Imagine twirling forkfuls of creamy, tahini-coated pasta, bursting with the sweet and tangy flavor of roasted cherry tomatoes and the earthy aroma of za’atar spice. Tahini pasta with burst cherry tomatoes is a dish that hits all the right notes: it’s comforting, flavorful, and easy to make. Whether you’re cooking for yourself, family, or guests, this recipe is guaranteed to impress while keeping things simple and satisfying.
In this article, you’ll learn how to prepare this delicious pasta dish step by step, with tips, variations, and answers to common questions. By the end, you’ll have the confidence to make this mouthwatering recipe a staple in your kitchen.
Why You’ll Love This Tahini Pasta Recipe
- Unique flavor combo: Creamy tahini and tangy tomatoes create a bold, unforgettable taste.
- Easy to make: With just a few steps, you’ll have a gourmet-level meal in under 30 minutes.
- Versatile: Works as a weeknight dinner, date-night meal, or even a dish for entertaining.
- Rich and creamy: The tahini sauce clings perfectly to every strand of pasta.
- Customizable: You can add protein, extra veggies, or other toppings to make it your own.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Here’s a detailed breakdown of the ingredients for tahini pasta with burst cherry tomatoes:
| Category | Ingredient | Amount |
| For the Tomatoes | Extra-virgin olive oil | ¼ cup |
| Cherry tomatoes | 2 pints | |
| Garlic cloves, smashed | 5 | |
| Za’atar spice | 1½ tsp. | |
| Kosher salt | 1 tsp., divided | |
| Black pepper | ½ tsp., divided | |
| For the Pasta | Spaghetti (or pasta of choice) | 1 lb. |
| Reserved pasta water | 1 cup | |
| For the Tahini Sauce | Tahini | ⅓ cup |
| Fresh lemon juice | 2 Tbsp. | |
| Grated Parmesan cheese | 1 cup, divided | |
| Chopped fresh basil leaves | ¼ cup | |
| Capers (optional) | 2 tsp. |
Step-by-Step Guide to Making Tahini Pasta with Burst Cherry Tomatoes
1. Prepare Your Ingredients
Gather and Prep Everything First
- Wash the cherry tomatoes and pat them dry.
- Smash the garlic cloves using the side of a knife.
- Grate the Parmesan cheese and chop the fresh basil leaves.
Having everything ready before you start cooking will make the process smooth and efficient.
2. Cook the Burst Cherry Tomatoes
Heat the Olive Oil
- In a large skillet, heat ¼ cup of olive oil over medium heat.
Add the Tomatoes and Garlic
- Add the cherry tomatoes and smashed garlic cloves to the skillet.
- Cook for 8–10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the tomatoes burst and become jammy.
Season the Tomatoes
- Stir in 1½ teaspoons of za’atar spice, ½ teaspoon salt, and ¼ teaspoon black pepper.
- Cook for another minute to let the spices bloom and infuse the tomatoes.
3. Cook the Pasta
Boil the Pasta
- Bring a large pot of generously salted water to a boil.
- Cook 1 pound of spaghetti (or your pasta of choice) until al dente, according to the package instructions.
Reserve the Pasta Water
- Before draining the pasta, remove 1 cup of pasta cooking water and set it aside. This starchy water will help bind the sauce and give it a silky texture.
4. Make the Tahini Sauce
Combine the Ingredients
- In a large measuring cup or mixing bowl, whisk together:
- ⅓ cup tahini
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- ¾ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Remaining ½ teaspoon salt and ¼ teaspoon black pepper
Stream in Pasta Water
- Slowly pour in the reserved 1 cup of pasta cooking water, whisking constantly, until the sauce is smooth and creamy.
5. Combine the Pasta and Sauce
Toss the Pasta with Tomatoes
- Add the cooked pasta and tahini sauce to the skillet with the burst cherry tomatoes.
- Toss continuously over medium heat until the sauce thickens and clings to the noodles.
Add Fresh Herbs and Capers
- Stir in the chopped fresh basil and capers (if using) for an extra layer of flavor.
6. Serve and Garnish
Plate the Pasta
- Divide the pasta into serving bowls.
Add Final Touches
- Garnish with the remaining grated Parmesan cheese, a drizzle of olive oil, and a crack of fresh black pepper.
- For added brightness, you can also sprinkle extra chopped basil on top.
Tips for Perfect Tahini Pasta with Burst Cherry Tomatoes
- Don’t skip the pasta water: This starchy water is key to creating a silky, cohesive sauce.
- Choose high-quality tahini: A smooth, runny tahini works best for blending into the sauce.
- Use fresh ingredients: Fresh basil, garlic, and lemon juice elevate the flavors of this dish.
- Burst the tomatoes completely: Cooking the cherry tomatoes until they’re jammy releases their natural sweetness and enhances their flavor.
