Description
Create the best flavor cherry tomato spaghetti sauce with our easy-to-follow, step-by-step recipe. Perfect for a quick and delicious meal that bursts with fresh flavor!
Ingredients
- 2 pints (about 4 cups) cherry or grape tomatoes, halved
- 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 4–5 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 – 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, adjust to taste)
- 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
- 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh oregano, chopped (or 1 tsp dried)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- Cooked spaghetti or your favorite pasta, for serving
- Freshly grated Parmesan cheese, for serving (optional)
Instructions
- Prep Tomatoes: Halve all cherry tomatoes.
- Sauté Aromatics: In a large skillet or pot, 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.
- Simmer Tomatoes: Add halved cherry tomatoes to the skillet. Stir to coat. Cover and simmer over medium-low heat for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until tomatoes are very soft and have burst.
- Mash and Season: Using the back of a spoon or a potato masher, gently mash the tomatoes to your desired consistency. Stir in balsamic vinegar, fresh basil, and fresh oregano. Season generously with salt and freshly cracked black pepper. Taste and adjust seasonings.
- Thicken (Optional): Simmer uncovered for an additional 5-10 minutes if you prefer a thicker sauce.
- Serve: Toss the warm sauce with cooked spaghetti or your favorite pasta. Garnish with freshly grated Parmesan cheese and extra fresh basil, if desired.
- Prep Time: 10 mins
- Cook Time: 30 mins