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ForestFoods

ForestFoods Slow-Cooked Cherry Tomato & Garlic Sauce Pasta with Fresh Oregano



Looking for a delicious, comforting pasta recipe that highlights the natural sweetness of ForestFoods' organic red cherry tomatoes? This Italian-inspired Slow-Cooked Cherry Tomato & Garlic Sauce Pasta uses fresh oregano, added toward the end of cooking for a perfectly balanced, earthy flavor.


Ingredients


  • 3 cups ForestFoods red cherry tomatoes, halved

  • 1/2 cup high-quality olive oil

  • 6 large garlic cloves, sliced lengthwise

  • Salt and black pepper, to taste

  • 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for a bit of heat)

  • 300g pasta (spaghetti or linguine works well)

  • 1/4 cup fresh oregano leaves, added in the last 15 minutes

  • Grated Parmesan or Pecorino cheese for serving (optional)



Instructions


  • Prepare the Garlic-Infused Oil: Start by heating olive oil over low heat in a large, heavy-bottomed skillet. Add the garlic slices and let them cook gently for 5-7 minutes, allowing the oil to absorb the rich garlic flavor. Be careful not to let the garlic burn; it should turn golden and fragrant.

  • Cook the Cherry Tomatoes: Place the halved cherry tomatoes cut-side down into the skillet with the garlic oil. Add salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using). Stir well to coat the tomatoes in the oil and garlic.

  • Slow-Cook the Sauce: Allow the cherry tomatoes to simmer on low heat for 30-40 minutes, stirring occasionally. This slow-cooking process releases the tomatoes’ natural juices, creating a thick, flavorful sauce. If the sauce becomes too thick, add a splash of water to maintain a saucy consistency.

  • Add Fresh Oregano: In the last 15 minutes of cooking, stir in the fresh oregano leaves. This allows the oregano to infuse into the sauce without overpowering it, providing a warm, herbal note that balances beautifully with the tomatoes.

  • Cook the Pasta: While the sauce is cooking, bring a pot of salted water to a boil and cook the pasta according to package instructions. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water, then drain the pasta.

  • Combine Pasta and Sauce: Add the cooked pasta to the skillet, along with a splash of reserved pasta water, to help the sauce coat the pasta evenly. Gently toss until the pasta is well-coated with the garlic-tomato-oregano sauce.

  • Garnish and Serve: Divide the pasta into bowls and top with grated Parmesan or Pecorino cheese if desired.


Why Slow-Cooking Cherry Tomatoes Makes All the Difference


Slow-cooking cherry tomatoes not only brings out their natural sweetness and depth, but it also boosts their nutritional value. According to Jo Robinson in her book "Eating on the Wild Side," cooking tomatoes for a longer time increases the availability of important phytonutrients, like lycopene. Lycopene, a powerful antioxidant linked to heart health and cancer prevention, becomes more bioavailable as the tomatoes break down during cooking. This makes ForestFoods' organically grown cherry tomatoes not only a flavor powerhouse but also a nutritious choice for health-conscious eaters.


Serving Suggestions & Variations


  • For a Vegan Twist: Substitute the cheese with a vegan Parmesan alternative or add a sprinkle of nutritional yeast for an extra cheesy flavor.

  • Add Protein: Stir in some cooked chickpeas, grilled chicken, or shrimp for a protein boost.

  • Spice It Up: If you love heat, add extra red pepper flakes or drizzle with chili oil just before serving.


Enjoy this simple, slow-cooked cherry tomato pasta and savor the fresh flavors of ForestFoods’ organically grown produce! Perfect for family dinners, romantic evenings, or even meal prep, this dish is sure to become a favorite.


For more recipes featuring our fresh produce, visit the ForestFoods blog regularly. Happy cooking!

 

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