caramelized Tomatoes

For the Pasta:

• 300g pasta of your choice (spaghetti, penne, or fusilli work best)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Salt to taste

For the Sauce:

• 500g cherry tomatoes, halved
• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon sugar
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 cup full-fat plain yogurt (Greek yogurt preferred)
• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste

For Garnish:

• Fresh basil leaves
• Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)

Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add your pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente.
2. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water, then drain the rest. Drizzle the pasta with a bit of olive oil to prevent sticking and set aside.

Step 2: Caramelize the Tomatoes

1. Heat 3 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
2. Add the halved cherry tomatoes, cut side down, in a single layer. Sprinkle with sugar and let them cook undisturbed for 5-7 minutes until caramelized.
3. Stir in minced garlic and cook for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant. Season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes if using.

Step 3: Prepare the Yogurt Sauce

1. In a bowl, whisk the yogurt until smooth. Add a pinch of salt and a few tablespoons of the reserved pasta water to loosen it up, creating a silky texture.
2. Ensure the yogurt is at room temperature to prevent curdling when mixed with the hot pasta.

Step 4: Combine Everything

1. Add the cooked pasta to the skillet with the caramelized tomatoes. Toss to coat evenly.
2. Remove the skillet from heat and gently fold in the yogurt sauce. If the sauce feels too thick, add a splash of the reserved pasta water.

Step 5: Garnish and Serve

1. Transfer the pasta to a serving bowl. Garnish with fresh basil leaves and a generous sprinkle of Parmesan cheese, if desired.
2. Serve immediately and enjoy this creamy, tangy, and slightly sweet dish!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe (Pasta with Caramelized Tomatoes)

1. Quick and Easy: Perfect for a weeknight dinner that doesn’t skimp on flavor.
2. Unique Flavor Combo: The tangy yogurt pairs beautifully with the sweet caramelized tomatoes.
3. Customizable: Add grilled chicken, shrimp, or roasted vegetables for extra flair.

Pro Tips for Making Pasta with Caramelized Tomatoes

• Use Greek yogurt for a thicker, creamier texture.
• Don’t skip the sugar—it enhances the caramelization of the tomatoes.
• Always reserve pasta water! It’s the secret to achieving a luscious, cohesive sauce.

Conclusion

This Pasta with Caramelized Tomatoes and Yogurt recipe is a delightful twist on traditional pasta dishes. It’s proof that simplicity often yields the best results. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or hosting friends, this recipe is sure to become a new favorite. Give it a try and let us know how it turned out in the comments!