Description
A vibrant, rustic spaghetti sauce made with fresh cherry tomatoes, garlic, and basil. It’s naturally sweet, tangy, and incredibly quick to make for a perfect weeknight meal.
Ingredients
- 2 pints (about 4 cups) cherry or grape tomatoes
- 3–4 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, adjust to taste)
- 1/2 teaspoon salt, or to taste
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper, or to taste
- 1/2 cup fresh basil leaves, roughly chopped
- For serving: Cooked spaghetti, Parmesan cheese
Instructions
- 1. Prepare Tomatoes & Garlic: Rinse cherry tomatoes. Mince garlic.
- 2. Sauté Aromatics: In a large skillet over medium heat, heat olive oil. Add minced garlic and red pepper flakes (if using); sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant. Do not brown.
- 3. Add Tomatoes & Simmer: Add whole cherry tomatoes, salt, and pepper. Increase heat to medium-high. Cook, stirring occasionally, until tomatoes begin to burst (5-7 minutes). Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 10-15 minutes until softened and saucy.
- 4. Mash & Season: Uncover and use a potato masher or spoon to gently mash about half of the tomatoes for a rustic texture. Taste and adjust salt, pepper, or add a tiny pinch of sugar if needed to balance acidity.
- 5. Finish with Basil: Remove from heat and stir in fresh basil. Toss immediately with cooked spaghetti and serve with fresh Parmesan cheese.
- Prep Time: 10 mins
- Cook Time: 20 mins