Description
This incredibly simple yet flavorful cherry tomato spaghetti sauce is bursting with concentrated tomato sweetness thanks to oven roasting. It’s perfect for an easy, delicious, and satisfying weeknight meal.
Ingredients
- 2 lbs (approx. 900g) cherry or grape tomatoes
- 4–5 cloves garlic, thinly sliced or minced
- 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil, plus more for serving
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, to taste)
- 1/2 teaspoon salt, or to taste
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper, or to taste
- 1/2 cup fresh basil, chopped
- 1 lb spaghetti or your favorite pasta
- 1 cup reserved pasta water (optional)
Instructions
- Prep the Tomatoes: Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). On a large rimmed baking sheet, combine cherry tomatoes and sliced garlic. Drizzle with 1/4 cup olive oil, sprinkle with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using). Toss to coat.
- Roast: Roast for 25-35 minutes, or until tomatoes have burst, softened, and started to caramelize.
- Mash & Simmer: Carefully transfer roasted tomatoes and all pan juices to a medium saucepan. Mash gently with a potato masher or fork. Bring to a gentle simmer over medium-low heat and cook for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Season: Remove from heat and stir in fresh chopped basil. Taste and adjust seasonings as needed.
- Combine with Pasta: Cook spaghetti according to package directions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water. Drain spaghetti and add directly to the sauce. Toss to combine, adding splashes of reserved pasta water as needed to create a silky sauce. Serve immediately, garnished with fresh basil and Parmesan cheese if desired.
- Prep Time: 10 mins
- Cook Time: 30 mins