Fettuccine with Oven-Roasted Tomato Sauce
Cook Time: 45 Minutes
Prep Time: 10 Minutes
Total Time: 55 Minutes
Servings: 4
Description
This Fettuccine with Oven-Roasted Tomato Sauce is the perfect recipe for when tomatoes are at their peak. The dish boasts a naturally sweet and smoky flavor, thanks to the slow roasting of the tomatoes. The addition of crispy pancetta and fresh herbs makes this dish stand out, while the creamy parmesan cheese adds the finishing touch to a deliciously simple, yet satisfying meal. Whether you’re preparing it for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this recipe is sure to become a favorite. While the ingredients are basic, their harmonious combination ensures that every bite is bursting with flavor. Be cautious with substitutions, as changing any ingredient might alter the delicate balance of flavors.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Extra virgin olive oil | 2 tablespoons |
| Pancetta | 1/4 pound |
| Plum tomatoes | 3 cups |
| Onion | 1/2 medium |
| Garlic cloves | 2, minced |
| Fresh sage | 1 1/2 tablespoons |
| Kosher salt | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Fresh ground black pepper | 1/3 teaspoon |
| Parmesan cheese | 1/2 cup |
| Fettuccine | 1 pound |
Nutritional Information (per serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 604.3 |
| Total Fat | 15 g |
| Saturated Fat | 4 g |
| Cholesterol | 103.1 mg |
| Sodium | 823.2 mg |
| Total Carbohydrates | 97.1 g |
| Dietary Fiber | 8.5 g |
| Sugars | 11.6 g |
| Protein | 22.6 g |
Instructions
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Preheat the Oven: Start by heating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This is the perfect temperature for roasting the tomatoes to achieve that sweet, smoky flavor.
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Cook the Pancetta: In a large, deep ovenproof skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil over medium-low heat. Add the pancetta and cook it until it turns golden brown and crispy, which should take about 10 to 12 minutes. Once crispy, remove the pancetta with a slotted spoon and set it aside on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess fat.
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Prepare the Tomatoes: Place the plum tomatoes in the same skillet with the rendered pancetta fat and the remaining 2 tablespoons of olive oil. Toss them gently to coat in the oil. This will allow the tomatoes to roast in the delicious fat, infusing them with savory flavors. Roast the tomatoes in the preheated oven for about 25 minutes, or until they’re golden brown around the edges and soft to the touch.
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Add the Aromatics: After roasting the tomatoes, add the chopped onion, minced garlic, and fresh sage to the skillet. Stir to combine everything thoroughly. Roast the mixture for an additional 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
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Mash the Tomatoes: Once the tomatoes are roasted and soft, carefully remove the skillet from the oven. Use a wooden spoon to gently mash the tomatoes, breaking them up into a chunky sauce. Return the pancetta to the skillet, along with the kosher salt, freshly ground black pepper, and half of the parmesan cheese. Stir everything together to ensure the flavors are well combined.
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Cook the Fettuccine: While the tomato sauce is roasting, cook the fettuccine according to the package instructions. Be sure to cook the pasta until it’s al dente. Drain the pasta, reserving some of the cooking water in case you need to thin out the sauce.
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Combine Pasta and Sauce: Add the cooked fettuccine to the skillet with the roasted tomato sauce. Toss the pasta in the sauce until it’s evenly coated. If you prefer a thinner sauce, add a little bit of the reserved pasta cooking water to the tomato mixture and stir it in.
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Serve and Garnish: Once the pasta is well coated with the sauce, serve it hot on individual plates. Garnish with freshly grated parmesan cheese for added richness and flavor. Serve immediately and enjoy this wonderfully simple and flavorful dish!
Tips:
- Customization: If you’re looking for an extra boost of flavor, feel free to add a pinch of red pepper flakes for some heat, or a drizzle of balsamic vinegar to enhance the roasted tomatoes’ sweetness.
- Substitutions: If you don’t have pancetta, you can substitute with bacon or prosciutto, but note that it will change the flavor profile slightly. You could also use gluten-free pasta if you prefer a gluten-free version of this dish.
- Serving Suggestions: This dish pairs wonderfully with a simple side salad or a slice of garlic bread to help scoop up any remaining sauce.
This Fettuccine with Oven-Roasted Tomato Sauce recipe is an absolute crowd-pleaser, offering bold flavors with minimal ingredients. It’s perfect for weeknights when you want something hearty and comforting, yet full of fresh, seasonal flavors. Whether you’re an experienced cook or just starting out, this dish is simple enough to follow and yields delicious results every time. So, grab your favorite pasta, and enjoy the irresistible combination of oven-roasted tomatoes, crispy pancetta, and savory herbs in this unforgettable Italian-inspired dish.
