Description
This vibrant and easy cherry tomato spaghetti sauce bursts with fresh flavor, created by gently cooking sweet cherry tomatoes until they naturally break down. It’s a quick, minimal-ingredient recipe that transforms weeknight pasta into a gourmet delight.
Ingredients
- 1.5 lbs cherry tomatoes (or grape tomatoes)
- 4–5 cloves garlic, minced or thinly sliced
- 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
- 1/2 – 1 tsp red pepper flakes (optional, to taste)
- 1/2 cup fresh basil leaves, roughly chopped
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- (Optional: 1/4 cup reserved pasta water)
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large, wide skillet or Dutch oven over medium-low heat.
- Add minced garlic and red pepper flakes (if using). Sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant and lightly golden; do not burn.
- Increase heat to medium, add cherry tomatoes, a good pinch of salt, and black pepper. Cook, stirring occasionally, for 8-10 minutes until tomatoes soften and begin to burst.
- Gently mash most of the tomatoes with the back of a spoon to create a rustic sauce. Simmer for another 5-7 minutes, allowing flavors to meld and sauce to thicken slightly.
- Remove from heat, stir in fresh basil, and taste. Adjust seasoning as needed. If serving with pasta, toss directly with cooked pasta and a splash of reserved pasta water for a silky finish.
- Prep Time: 10 mins
- Cook Time: 20 mins