Description
Unlock the vibrant flavors of summer with this incredibly easy and delicious cherry tomato spaghetti sauce. Perfect for a quick weeknight meal or a comforting weekend dinner.
Ingredients
- 1.5 lbs (about 4 cups) fresh cherry tomatoes
- 4 cloves garlic, thinly sliced or minced
- 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil, plus more for drizzling
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
- 1/2 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped or torn
- Salt to taste
- Freshly ground black pepper to taste
- Optional: 1 tbsp butter, for richness
Instructions
- 1. Prep Ingredients: Wash tomatoes. Slice garlic. Roughly chop or tear basil.
- 2. Sauté Aromatics: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add garlic and red pepper flakes (if using). Sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant and lightly golden.
- 3. Add Tomatoes & Simmer: Add cherry tomatoes to the pan. Season with salt and pepper. Increase heat to medium-high until tomatoes begin to burst. Reduce heat to medium-low, cover, and simmer for 10-15 minutes until very soft.
- 4. Crush & Reduce: Uncover and use the back of a wooden spoon or potato masher to gently crush the tomatoes. Increase heat to medium and simmer, uncovered, for 5-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens to your desired consistency.
- 5. Finish with Herbs: Remove from heat. Stir in fresh basil and optional butter. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Serve immediately over your favorite pasta.
- Prep Time: 10 mins
- Cook Time: 25 mins