Description
This easy and delicious cherry tomato spaghetti sauce bursts with fresh flavor, perfect for a quick weeknight meal. Sweet, tangy tomatoes combine with garlic and basil for a truly satisfying pasta experience.
Ingredients
- 1 lb (about 4 cups) cherry tomatoes, whole or halved
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1/2 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1 lb spaghetti or your favorite pasta
- 1/2 – 1 cup reserved pasta water
Instructions
- Prep Ingredients: Wash cherry tomatoes. Mince garlic and chop basil. Start boiling water for pasta and cook according to package directions, reserving at least 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
- Sauté Aromatics: In a large skillet or sauté pan, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and red pepper flakes (if using) and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant, being careful not to burn the garlic.
- Cook Tomatoes: Add cherry tomatoes to the pan. Season with salt and black pepper. Cook for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until tomatoes soften and burst, releasing their juices. Gently press some with a spoon to break them down further.
- Build Sauce: Stir in 1/2 cup of reserved pasta water. Simmer for 2-3 minutes, allowing the sauce to reduce slightly and thicken. If needed, add more pasta water for desired consistency.
- Finish and Toss: Remove from heat and stir in fresh basil. Add the cooked pasta directly to the sauce pan. Toss vigorously until the pasta is evenly coated with the rich sauce. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Serve immediately with Parmesan cheese, if desired.
- Prep Time: 10 mins
- Cook Time: 20 mins