01 -
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
02 -
Cut the cherry tomatoes in half and place them on a baking sheet.
03 -
Drizzle the olive oil over the tomatoes, then sprinkle with minced garlic, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper.
04 -
Toss the tomatoes and garlic mixture together to ensure even coating.
05 -
Roast the tomatoes in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes or until they are soft and slightly caramelized.
06 -
While the tomatoes roast, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
07 -
Once the water is boiling, add the pasta and cook according to the package instructions, typically around 9-11 minutes for spaghetti or penne.
08 -
While the pasta cooks, prepare the ricotta sauce by combining the ricotta cheese, grated Parmesan cheese, chopped fresh basil, and lemon juice in a bowl.
09 -
Once the pasta is al dente, reserve about 1/2 cup of pasta water before draining the pasta.
10 -
Drain the pasta and return it to the pot, keeping it warm.
11 -
When the roasted tomatoes are done, remove them from the oven and gently smash them with the back of a spoon to release their juices.
12 -
Add the roasted tomatoes and any juices from the baking sheet to the pasta.
13 -
Pour the ricotta cheese mixture over the pasta and toss everything together until well combined.
14 -
If the sauce seems too thick, gradually add the reserved pasta water until you reach your desired consistency.
15 -
Taste the pasta and adjust the seasoning with additional salt, pepper, or lemon juice if needed.
16 -
Serve the pasta immediately, garnishing with extra fresh basil or Parmesan cheese if desired.