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Farfalle with Wilted Frisée and Burst Tomatoes

This vibrant farfalle with wilted frisée and burst tomatoes is a sophisticated take on a classic vegetarian pasta dish. By slowly cooking seasonal cherry tomatoes in olive oil until they pop, you create a sweet, jammy sauce that perfectly balances the slightly peppery notes of the frisée. A hint of lemon zest and a pinch of dried chillies add a bright, citrusy warmth that elevates this simple meal into something truly special for a mid-week treat.

Ideal for a quick homemade supper, this recipe relies on fresh produce and minimal prep to deliver maximum flavour. The addition of starchy pasta water and a little butter creates a silky sauce that clings to the farfalle, ensuring a comforting texture. Serve it in shallow bowls with a generous dusting of Parmesan for a light yet satisfying Mediterranean-inspired meal.

Continue reading below

Ingredients for Farfalle with Wilted Frisée and Burst Tomatoes

  • 45ml extra-virgin olive oil

  • 850ml cherry tomatoes

  • 2 large garlic cloves, minced

  • 1 teaspoon grated lemon peel

  • 1/4 teaspoons dried crushed red pepper

  • 2 large heads of frisée (about 450g ), coarsely chopped

  • 350g farfalle (bow-tie pasta)

  • 4 tablespoons (1/2 stick) unsalted butter, cut into 1/2-inch pieces

  • 60g freshly grated Parmesan cheese

How to make Farfalle with Wilted Frisée and Burst Tomatoes

Heat oil in heavy large skillet over medium-high heat. Add tomatoes and cook, stirring frequently, until tomatoes begin to burst, about 8 minutes. Add garlic, lemon peel, and dried crushed red pepper; cook 2 minutes longer. Add frisée in batches and cook until wilted, about 3 minutes total. Season tomato-frisée mixture with salt and pepper.

Meanwhile, cook pasta in pot of boiling salted water until tender but still firm to bite, stirring occasionally. Drain, reserving 240ml cooking liquid.

Add pasta to skillet with tomato-frisée mixture. Stir in butter. Add reserved pasta liquid by 60ml fuls if dry. Divide pasta among shallow bowls and serve, passing cheese separately.

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.

  • 17 Jan 2026 | Originally published

    Authored by:

    UK recipe editors

    Peer reviewed by

    UK recipe editors
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