Description
This effortlessly delicious baked cherry tomato spaghetti sauce bursts with sweet, concentrated tomato flavor and aromatic roasted garlic. It’s a hands-off weeknight wonder that tastes gourmet.
Ingredients
- 2 lbs (about 900g) cherry tomatoes, any variety
- 6–8 cloves garlic, unpeeled
- 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
- 1/2 teaspoon sea salt, or to taste
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper, or to taste
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a kick)
- 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh oregano, chopped (or 1 teaspoon dried)
- 1 tablespoon fresh thyme, chopped (optional)
- 1/4 cup water or vegetable broth (if needed for consistency)
Instructions
- 1. Prep Tomatoes & Garlic: Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Spread cherry tomatoes and unpeeled garlic cloves on a large rimmed baking sheet.
- 2. Season & Drizzle: Drizzle with olive oil, sprinkle with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes. Toss to coat.
- 3. Bake Until Bursting: Roast for 25-35 minutes until tomatoes burst and caramelize, and garlic is tender.
- 4. Mash & Simmer: Squeeze garlic from skins, mash tomatoes and garlic on the baking sheet. Transfer to a saucepan, add water/broth if needed, and simmer for 5-10 minutes.
- 5. Finish with Herbs: Remove from heat, stir in fresh basil, oregano, and thyme. Taste and adjust seasoning. Serve hot over pasta.
- Prep Time: 10 mins
- Cook Time: 35 mins