Description
This vibrant cherry tomato spaghetti sauce is bursting with fresh, sweet flavors and comes together quickly. It’s the perfect weeknight meal solution that tastes like it simmered all day.
Ingredients
- 2 pints (approx. 4 cups) cherry or grape tomatoes, halved
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, adjust to taste)
- 1/2 cup fresh basil leaves, roughly chopped
- Salt, to taste
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese, for serving (optional)
- 1 lb spaghetti or your favorite pasta
Instructions
- 1. Prepare Ingredients: Halve cherry tomatoes. Mince garlic.
- 2. Sauté Aromatics: In a large skillet or Dutch oven, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and red pepper flakes (if using). Sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant, being careful not to burn the garlic.
- 3. Simmer Tomatoes: Add halved cherry tomatoes to the skillet. Stir to combine. Bring to a gentle simmer, then reduce heat to medium-low, cover, and cook for 15-20 minutes, or until tomatoes have burst and softened, stirring occasionally.
- 4. Mash & Season: Uncover and use a potato masher or the back of a spoon to gently mash the tomatoes to your desired consistency. Season generously with salt and black pepper. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
- 5. Finish with Basil: Remove from heat and stir in fresh basil. The residual heat will wilt the basil.
- 6. Serve: Toss the sauce with cooked pasta. Serve immediately, garnished with Parmesan cheese if desired.
- Prep Time: 10 mins
- Cook Time: 30 mins