Ingredients
Method
Cook the Pasta:
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente.
- Reserve 1 cup of pasta water, then drain the pasta and set it aside.
Sauté the Cherry Tomatoes:
- Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add cherry tomatoes and a pinch of salt. Cook for 6–8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the tomatoes soften and burst.
Prepare the Tahini Sauce:
- In a small bowl, whisk together tahini, lemon juice, 1 minced garlic clove, and the remaining tablespoon of olive oil.
- Gradually add the reserved pasta water, whisking until the sauce reaches a smooth, pourable consistency.
Combine the Pasta and Sauce:
- Add the cooked pasta to the skillet with the cherry tomatoes.
- Pour the tahini sauce over the pasta and toss gently to coat everything evenly.
- Cook over low heat for 2–3 minutes to warm through.
Garnish and Serve:
- Sprinkle with fresh parsley and crushed red pepper flakes if desired.
- Serve immediately with an extra drizzle of olive oil and lemon wedges on the side.
Notes
- Make It Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free pasta for a celiac-friendly option.
- Storage Tips: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently with a splash of water or broth to loosen the sauce.
- Add Protein: Grilled chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas make excellent additions to this dish.
- Flavor Boost: Add fresh basil or a sprinkle of nutritional yeast for extra flavor.