Description
Create a vibrant and intensely flavorful cherry tomato spaghetti sauce with this easy-to-follow recipe. Perfect for a quick and satisfying meal that tastes gourmet.
Ingredients
- 2 pints (about 4 cups) cherry or grape tomatoes, halved
- 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 1 small yellow onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 – 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, to taste)
- 1/2 teaspoon salt, or to taste
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper, or to taste
- 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, roughly chopped
- Optional: 1/4 – 1/2 teaspoon granulated sugar (to balance acidity)
Instructions
- 1. Prep Ingredients: Halve cherry tomatoes, finely chop onion, mince garlic, and chop basil.
- 2. Sauté Aromatics: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add onion and cook until translucent (5-7 mins). Add garlic and red pepper flakes, cook until fragrant (1 min).
- 3. Simmer Tomatoes: Add halved tomatoes, salt, and pepper to the pan. Bring to a gentle simmer, then reduce heat to low, cover, and cook for 15-20 minutes until tomatoes are soft and burst.
- 4. Mash & Reduce: Uncover and gently mash tomatoes with a spoon. Simmer uncovered for 5-10 minutes more to reduce and thicken the sauce to your desired consistency.
- 5. Finish: Remove from heat, stir in fresh basil, and adjust seasoning (salt, pepper, or a pinch of sugar) to taste. Serve immediately with your favorite pasta.
- Prep Time: 10 mins
- Cook Time: 25-30 mins