Description
Unlock incredible flavor with this easy-to-bake roasted cherry tomato spaghetti sauce. Perfect for a quick, delicious weeknight meal or an impressive dinner party.
Ingredients
- 2 lbs (about 4 cups) cherry or grape tomatoes
- 1 medium red onion, roughly chopped
- 6–8 cloves garlic, unpeeled
- 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
- 1 tsp dried oregano (or 1 tbsp fresh chopped)
- 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional, adjust to taste)
- 1 tbsp balsamic vinegar
- 1/2 cup fresh basil, chopped (for garnish and final stir)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- 1 lb spaghetti or pasta of choice
- Reserved pasta water (optional, for thinning sauce)
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). On a large baking sheet, combine cherry tomatoes, chopped red onion, and unpeeled garlic cloves. Drizzle with olive oil, season with dried oregano, red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and pepper. Toss to coat evenly.
- Roast for 25-35 minutes, or until tomatoes are burst, shriveled, and slightly caramelized, and garlic is soft.
- Remove from oven. Squeeze garlic from skins into the baking sheet. Add balsamic vinegar to the hot pan. Using a potato masher or fork, gently mash the tomatoes and garlic until a chunky sauce forms.
- Transfer the sauce to a saucepan and simmer over low heat for 10-15 minutes, allowing flavors to meld. If the sauce becomes too thick, add a splash of reserved pasta water.
- Remove from heat, stir in fresh chopped basil. Taste and adjust seasonings as needed.
- Serve hot over cooked spaghetti, tossing to coat.
- Prep Time: 15 mins
- Cook Time: 35 mins