Pasta with Fresh Tomatoes and Herbs
1 fat shallot, mincedÂ
2 cups chopped tomatoes, any ripe and juicy variety (or a combination)Â
â…“ cup loosely packed herbs, chopped (a combination of at least two: basil, marjoram, thyme, Italian parsley, fennel fronds)Â
½ cup extra-virgin olive oilÂ
Zest of 1 lemonÂ
â…› cup freshly squeezed lemon juiceÂ
Salt and freshly ground pepper to tasteÂ
 1 lb. tagliatelle or fettucine (fresh or dried egg pasta)Â
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n a medium bowl, combine the garlic, shallot, tomatoes, herbs, olive oil, lemon zest, lemon juice, a big pinch of salt, and a couple of turns of freshly ground black pepper. Stir to combine, then cover with plastic wrap. Allow to rest at room temperature at least 30 minutes or up to several hours. When ready to eat, put a large pot of salted water on the stove to boil. Cook pasta to al dente, then drain. Taste tomato sauce, adding more salt if necessary. Toss drained pasta with tomato sauce and serve immediately.