Imagine a plate of perfectly cooked pasta, draped in a velvety tahini sauce and topped with burst cherry tomatoes that are sweet, tangy, and just a little caramelized. It’s the kind of meal that comforts your soul while keeping things simple and healthy. Tahini pasta with burst cherry tomatoes is the perfect combination of creamy, nutty, and savory flavors, making it ideal for quick weeknight dinners, weekend brunches, or meal prepping for the week.

Why Tahini Pasta with Burst Cherry Tomatoes is Irresistible

Tahini, made from ground sesame seeds, adds a rich, nutty flavor that transforms a basic pasta dish into something extraordinary. The burst cherry tomatoes add vibrant color and sweetness, balancing the tahini’s earthiness. You’ll love this recipe because it’s:

• Quick and Easy: It’s ready in less than 30 minutes.
• Nutritious: Full of healthy fats, plant-based protein, and antioxidants from the tomatoes.
• Customizable: Easily adaptable with different herbs, spices, and toppings.

Ingredients for Tahini Pasta with Burst Cherry Tomatoes

Here’s a quick overview of what you’ll need to make this mouthwatering meal:

Ingredient	Quantity
Pasta (spaghetti or linguine)	12 oz (340 grams)
Cherry tomatoes	2 cups
Tahini (well-stirred)	½ cup
Fresh lemon juice	2 tablespoons
Olive oil	3 tablespoons
Garlic (minced)	3 cloves
Salt	1 teaspoon
Black pepper	½ teaspoon
Crushed red pepper flakes	½ teaspoon (optional)
Fresh parsley (chopped)	2 tablespoons (for garnish)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Cook the Pasta

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
2. Add the pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente.
3. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining the pasta. Set both aside.

2. Sauté the Burst Cherry Tomatoes

1. In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat.
2. Add the cherry tomatoes and a pinch of salt.
3. Cook for 6-8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the tomatoes soften and burst, releasing their juices.

3. Prepare the Tahini Sauce

1. In a small bowl, whisk together the tahini, lemon juice, 1 minced garlic clove, and the remaining tablespoon of olive oil.
2. Slowly add reserved pasta water, a few tablespoons at a time, until the sauce reaches your desired consistency. It should be smooth and pourable.

4. Combine the Pasta and Sauce

1. Add the cooked pasta to the skillet with the burst cherry tomatoes.
2. Pour the tahini sauce over the pasta and gently toss to coat.
3. Cook for 2-3 minutes over low heat, stirring frequently, until everything is well combined and heated through.

5. Garnish and Serve

1. Sprinkle the pasta with fresh parsley and crushed red pepper flakes if desired.
2. Serve immediately with a drizzle of olive oil and extra lemon juice on the side.

Tips for Perfect Tahini Pasta with Burst Cherry Tomatoes

1. Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh cherry tomatoes and high-quality tahini make a huge difference in flavor.
2. Control the Heat: Adjust the crushed red pepper flakes based on your spice preference.
3. Add Protein: For a heartier dish, top the pasta with grilled chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas.
4. Thin the Sauce Gradually: Add pasta water slowly to prevent the sauce from becoming too watery.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

Nutrient	Amount
Calories	350
Protein	10g
Carbohydrates	45g
Fat	12g
Fiber	4g
Sodium	350mg

Creative Variations of Tahini Pasta with Burst Cherry Tomatoes

1. Herb Explosion: Add fresh basil, thyme, or cilantro for an aromatic twist.
2. Vegan Parmesan: Sprinkle nutritional yeast on top for a cheesy, dairy-free flavor.
3. Roasted Veggies: Add roasted zucchini, eggplant, or bell peppers for extra texture.
4. Spicy Kick: Use extra red pepper flakes or a dash of sriracha in the sauce.

FAQs About Tahini Pasta with Burst Cherry Tomatoes

1. Can I use other types of pasta?
Absolutely! Penne, fusilli, or any pasta shape you love works well in this recipe.

2. Can I make this dish vegan?
Yes, the recipe is naturally vegan if you use plant-based pasta and ensure your tahini is dairy-free.

3. What if my tahini sauce is too thick?
Add more pasta water or lemon juice, one tablespoon at a time, until the sauce reaches the desired consistency.

4. How do I store leftovers?
Store the pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of water to loosen the sauce.

5. Can I add protein to the dish?
Of course! Grilled chicken, tofu, or chickpeas are great options.

6. What can I use instead of tahini?
If you don’t have tahini, try almond butter or sunflower seed butter as a substitute, though the flavor will vary slightly.

Conclusion: Make Tahini Pasta with Burst Cherry Tomatoes Tonight!

Tahini pasta with burst cherry tomatoes is a comforting, flavorful dish that’s simple to prepare and endlessly customizable. Whether you’re feeding your family, impressing friends, or enjoying a cozy night at home, this recipe will become a new favorite. So, grab your ingredients, fire up your stovetop, and enjoy the creamy, delicious magic of tahini pasta today!

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