Charred Tomato & Garlic Pasta

Instructions

1. Prepare Tomato Broth

   2 min hands-on1 min waiting

   • Warm half of the olive oil in a small saucepan over medium heat.
   • Stir in the tomato sauce and cook for 1 minute.
   • Gradually add water and mix until combined.
   • Add half of the salt and bring to a gentle boil, then set aside.

2. Infuse Garlic and Spice

   2 min hands-on

   • Peel and crush the garlic.
   • Heat the remaining olive oil in a large frying pan over medium heat.
   • Add garlic and cayenne pepper, sauté for 30 seconds without burning.

3. Create Tomato Base

   2 min hands-on1 min waiting

   • Chop sun-dried tomatoes if needed and add to the pan.
   • Stir to coat in garlic and oil mixture.
   • Pour in a ladleful of tomato broth to deglaze and bring to a simmer.
   • Add remaining salt and stir.

4. Cook Pasta in Sauce

   5 min hands-on10 min waiting

   • Place dry pasta on top of the simmering tomato sauce.
   • Add a portion of the tomato broth to start cooking the pasta.
   • Stir occasionally to prevent sticking and ensure even absorption.
   • Continue adding broth in increments as liquid reduces.

5. Achieve Desired Texture

   2 min hands-on3 min waiting

   • Stop adding broth when pasta is al dente.
   • Cook further in sauce over medium heat until sauce thickens and pasta edges crisp.
   • Stir occasionally to prevent burning, allowing some charring.

6. Plate and Garnish

   1 min hands-on

   • Remove from heat when sauce clings to pasta.
   • Serve immediately on warm plates.
   • Drizzle with olive oil and add cayenne pepper if desired.
   • Cooking tips:
   • Monitor the heat closely during the garlic sauté to ensure it doesn’t burn, as burnt garlic will impart a bitter flavor.
   • For a more herby flavor, consider adding fresh basil or parsley as a garnish.
   • If the pasta finishes cooking before the desired charred texture is achieved, let it sit undisturbed in the pan for a few seconds to crisp up.
   • Use a good-quality olive oil for the final drizzle to elevate the dish's flavor profile.