Description
This easy cherry tomato spaghetti sauce delivers incredible fresh flavor with minimal effort. Naturally sweet and bright, it’s perfect for a delicious weeknight meal.
Ingredients
- 1 lb (approx. 4 cups) cherry or grape tomatoes
- 3–4 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
- 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, roughly chopped
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- Optional: Drizzle of balsamic glaze
- Optional: Freshly grated Parmesan cheese for serving
Instructions
- Prepare Tomatoes: Wash cherry tomatoes. Mince garlic. Chop basil.
- Sauté Aromatics: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-low heat. Add minced garlic and red pepper flakes (if using). Cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant, being careful not to brown.
- Add Tomatoes: Increase heat to medium. Add cherry tomatoes, salt, and pepper. Stir to coat. Cover and cook for 8-10 minutes, shaking occasionally, until most tomatoes have burst.
- Simmer: Uncover, reduce heat to low, and simmer for another 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens slightly.
- Mash and Season: Gently mash some of the tomatoes with a spoon or potato masher for desired texture. Taste and adjust seasoning (salt, pepper, optional balsamic glaze).
- Stir in Basil: Remove from heat and stir in fresh basil. Serve immediately with your favorite pasta and optional Parmesan cheese.
- Prep Time: 10 mins
- Cook Time: 25 mins