Description
This easy-to-bake cherry tomato spaghetti sauce recipe transforms simple ingredients into a gourmet weeknight meal. Enjoy the vibrant, sweet, and tangy flavors of roasted tomatoes with your favorite pasta.
Ingredients
- 2 lbs (about 4–5 cups) cherry or grape tomatoes
- 4–5 cloves fresh garlic, thinly sliced or chopped
- 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil, plus more for drizzling
- 1/2 cup fresh basil leaves, torn or chopped
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 12 oz spaghetti or your preferred pasta
- Optional: Grated Parmesan or Pecorino Romano cheese for serving
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Arrange cherry tomatoes and garlic on a large rimmed baking sheet. Drizzle with 1/4 cup olive oil, season with salt and pepper, and toss to coat.
- Roast for 20-30 minutes, until tomatoes burst and begin to caramelize.
- Transfer roasted tomatoes and pan juices to a saucepan. Mash gently with a spoon or potato masher to create a rustic sauce. Simmer over medium-low heat for 10-15 minutes, allowing flavors to meld.
- While sauce simmers, cook pasta according to package directions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup pasta water before draining.
- Add drained pasta to the sauce. Toss well, adding reserved pasta water a tablespoon at a time if needed to reach desired consistency.
- Stir in fresh basil. Taste and adjust seasoning. Serve immediately, garnished with cheese if desired.
- Prep Time: 10 mins
- Cook Time: 30 mins