Description
A vibrant and flavorful cherry tomato spaghetti sauce made with bursting roasted tomatoes and fresh basil. This recipe is a weeknight lifesaver that delivers incredible taste and a velvety texture.
Ingredients
- 1.5 lbs (approx. 4-5 cups) cherry or grape tomatoes
- 3–4 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
- 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional, adjust to taste)
- 1/2 cup vegetable broth or reserved pasta water, plus more if needed
- 1/2 cup fresh basil leaves, roughly chopped
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- 12 oz spaghetti or your preferred pasta
- Freshly grated Parmesan cheese, for serving (optional)
Instructions
- 1. Prepare Tomatoes and Garlic: Wash cherry tomatoes. Mince garlic.
- 2. Sauté Tomatoes: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add minced garlic and red pepper flakes (if using); sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant. Add cherry tomatoes, increase heat to medium-high, and cook, stirring occasionally, for 8-10 minutes until tomatoes soften and burst.
- 3. Simmer Sauce: Reduce heat to low. Add 1/2 cup broth or pasta water. Simmer gently for 10-15 minutes, allowing flavors to meld.
- 4. Mash & Season: Gently mash some tomatoes with a spoon or potato masher for a thicker sauce. Remove from heat. Stir in fresh basil. Season generously with salt and pepper.
- 5. Combine with Pasta: Cook pasta according to package directions, reserving 1 cup of pasta water before draining. Add drained pasta to the sauce, tossing to combine. Add reserved pasta water as needed to achieve desired consistency. Serve immediately with optional Parmesan.
- Prep Time: 10 mins
- Cook Time: 25 mins