Skip to main content

Pasta à la Checca

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.

Continue reading below

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

  1. Cook the pasta until al dente.

  2. 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).

  3. Add the garlic, oil, rocket (if using), salt, and pepper; set aside.

  4. 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.

  5. 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
flu eligibility checker

Ask, share, connect.

Browse discussions, ask questions, and share experiences across hundreds of health topics.

symptom checker

Feeling unwell?

Assess your symptoms online for free

Sign up to the Patient newsletter

Your weekly dose of clear, trustworthy health advice - written to help you feel informed, confident and in control.

Please enter a valid email address

By subscribing you accept our Privacy Policy. You can unsubscribe at any time. We never sell your data.