Linguine with Confit Cherry Tomatoes
Category: Pasta Dishes
Servings: 4
Ingredients:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Linguine | 400g |
| Breadcrumbs (Pangrattato) | 20g |
| Extra virgin olive oil | q.b. (to taste) |
| Anchovies (Alici) | 15g |
| Fresh basil | 4 leaves |
| Cherry tomatoes (Pomodorini ciliegino) | 500g |
| Garlic | 1 clove |
| Fresh thyme | 8g |
| Oregano | 3g |
| Table salt | 2g |
| Black pepper | 2g |
| Extra virgin olive oil (for tomatoes) | 20g |
| Sugar | 5g |
Instructions:
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Prepare the confit cherry tomatoes: Start by washing the cherry tomatoes thoroughly. Cut them in half and set aside. Prepare a fine chop of fresh thyme, and mince the garlic.
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Season the tomatoes: Place the halved tomatoes in a bowl. Sprinkle with sugar, salt, pepper, and the finely chopped thyme. Drizzle with extra virgin olive oil and mix well to coat evenly.
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Roast the tomatoes: Preheat your fan-assisted oven to 140°C (280°F). Lay the seasoned tomatoes on a baking sheet in a single layer and roast for about 1.5 hours. The tomatoes should soften, dry out slightly, and turn a rich, concentrated red.
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Cook the pasta: While the tomatoes are roasting, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the linguine and cook according to the package instructions, ensuring they remain al dente. Drain the pasta, reserving some of the cooking water for later.
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Prepare the anchovy breadcrumbs: In a large non-stick frying pan, heat a little extra virgin olive oil over low heat. Add the anchovies and let them dissolve gently in the oil. Once dissolved, add the breadcrumbs and cook until they turn golden and crisp.
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Combine the pasta and confit tomatoes: Add the cooked linguine to the pan with the breadcrumbs. Toss to combine, ensuring the breadcrumbs coat the pasta evenly.
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Finish the dish: Gently fold in the confit cherry tomatoes and fresh basil leaves, torn into strips. Toss everything together for a couple of minutes to heat through.
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Serve: Divide the linguine with confit cherry tomatoes into individual plates, garnish with extra basil if desired, and serve immediately, enjoying the sweet, aromatic flavors of the confit tomatoes paired with the savory breadcrumbs.
This Linguine with Confit Cherry Tomatoes is a delightful and elegant pasta dish that combines the natural sweetness of slow-roasted tomatoes with the rich flavor of anchovy-infused breadcrumbs. Perfect for a casual dinner or a special occasion, this recipe brings the heartwarming flavors of Italian cuisine to your table.
