Description
A vibrant and fresh cherry tomato spaghetti sauce highlighting the natural sweetness of burst tomatoes. Perfect for a quick, flavorful weeknight meal.
Ingredients
- 2 pints (about 4 cups) cherry or grape tomatoes
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup good quality extra virgin olive oil
- 1/2 cup fresh basil leaves, torn or roughly chopped
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, adjust to taste)
- Salt to taste
- Freshly ground black pepper to taste
- 1 pound spaghetti or your favorite pasta
Instructions
- 1. Prep Ingredients: Rinse cherry tomatoes. Mince garlic. Have basil and seasonings ready.
- 2. Sauté Garlic: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-low heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant, being careful not to brown it.
- 3. Add Tomatoes: Increase heat to medium. Add cherry tomatoes to the pan. Cook, stirring occasionally, for 8-12 minutes until they soften, blister, and burst.
- 4. Mash Tomatoes: Use the back of a wooden spoon or a potato masher to gently mash some of the burst tomatoes, creating a slightly smoother texture for the sauce.
- 5. Simmer and Season: Reduce heat to low and simmer for 5-10 minutes, allowing flavors to meld. Stir in red pepper flakes (if using). Season generously with salt and fresh black pepper.
- 6. Finish with Basil: Remove from heat and stir in the fresh torn basil leaves just before serving. The residual heat will wilt the basil and release its aroma.
- 7. Serve: Toss the sauce with freshly cooked pasta, adding a splash of reserved pasta water if needed for consistency. Serve immediately with extra basil and grated cheese, if desired.
- Prep Time: 10 mins
- Cook Time: 20 mins