Description
Unlock the secret to an incredibly flavorful and fresh cherry tomato spaghetti sauce that tastes like summer in a bowl. This easy recipe highlights the natural sweetness of burst cherry tomatoes, creating a light yet satisfying meal perfect for any night.
Ingredients
- 2 pints (about 4 cups) cherry or grape tomatoes
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil, plus more for drizzling
- 1/4 cup water or vegetable broth
- 1/2 cup fresh basil leaves, torn or chopped
- 12 ounces spaghetti (or pasta of choice)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- Optional: 1/4 – 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes
- Optional: Freshly grated Parmesan cheese for serving
Instructions
- 1. Prepare Tomatoes: Heat 1/4 cup olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add cherry tomatoes and cook, stirring occasionally, until they soften and burst (8-10 minutes). Gently press any unburst tomatoes with a spoon.
- 2. Sauté Aromatics: Push tomatoes to one side, add a splash more olive oil, then add minced garlic (and red pepper flakes, if using). Sauté for 1 minute until fragrant. Stir garlic into tomatoes.
- 3. Simmer Sauce: Add 1/4 cup water or broth. Bring to a gentle simmer, then reduce heat to low and cook for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until slightly thickened. Season with salt and pepper.
- 4. Cook and Combine Pasta: While sauce simmers, cook spaghetti according to package directions until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup pasta water. Drain pasta and add directly to the sauce skillet. Toss well to coat, adding reserved pasta water as needed to reach desired consistency. Stir in fresh basil.
- 5. Serve: Serve immediately, garnished with extra fresh basil, a drizzle of olive oil, and Parmesan cheese, if desired.
- Prep Time: 10 mins
- Cook Time: 30 mins