Description
This vibrant cherry tomato spaghetti sauce is a weeknight game-changer, bursting with natural sweetness and fresh basil. It comes together in under 30 minutes, transforming simple ingredients into a truly satisfying meal.
Ingredients
- 1 pint (about 2 cups) cherry or grape tomatoes, halved
- 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 3–4 cloves garlic, minced or thinly sliced
- 1/2 cup fresh basil leaves, roughly torn or chopped
- Salt, to taste
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Optional: 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes
Instructions
- Prep Tomatoes & Garlic: Halve most of the cherry tomatoes, leaving a few whole if desired. Mince the garlic.
- Sauté Garlic: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add garlic and cook for 30-60 seconds until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.
- Add Tomatoes & Simmer: Add tomatoes to the pan. Stir to coat. Bring to a gentle simmer, then cover, reduce heat to medium-low, and cook for 10-15 minutes until tomatoes are soft and bursting.
- Crush & Thicken: Uncover and gently crush the tomatoes with the back of a spoon or potato masher to your desired consistency. Simmer uncovered for another 5-10 minutes to thicken slightly.
- Finish & Season: Remove from heat. Stir in fresh basil and red pepper flakes (if using). Season generously with salt and pepper to taste. Serve immediately.
- Prep Time: 10 mins
- Cook Time: 20 mins