Description
This vibrant cherry tomato spaghetti sauce is incredibly easy to make, bursting with the sweet and savory flavors of roasted tomatoes and garlic. It’s the perfect quick and flavorful weeknight meal that tastes like summer in a bowl.
Ingredients
- 2 lbs (about 4 cups) cherry or grape tomatoes
- 6–8 cloves garlic, smashed and peeled
- 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil, plus more for drizzling
- 1/2 cup fresh basil leaves, roughly chopped
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano (optional)
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- 1 lb spaghetti or your favorite pasta
- Parmesan cheese, for serving (optional)
Instructions
- Prep Tomatoes & Garlic: Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Spread cherry tomatoes and smashed garlic cloves on a large baking sheet. Drizzle with olive oil, season with salt and pepper, and toss gently to coat.
- Roast Tomatoes: Roast for 25-35 minutes, or until tomatoes are bursting, softened, and lightly caramelized.
- Create Sauce Base: Transfer roasted tomatoes, garlic, and pan juices to a large pot or deep skillet. Gently crush the tomatoes and garlic with a wooden spoon or potato masher to your desired consistency.
- Simmer & Finish: Bring the sauce to a gentle simmer over medium-low heat for 10-15 minutes, allowing flavors to meld. Stir in fresh basil leaves during the last minute. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
- Serve: Meanwhile, cook pasta according to package instructions. Drain, reserving some pasta water. Toss cooked pasta with the cherry tomato spaghetti sauce, adding a splash of pasta water if needed for consistency. Serve immediately, garnished with fresh Parmesan if desired.
- Prep Time: 10 mins
- Cook Time: 40 mins