Description
This delightful cherry tomato spaghetti sauce is bursting with fresh, sweet-tangy flavor and comes together in under 30 minutes. It’s the perfect light and vibrant meal for any day of the week.
Ingredients
- 1 lb cherry or grape tomatoes, halved
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
- 1/2 cup fresh basil leaves, roughly chopped
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1/2 teaspoon salt, or to taste
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper, or to taste
- 12 oz spaghetti (or pasta of choice)
- 1/2 cup reserved pasta water (more if needed)
Instructions
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and red pepper flakes (if using); sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Add halved cherry tomatoes, salt, and pepper. Cook for 8-12 minutes, stirring occasionally and gently pressing some tomatoes, until they burst and soften into a sauce.
- Reduce heat to low and simmer for 5-7 minutes to deepen flavors. Taste and adjust seasoning.
- Remove from heat and stir in most of the fresh basil.
- Cook spaghetti according to package directions. Before draining, reserve 1/2 to 1 cup pasta water.
- Add drained spaghetti directly to the skillet with the sauce. Add 1/4 to 1/2 cup reserved pasta water and toss vigorously until well coated and sauce is silky. Serve immediately, garnished with remaining basil and Parmesan cheese if desired.
- Prep Time: 10 mins
- Cook Time: 20 mins