- Adjust seasoning to taste: Taste the sauce before serving and add more salt, pepper, or lemon juice if needed.
Nutritional Information
Here’s a general breakdown of the nutritional content per serving (based on 6 servings):
| Nutrient | Amount Per Serving |
| Calories | ~450 |
| Protein | ~15g |
| Carbohydrates | ~50g |
| Fat | ~20g |
| Fiber | ~4g |
| Sodium | ~600mg |
Creative Variations
1. Add Protein
- Include grilled chicken, shrimp, or roasted chickpeas for a protein boost.
2. Make It Vegan
- Use a vegan Parmesan cheese substitute and add nutritional yeast for extra flavor.
3. Use Gluten-Free Pasta
- Substitute regular spaghetti with gluten-free pasta to make this dish gluten-free.
4. Spice It Up
- Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.
5. Extra Veggies
- Incorporate sautéed zucchini, spinach, or roasted red peppers for additional nutrients and texture.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, but it’s best to prepare the tahini sauce and cook the pasta fresh. You can burst the tomatoes ahead of time and store them in the fridge for up to 2 days.
2. Can I substitute za’atar spice?
If you don’t have za’atar, you can use a mix of dried thyme, sesame seeds, and a touch of sumac or lemon zest.
3. What can I use instead of Parmesan?
Pecorino Romano or a vegan Parmesan alternative works well. Nutritional yeast is also a great option for a dairy-free version.
4. Is there a substitute for tahini?
If you don’t have tahini, you can use almond butter or cashew butter, though it will slightly change the flavor.
5. How do I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or microwave, adding a splash of water if the sauce thickens.
6. Can I use canned tomatoes instead of fresh cherry tomatoes?
Fresh cherry tomatoes are best for this recipe, but you can use canned whole tomatoes in a pinch. Just be sure to drain them and adjust the seasoning.
Final Thoughts: Bring Bold Flavors to Your Table
Tahini pasta with burst cherry tomatoes is more than just a meal—it’s an experience. From the creamy tahini sauce to the sweet, jammy tomatoes and fragrant basil, every bite is packed with flavor and texture. Whether you’re feeding a family or treating yourself, this dish is guaranteed to impress.
Ready to give it a try? Gather your ingredients, follow these simple steps, and enjoy a pasta dish that’s as comforting as it is unique.
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Tahini Pasta with Burst Cherry Tomatoes: A Creamy, Flavor-Packed Dish
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4–6
Description
Tahini pasta with burst cherry tomatoes combines the nutty creaminess of tahini with the sweet, tangy flavors of roasted cherry tomatoes and a sprinkle of za’atar spice. This quick and flavorful dish is perfect for weeknight dinners, date nights, or a crowd-pleasing meal that’s both comforting and unique.
Ingredients
For the Burst Cherry Tomatoes:
- 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
- 2 pints cherry tomatoes
- 5 garlic cloves, smashed
- 1 1/2 teaspoons za’atar spice
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt, divided
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper, divided
For the Pasta:
- 1 pound spaghetti (or pasta of choice)
- 1 cup reserved pasta water
For the Tahini Sauce:
- 1/3 cup tahini
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- 3/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (divided)
- 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Optional Garnishes:
- 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
- 2 teaspoons capers
- Drizzle of olive oil
Instructions
- Prepare the Cherry Tomatoes
- Heat 1/4 cup olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add the cherry tomatoes and smashed garlic cloves.
- Cook for 8–10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the tomatoes burst and turn jammy.
- Stir in the za’atar spice, 1/2 teaspoon salt, and 1/4 teaspoon pepper. Cook for another minute, then set aside.
- Cook the Pasta
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
- Add the spaghetti and cook until al dente according to the package instructions.
- Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining the pasta.
- Prepare the Tahini Sauce
- In a mixing bowl, whisk together tahini, lemon juice, 1/2 cup grated Parmesan, 1/2 teaspoon salt, and 1/4 teaspoon pepper.
- Gradually add the reserved pasta water, whisking constantly, until the sauce is smooth and creamy.
- Combine the Pasta and Sauce
- Add the cooked pasta to the skillet with the burst cherry tomatoes.
- Pour in the tahini sauce and toss over medium heat until the pasta is coated and the sauce thickens slightly.
- Finish and Serve
- Stir in the remaining grated Parmesan and fresh basil for extra flavor.
- Plate the pasta and garnish with capers, a drizzle of olive oil, and additional Parmesan, if desired.
Notes
- Pasta water: Don’t skip reserving the pasta water—it’s essential for creating a silky, cohesive sauce.
- Quality tahini: Use a high-quality, smooth tahini for the best flavor and texture.
- Bursting tomatoes: Let the tomatoes burst completely to release their natural sweetness.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Sautéing
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
