Description
This vibrant cherry tomato spaghetti sauce is incredibly flavorful and comes together in less than 30 minutes. Perfect for a busy weeknight meal, it celebrates the sweet simplicity of fresh cherry tomatoes.
Ingredients
- 1.5 lbs (approx. 4 cups) cherry or grape tomatoes, halved
- 3–4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
- 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (or more, to taste)
- 1/2 cup fresh basil leaves, roughly chopped or whole
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Optional: 1/4 tsp sugar (to balance acidity)
- Optional: 2 tbsp dry red or white wine / vegetable broth / 1 tbsp tomato paste
Instructions
- 1. Prep Tomatoes & Garlic: Halve cherry tomatoes. Mince garlic.
- 2. Sauté Aromatics: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add minced garlic and red pepper flakes. Sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant, being careful not to burn.
- 3. Add Tomatoes & Simmer: Add halved tomatoes to the pan. Season generously with salt and pepper. Increase heat to medium-high for 1-2 minutes until tomatoes start to burst, then reduce to medium-low, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes, stirring and mashing occasionally until tomatoes break down into a saucy consistency.
- 4. Adjust Texture (Optional): For a smoother sauce, blend half or all of the sauce with an immersion blender or in a regular blender until desired consistency.
- 5. Finish with Herbs: Remove from heat. Stir in fresh basil. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed, adding a pinch of sugar if tomatoes are too tart. Serve immediately over your favorite pasta.
- Prep Time: 10 mins
- Cook Time: 20 mins