Pasta à la Checca
Peer reviewed by UK recipe editorsAuthored by UK recipe editorsOriginally published 16 Jan 2026
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Pasta à la checca is a vibrant Italian classic that celebrates the simplicity of fresh, high-quality ingredients. This vegan dish features a clever 'no-cook' sauce made from sun-ripened cherry tomatoes, which are crushed by hand to release their sweet juices. The combination of pungent garlic, peppery rocket and rich extra-virgin olive oil creates a light yet deeply flavourful coating for the spaghetti, making it a perfect choice for a quick midweek meal or a relaxed summer lunch.
This versatile recipe is incredibly easy to prepare and can be served either warm or at room temperature, making it an excellent option for outdoor dining or meal prepping. By using the residual heat of the pasta to gently soften the raw ingredients, you maintain the bright, garden-fresh profile of the tomatoes. It is a nutritious, plant-based dinner that provides a sophisticated taste of the Mediterranean with minimal effort.
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Ingredients for Pasta à la Checca
230g thin spaghetti
1125ml cherry tomatoes (such as orange, red, and yellow teardrop varieties)
2 garlic cloves, peeled and finely chopped
60ml extra-virgin olive oil
1 cup fresh rocket (optional)
Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
How to make Pasta à la Checca
Cook the pasta until al dente.
Meanwhile, in a large bowl, squeeze the tomatoes to break them up (it's faster than chopping, and your kid will likely love joining in).
Add the garlic, oil, rocket (if using), salt, and pepper; set aside.
Drain the pasta (reserving 120ml the water) and toss it with the tomatoes. If the pasta is still a little dry, add some of the cooking water.
Let sit until the heat from the pasta has cooked the tomatoes and garlic slightly and wilted the rocket, 1 to 2 minutes. Serve warm or at room temperature.
Disclaimer
While every effort has been made to ensure the information is accurate and up to date, individual needs may vary and dietary requirements can differ based on personal health conditions. Always check food labels and allergen information before preparing or consuming any recipe. If you have specific health concerns, allergies, intolerances, or are following a medically prescribed diet, seek advice from your GP, pharmacist, or a registered dietitian before making significant changes to your diet or lifestyle.
Article history
The information on this page is peer reviewed by qualified clinicians.
16 Jan 2026 | Originally published
Authored by:
UK recipe editors
Peer reviewed by
UK recipe editors

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