Wash tomatoes and slice into halves or quarters. Put into a large skillet ( without heating) with the shallots, garlic, olive oil and parsley. Season to taste with salt and pepper.
Bring a large pot of water to the boil . Add salt and pasta and cook until al dente.
About one minute before the pasta has finished cooking warm the tomatoes quickly over a medium high heat. Don’t let them cook, they just need to be heated through.
When the pasta has finished cooking drain and add the tomatoes. Toss well and serve immediately with some black pepper and grated parmesan.
If you want to serve cold as a salad add the hot pasta to the tomatoes and other ingredients without warming them. Toss well and season to taste with red wine vinegar. You could also add olives and capers if wished.