Description
This easy-to-make sauce transforms sweet cherry tomatoes into a rich, vibrant sauce through the magic of roasting. It’s the perfect accompaniment to your favorite pasta.
Ingredients
- 2 lbs (about 900g) cherry or grape tomatoes, halved
- 6–8 cloves garlic, peeled and lightly smashed
- 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil, plus more for drizzling
- 1/2 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped, plus more for garnish
- 1/2 teaspoon salt, or to taste
- 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper, or to taste
- Optional: 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (for heat)
- Optional: 1 tbsp balsamic vinegar or 1/2 tsp sugar (for balancing sweetness/acidity)
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Spread halved tomatoes and smashed garlic on a large baking sheet. Drizzle with 1/4 cup olive oil, salt, and pepper (and red pepper flakes, if using). Toss to coat.
- Roast for 25-35 minutes, until tomatoes are soft, blistered, and slightly caramelized.
- Transfer roasted tomatoes and garlic to a large pot. Use an immersion blender to blend to your desired consistency, or mash with a potato masher for a chunkier sauce.
- Add chopped fresh basil to the pot. Bring to a gentle simmer over medium-low heat for 10-15 minutes, allowing flavors to meld.
- Taste and adjust seasoning with more salt, pepper, or a pinch of sugar/splash of balsamic vinegar if needed.
- Serve hot over pasta, garnished with fresh basil and a drizzle of olive oil.
- Prep Time: 10 mins
- Cook Time: 35 mins