Description
This vibrant cherry tomato spaghetti sauce is bursting with fresh flavor and comes together in under 30 minutes. It’s the perfect weeknight meal for busy families or anyone craving a taste of summer.
Ingredients
- 2 pints (approx. 4 cups) cherry tomatoes
- 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 4–6 cloves garlic, thinly sliced
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1/2 teaspoon granulated sugar (optional, for balance)
- 1/4 cup fresh basil, roughly chopped
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- Cooked spaghetti or linguine, for serving
- Freshly grated Parmesan cheese, for serving
Instructions
- 1. Prepare Ingredients: Rinse cherry tomatoes. Slice garlic. Roughly chop fresh basil.
- 2. Sauté Aromatics: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add garlic and red pepper flakes (if using). Sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant and lightly golden.
- 3. Cook Tomatoes: Add cherry tomatoes to the skillet. Season with salt and pepper. Increase heat to medium-high and cook for 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until most tomatoes have burst.
- 4. Mash & Simmer: Use the back of a spoon to gently crush remaining whole tomatoes. Reduce heat to low, stir in optional sugar, and simmer for 5-7 minutes.
- 5. Finish: Remove from heat and stir in fresh basil. Taste and adjust seasoning. Serve immediately over cooked pasta with Parmesan cheese.
- Prep Time: 10 mins
- Cook Time: 20 mins