Burst Cherry Tomato and Chimichurri Penne

This vegetarian-friendly pasta dish may be enjoyed hot or cold.

Ingredients

• 2 tablespoons plus 1/4-1/3 cup extra virgin olive oil (EVOO), divided
• 4 cloves garlic, sliced
• 1 teaspoon crushed red pepper or 1 fresh red chili pepper, finely chopped
• 2 pints cherry tomatoes
• Salt and pepper
• 1 cup flat leaf parsley leaves
• 1 cup fresh basil leaves, loosley packed
• 1/2 cup fresh mint leaves
• 2 shallots, coarsely chopped
• 1 lemon, juiced
• 2 tablespoons sherry vinegar or balsamic vinegar
• 1 pound penne
• Shaved ricotta salata, for topping

Preparation

Bring a large pot of water to a boil.

In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons EVOO, two turns of the pan, over medium-high. Add the garlic and crushed red pepper and stir to combine. Add the tomatoes and season with salt and pepper; cover the pan. Cook, shaking the pan occasionally, until the tomatoes burst, about 15 minutes.

For the chimichurri, in a food processor, pulse the herbs, shallots, lemon juice, vinegar and 1/4 cup EVOO to a smooth paste. (Add more EVOO if necessary.)

Salt the boiling water, add the pasta and cook until al dente. Drain, reserving 1 cup of the starchy cooking water. Stir the starchy cooking water into the tomatoes.

Toss the pasta with the chimichurri and the tomatoes; season. Top with the ricotta salata.