Description
A vibrant and easy cherry tomato spaghetti sauce recipe that bursts with fresh flavors. Perfect for a quick and delicious weeknight meal.
Ingredients
- 1 lb (450g) cherry or grape tomatoes, halved
- 3–4 cloves garlic, thinly sliced
- 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1 lb (450g) spaghetti or your favorite pasta
- 1/2 cup fresh basil leaves, roughly chopped
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1–2 cups reserved pasta water
Instructions
- 1. Prepare Tomatoes & Pasta: Halve cherry tomatoes. Cook spaghetti in well-salted water. Reserve 1-2 cups pasta water before draining.
- 2. Sauté Aromatics: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add garlic and red pepper flakes; sauté 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
- 3. Simmer Sauce: Add tomatoes, salt, and pepper to skillet. Cook 8-12 minutes, stirring and crushing some tomatoes until they burst and form a sauce. Stir in 1/2 cup reserved pasta water and simmer a few more minutes.
- 4. Incorporate Pasta: Add drained spaghetti to the sauce. Toss to coat, adding more pasta water as needed for desired consistency. Cook 1-2 minutes.
- 5. Finish & Serve: Remove from heat. Stir in fresh basil. Taste and adjust seasoning. Serve immediately, optionally with Parmesan cheese.
- Prep Time: 10 mins
- Cook Time: 20 mins