Description
Craft a vibrant, flavorful spaghetti sauce in under 30 minutes with this easy cherry tomato recipe. It’s naturally sweet, tangy, and perfect for quick weeknight meals.
Ingredients
- 2 Pints (approx. 4 cups) Cherry Tomatoes or Grape Tomatoes
- 3 Tablespoons Extra Virgin Olive Oil
- 4–5 Cloves Garlic, minced
- 1/2 Teaspoon Red Pepper Flakes (optional, adjust to taste)
- 1/2 Teaspoon Salt (or to taste)
- 1/4 Teaspoon Black Pepper (freshly ground, or to taste)
- 1/4 Cup Fresh Basil Leaves, roughly chopped
- Cooked Spaghetti or Pasta, for serving
- Parmesan Cheese, for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- 1. Sauté Aromatics: In a large skillet over medium heat, add the olive oil. Once shimmering, add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes (if using). Sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant, being careful not to brown the garlic.
- 2. Cook Tomatoes: Add the cherry tomatoes, salt, and black pepper to the skillet. Stir well to combine. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, then reduce heat to low, cover, and cook for 10-15 minutes, or until the tomatoes have softened and burst. Occasionally stir and gently mash some of the tomatoes with the back of your spoon.
- 3. Simmer and Thicken: Uncover the skillet and continue to simmer for another 5-10 minutes to allow any excess liquid to evaporate and the sauce to thicken slightly. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
- 4. Finish with Basil: Remove the skillet from heat and stir in the fresh basil leaves. The residual heat will gently wilt the basil.
- 5. Serve: Toss the cherry tomato spaghetti sauce with your preferred cooked pasta. Serve immediately, garnished with fresh Parmesan cheese if desired.
- Prep Time: 10 mins
- Cook Time: 20 mins