Pasta allo Scarpariello with Cherry Tomatoes

This beautiful dish features fresh cherry tomatoes, pecorino, parmigiano, and plenty of fresh basil that brings a vibrant, aromatic lift. Plus, there's a surprising twist—canned cherry tomatoes for added sweetness and juice. The Pecorino Romano and Parmigiano Reggiano create a creamy sauce that envelopes the Mezzi Paccheri, turning each bite into a delightful burst of sweet tomatoes and velvety cheese.

📝 Ingredients

• 300 g /10.5oz Mezzi Paccheri
• 1 small can Italian cherry tomatoes
• 300 g /10.5oz fresh cherry tomatoes (halved)
• 3 Tbsp pecorino cheese (grated)
• 3 Tbsp Parmigiano Reggiano (grated)
• 1 Tbsp chili (chopped)
• 2 garlic cloves
• A fresh bunch of basil
• Salt and pepper
• Extra virgin olive oil (Evoo)

👨‍🍳 Instructions

1. 1Fill a large pot with water and bring it to boil. Add 1 tablespoon of rock salt and allow it to dissolve.
2. 2Add the Mezzi Paccheri pasta, which should takes about 10 minutes to cook (follow the time noted on your pasta packet). Give the pasta a quick stir to prevent sticking.
3. 3Heat a large pan over medium heat and add 6 tablespoons of EVOO.
4. 4Before the oil gets too hot, add a splash of water and the crushed garlic, then give it a stir.
5. 5Add the chopped chili and continue stirring for 30 seconds, then reduce the heat and add the halved cherry tomatoes.
6. 6Press down on the cherry tomatoes using a tomato crusher or the back of your wooden spoon.
7. 7Once the juice releases, increase the heat to medium-high and add the canned cherry tomatoes. Press them down and mix well.
8. 8Season with salt and pepper to taste, then tear half of the basil leaves by hand and add them in. Save the other half for later.
9. 9Lower the heat and stir frequently.
10. 10Once the pasta is almost ready, scoop up a mug full of pasta water and set it aside.
11. 11Taste the pasta to check if it is al dente (to your liking), if so, strain the pasta and add it to the sauce, stirring to combine.
12. 12-To thicken the sauce and create a more moist texture, add some of the reserved pasta water and toss.
13. 13Turn off the heat then add the grated pecorino and Parmigiano. Continue to toss the pasta until the cheese is well incorporated and serve right away.