Description
Discover the best flavor in this cherry tomato spaghetti sauce with our easy-to-follow, step-by-step recipe. This vibrant, fresh sauce is a weeknight miracle.
Ingredients
- 1.5 lbs (about 4 cups) cherry tomatoes
- 4–6 cloves garlic, thinly sliced or minced
- 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
- 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional, adjust to taste)
- 1/2 cup fresh basil leaves, roughly chopped
- Salt to taste
- Freshly ground black pepper to taste
- For serving: Cooked spaghetti, freshly grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions
- 1. Prep Ingredients: Rinse cherry tomatoes. Slice or mince garlic cloves. Roughly chop fresh basil.
- 2. Sauté Aromatics: In a wide skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add garlic and red pepper flakes (if using). Sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant, being careful not to burn the garlic.
- 3. Simmer Tomatoes: Add cherry tomatoes to the skillet. Season generously with salt and pepper. Stir, then cover and reduce heat to medium-low. Simmer for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until tomatoes are very soft and have burst.
- 4. Mash and Finish: Uncover the skillet. Use a wooden spoon or potato masher to gently mash about 70-80% of the tomatoes, leaving some whole for texture. Stir in the fresh basil leaves. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
- 5. Serve: Toss the warm sauce with cooked spaghetti. Garnish with additional fresh basil and freshly grated Parmesan cheese, if desired. Enjoy immediately!
- Prep Time: 10 mins
- Cook Time: 25 mins