Description
This easy cherry tomato spaghetti sauce is bursting with naturally sweet and tangy flavors from roasted cherry tomatoes and garlic. It’s a weeknight lifesaver that tastes gourmet.
Ingredients
- 2 lbs (approx. 4-5 cups) fresh cherry tomatoes
- 6–8 cloves garlic, peeled (whole or roughly chopped)
- 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (or to taste)
- 1 tsp sea salt (or to taste)
- 1/2 tsp black pepper (freshly ground)
- 1/2 cup fresh basil leaves, torn or chopped
- Optional: Pinch of sugar or drizzle of balsamic glaze, to taste
- For serving: 1 lb spaghetti, cooked al dente
Instructions
- 1. Preheat Oven & Prep Ingredients: Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). On a large baking sheet, combine cherry tomatoes, garlic, olive oil, dried oregano, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper. Toss to coat evenly.
- 2. Roast Tomatoes: Roast for 25-35 minutes, or until tomatoes are burst, softened, and slightly caramelized.
- 3. Simmer & Mash Sauce: Transfer roasted tomatoes and all juices to a saucepan. Over medium heat, gently mash tomatoes with a spoon or potato masher. Simmer for 5-10 minutes, allowing flavors to meld. Add a splash of pasta water if too thick.
- 4. Finish & Serve: Remove from heat. Stir in fresh basil. Taste and adjust seasoning, adding optional sugar or balsamic glaze if desired. Toss with cooked spaghetti and serve immediately.
- Prep Time: 10 mins
- Cook Time: 35 mins