Ziti with Roasted Tomato Sauce and Goat Cheese

Elevate your pasta game with this vibrant and slightly smoky oven-roasted tomato sauce. By roasting and charring the tomatoes to perfection, we create a rich and concentrated base that adds depth and flavor to the dish. However, achieving the ideal texture and flavor was not without its challenges. The tomatoes ended up stewing in their own juice when roasted directly on the baking sheet. But fear not, the solution was found in elevating the tomatoes using a wire rack. This technique allowed for maximum air circulation and better charring, resulting in a more intense roasted tomato flavor. To enhance the sauce further, we incorporated tomato paste, which deepened the color and added another layer of tomato goodness. The aromatic backbone was achieved by roasting onions and garlic alongside the tomatoes, infusing the sauce with a delightful fragrance. Tangy goat cheese crumbles and woodsy fresh rosemary perfectly complement the smoky notes of the sauce. Get ready to savor the rich flavors of this pasta dish and let your taste buds rejoice!

INGREDIENTS:

• 2 tablespoons tomato paste
• 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
• 1 teaspoon minced fresh rosemary or ¼ teaspoon dried
• Salt and pepper
• ⅛ teaspoon red pepper flakes
• 3 pounds vine-ripened tomatoes, cored and halved pole to pole
• 1 small onion, sliced into ½-inch-thick rings
• 6 garlic cloves, peeled
• 1 teaspoon red wine vinegar
• Sugar, as needed
• 1 pound ziti
• 2 ounces goat cheese, crumbled (½ cup)

PREPARATION:

1. Adjust the oven rack to the middle position and preheat the oven to 475 degrees Fahrenheit. Line a rimmed baking sheet with aluminum foil and place a wire rack on top. Set a 4-inch square of foil in the center of the rack.
2. In a large bowl, combine tomato paste, 1 tablespoon of olive oil, minced rosemary, ¾ teaspoon of salt, ¼ teaspoon of pepper, and red pepper flakes. Add the halved tomatoes, onion slices, and peeled garlic cloves. Toss to coat all the ingredients evenly.
3. Place the onion rounds and garlic cloves on the foil square on the rack. Arrange the tomatoes, cut side down, around the garlic and onions.
4. Roast the vegetables in the preheated oven until they are soft and the tomato skins are well charred, which should take about 45 to 55 minutes.

SPECIAL INSTRUCTIONS:

• It is important to pulse the garlic and onion in a food processor until finely chopped to ensure even distribution in the sauce.

TIPS:

• Use vine-ripened tomatoes for the best flavor and texture.
• Adjust the amount of sugar to your taste preference to balance the acidity of the tomatoes.

NUTRITIONAL INFORMATION PER SERVING:

• Calories: 390
• Fat: 8g
• Saturated Fat: 2.5g
• Cholesterol: 5mg
• Carbohydrates: 68g
• Protein: 14g
• Fiber: 5g
• Sodium: 440mg

YIELD:

This recipe serves 4-6 people.

In conclusion, this oven-roasted tomato pasta sauce is a testament to the power of roasting and charring to elevate the flavors of simple ingredients. The challenge of preventing the tomatoes from stewing in their own juice was overcome by using a wire rack, which allowed for better air circulation and enhanced charring. The result is a vibrant and slightly smoky tomato sauce that forms the perfect base for a delicious pasta dish.

By incorporating tomato paste, we deepen the color and intensify the tomato flavor, adding another layer of richness to the sauce. The roasted onions and garlic provide an aromatic backbone that infuses the dish with a delightful fragrance. Tangy goat cheese crumbles and woodsy fresh rosemary perfectly complement the smoky notes of the sauce, creating a symphony of flavors.

To prepare this dish, simply roast the tomatoes, onion, and garlic until soft and well-charged. Pulse them in a food processor to achieve a slightly chunky sauce. Meanwhile, cook the ziti until al dente and toss it with the roasted tomato sauce. The final touch is to sprinkle each portion with goat cheese before serving.

As you savor each bite, you’ll be delighted by the robust flavors and satisfying texture of this pasta dish. The roasted tomatoes provide a luscious sweetness, while the charred edges add depth and complexity. The creaminess of the goat cheese and the earthiness of the rosemary balance out the smoky notes, creating a well-rounded and enjoyable eating experience.

This recipe serves as a reminder that sometimes simple techniques can make a world of difference in the kitchen. By carefully roasting and charring the ingredients, we unlock their full potential and create a pasta sauce that is far from ordinary. It’s a dish that will impress both family and guests with its vibrant colors and irresistible flavors.

So, gather your ingredients, preheat the oven, and embark on a culinary adventure that will leave your taste buds craving for more. Elevate your pasta game with this oven-roasted tomato sauce and enjoy the delightful combination of flavors that will transport you to a realm of culinary bliss.