Description
This simple yet incredibly flavorful sauce features sweet roasted cherry tomatoes and garlic, creating a vibrant and rich pasta experience. It’s perfect for busy weeknights but tastes like it simmered all day.
Ingredients
- 2 pounds cherry or grape tomatoes, halved
- 6–8 cloves garlic, smashed and peeled
- ¼ cup extra virgin olive oil, plus more for garnish
- 1 teaspoon sea salt, or to taste
- ½ teaspoon black pepper, or to taste
- ½ cup fresh basil leaves, roughly chopped
- Optional: ½ small yellow onion, finely diced
- Optional: ¼ cup dry red or white wine
- Optional: ½ teaspoon granulated sugar (to balance acidity)
- Optional: ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes
Instructions
- 1. Prepare Tomatoes & Garlic: Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Halve cherry tomatoes and smash garlic cloves.
- 2. Roast: Toss tomatoes and garlic with olive oil, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet. Roast for 20-30 minutes until soft and caramelized.
- 3. Simmer: Transfer roasted tomatoes and garlic to a saucepan. (If using onion, sauté it first in the saucepan until soft, then add roasted tomatoes). Simmer over medium-low heat for 15-20 minutes.
- 4. Mash for Texture: Use a potato masher to create a chunky sauce, or blend for a smoother consistency.
- 5. Finish: Remove from heat, stir in fresh basil. Taste and adjust seasonings (salt, pepper, sugar, red pepper flakes) as needed.
- 6. Serve: Toss with your favorite cooked pasta and enjoy immediately.
- Prep Time: 15 mins
- Cook Time: 45 mins