Description
This quick and flavorful cherry tomato spaghetti sauce comes together in minutes, tasting like it’s been slow-simmered all day. Bursting with sweet, tangy goodness and fresh basil, it’s a true weeknight lifesaver.
Ingredients
- 1.5 lbs (about 4 cups) cherry or grape tomatoes
- 3–4 cloves garlic, minced or thinly sliced
- 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1/2 cup fresh basil leaves, roughly torn or chopped
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- Optional: 1 teaspoon balsamic glaze or vinegar
- 1 lb spaghetti or your favorite pasta
- Garnish: Fresh Parmesan cheese, sprig of fresh basil
Instructions
- 1. Prep Tomatoes & Garlic: Rinse tomatoes and mince garlic.
- 2. Sauté Aromatics: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium. Add garlic (and red pepper flakes, if using) and sauté 30-60 seconds until fragrant.
- 3. Simmer Sauce: Add cherry tomatoes to the pan. Cook over medium-high heat for 8-10 minutes, stirring, until tomatoes blister and burst. Gently crush unburst tomatoes. Reduce heat to a simmer.
- 4. Season & Finish: Simmer for 5-7 minutes. Season generously with salt and pepper. Stir in balsamic glaze (if using) and fresh basil.
- 5. Combine with Pasta: Cook pasta according to package directions, reserving 1 cup pasta water. Drain pasta and add to sauce. Toss to combine, adding pasta water if needed. Serve immediately.
- Prep Time: 10 mins
- Cook Time: 20 mins