Description
Discover how to make a delicious cherry tomato spaghetti sauce with our easy-to-follow, step-by-step recipe for the best flavor. This vibrant, fresh sauce comes together quickly for a perfect weeknight meal.
Ingredients
- 1 lb (about 450g) cherry tomatoes, halved if large
- 4–6 cloves garlic, thinly sliced or minced
- 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil, plus more for serving
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, adjust to taste)
- 1/2 cup fresh basil leaves, roughly torn or chopped
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 12 oz (340g) spaghetti or your favorite pasta
- 1 cup reserved pasta water
- Optional: Freshly grated Parmesan cheese and lemon zest for serving
Instructions
- 1. Prep Tomatoes and Garlic: Wash cherry tomatoes; halve if large. Peel and thinly slice or mince garlic.
- 2. Sauté Aromatics: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add garlic and red pepper flakes (if using); sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant, without burning.
- 3. Cook Tomatoes: Add cherry tomatoes, salt, and pepper to the pan. Increase heat to medium-high and cook for 8-12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until most tomatoes burst and form a saucy consistency. Gently press any un-burst tomatoes.
- 4. Simmer Sauce: Reduce heat to low and simmer for 5-7 minutes for flavors to meld. Meanwhile, cook spaghetti according to package directions in well-salted water; reserve 1 cup pasta water before draining.
- 5. Finish with Basil: Stir fresh basil into the sauce just before combining with pasta.
- 6. Combine and Serve: Add drained spaghetti to the pan with sauce. Toss vigorously to coat, adding reserved pasta water tablespoon by tablespoon if needed to reach desired consistency. Serve immediately, topped with optional Parmesan and lemon zest.
- Prep Time: 10 mins
- Cook Time: 20 mins