Description
This vibrant, deeply flavorful sauce features sweet roasted cherry tomatoes and garlic, simmered to perfection. It’s an easy yet elegant recipe that clings beautifully to spaghetti.
Ingredients
- 2 lbs (about 900g) cherry tomatoes, washed
- 6–8 cloves garlic, peeled
- 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil, plus more for serving
- 1/2 teaspoon salt, or to taste
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper, freshly ground, or to taste
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, adjust to preference)
- 1/2 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped or torn, plus more for garnish
- 1 lb spaghetti (or your preferred pasta)
- 1 cup reserved pasta water
- Freshly grated Parmesan cheese, for serving (optional)
Instructions
- Step 1: Prep the Tomatoes and Garlic. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). On a large baking sheet, spread cherry tomatoes and peeled garlic cloves. Drizzle with olive oil, season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using). Toss to coat.
- Step 2: Roast for Deep Flavor. Roast for 25-35 minutes, or until tomatoes are blistered and softened, and garlic is tender.
- Step 3: Combine and Simmer. Transfer roasted tomatoes and garlic to a large saucepan. Gently mash some tomatoes with a fork. Bring to a gentle simmer over medium-low heat for 10-15 minutes, allowing flavors to meld.
- Step 4: Toss with Pasta. Cook spaghetti al dente according to package directions. Reserve 1 cup pasta water. Add drained spaghetti to the sauce. Add 1/2 cup reserved pasta water, tossing vigorously to coat. Add more pasta water as needed for desired consistency.
- Step 5: Finish and Serve. Remove from heat. Stir in fresh basil. Taste and adjust seasoning. Serve immediately with optional Parmesan and a drizzle of olive oil.
- Prep Time: 10 mins
- Cook Time: 45 mins