Description
This quick and easy cherry tomato spaghetti sauce is bursting with fresh, sweet, and tangy flavors. It’s the perfect weeknight meal for busy home cooks craving something homemade and satisfying.
Ingredients
- 2 pints (about 4 cups) cherry or grape tomatoes, halved
- 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
- 4–5 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, roughly chopped, plus more for garnish
- 1–2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar (optional, for depth)
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- Pinch of sugar (optional, to balance acidity)
- 12 oz spaghetti or pasta of choice
- 1/2 cup reserved pasta water (or more)
- Freshly grated Parmesan cheese, for serving
Instructions
- Step 1: Prep Your Ingredients: Halve cherry tomatoes, mince garlic, and roughly chop basil.
- Step 2: Sauté Aromatics: Heat olive oil in a wide skillet over medium heat. Add garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
- Step 3: Blister the Tomatoes: Add halved cherry tomatoes to the skillet. Increase heat to medium-high and cook for 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until tomatoes soften and burst. Gently press some with a spoon.
- Step 4: Simmer to Perfection: Reduce heat to low. Stir in optional balsamic vinegar and red pepper flakes. Simmer gently for 5-7 minutes.
- Step 5: Season and Finish: Remove from heat. Stir in fresh basil. Season with salt, pepper, and a pinch of sugar if needed. Toss with cooked spaghetti and reserved pasta water. Serve with Parmesan cheese.
- Prep Time: 10 mins
- Cook Time: 20 mins