Description
This vibrant cherry tomato spaghetti sauce bursts with fresh flavor and comes together in under 30 minutes. It’s the perfect weeknight meal for busy home cooks.
Ingredients
- 2 pints (about 4 cups) cherry or grape tomatoes
- 4–5 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, adjust to taste)
- 1/4 cup water or vegetable broth
- 1/2 cup fresh basil leaves, torn or roughly chopped
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Optional: 1 tsp balsamic glaze, for serving
Instructions
- 1. Prep Ingredients: Wash tomatoes. Mince garlic.
- 2. Sauté Aromatics & Tomatoes: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high. Add garlic and red pepper flakes; sauté 30-60 seconds until fragrant. Add cherry tomatoes; cook, stirring occasionally, for 8-10 minutes until they soften, wrinkle, and burst.
- 3. Simmer: Reduce heat to medium-low. Add water/broth, salt, and pepper. Simmer uncovered for 10-15 minutes, allowing flavors to meld and sauce to slightly reduce.
- 4. Crush Tomatoes: Use the back of a spoon or potato masher to gently crush remaining whole tomatoes for desired consistency. Taste and adjust seasoning.
- 5. Finish: Remove from heat. Stir in fresh basil. Drizzle with balsamic glaze if using. Serve immediately over your favorite pasta.
- Prep Time: 10 mins
- Cook Time: 20 mins