Spaghetti with Semi-Dried Tomatoes, Garlic, Herbs & Breadcrumbs 2026

Spaghetti with semi-dried tomatoes, garlic, herbs and breadcrumbs is a classic Sicilian-inspired pasta that brings intense flavor to your table. This recipe uses semi-dried tomatoes, which are leathery on the outside but soft and sweet inside, creating a perfect balance with garlic and crunchy breadcrumbs. Whether you make your own semi-dried tomatoes or buy them, this dish is a weeknight winner.

The Art of Semi-Drying Tomatoes

Semi-drying tomatoes concentrates their natural sugars and umami, making them a fantastic ingredient for pasta. The process is simple but requires attention to temperature and humidity. In Sicily, sun-drying is traditional, but an oven works just as well, especially when weather is unpredictable.

Sun-Drying vs. Oven-Drying

Both methods yield delicious results, but they differ in time and control. Sun-drying takes days and depends on climate, while oven-drying is faster and more reliable. Here's a quick comparison:

For this recipe, we prefer semi-dried tomatoes—they retain a juicy, toffee-like center that contrasts beautifully with the crispy breadcrumbs.

How to Make Spaghetti with Semi-Dried Tomatoes

Start with 1-2 kg of cherry tomatoes. Halve them, sprinkle with salt, and arrange on a wire rack. If using the oven, set it to 130°C and bake for about an hour, or until wrinkled and slightly dry on top but still soft inside. For sun-drying, leave them outside in direct sun for two days, bringing them in at night.

Once your semi-dried tomatoes are ready, cook spaghetti in salted water until al dente. Meanwhile, heat olive oil in a pan, add sliced garlic and cook until fragrant. Toss in the semi-dried tomatoes, a handful of fresh herbs like basil or oregano, and a pinch of chili flakes. Add the drained pasta and a splash of pasta water to create a silky sauce. Finish with toasted breadcrumbs for crunch.

Key Takeaways

• Semi-dried tomatoes are the star—make them at home or buy quality ones.
• Oven-drying at 130°C gives consistent results in about an hour.
• Use garlic, herbs, and breadcrumbs to balance the sweet-tart tomatoes.
• Reserve pasta water to emulsify the sauce perfectly.

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