Description
Unlock the best flavor with this cherry tomato spaghetti sauce! This step-by-step guide makes it easy to create a delicious and fresh pasta dish.
Ingredients
- 1.5 lbs (about 4 cups) cherry or grape tomatoes, halved
- 3–4 cloves garlic, minced or thinly sliced
- 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
- 1/2 cup fresh basil leaves, roughly chopped
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- 12 oz spaghetti or your preferred pasta
- Reserved pasta water (about 1 cup)
- Freshly grated Parmesan cheese, for serving (optional)
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add garlic (and red pepper flakes if using) and cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
- Add halved cherry tomatoes to the skillet. Increase heat to medium-high and cook for 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until most tomatoes burst and soften. Gently mash any remaining whole tomatoes.
- Reduce heat to low and simmer for another 5-7 minutes, allowing flavors to meld and sauce to thicken slightly.
- Remove from heat, stir in fresh basil, and season generously with salt and pepper to taste.
- Cook spaghetti according to package directions. Drain, reserving about 1 cup of pasta water.
- Add cooked spaghetti directly to the sauce. Toss well, adding reserved pasta water as needed to create a glossy sauce that coats the pasta.
- Serve immediately with a sprinkle of fresh Parmesan cheese, if desired.
- Prep Time: 10 mins
- Cook Time: 25 mins