Description
Unlock the best flavor with this step-by-step cherry tomato spaghetti sauce recipe. Easy to make and bursting with fresh ingredients.
Ingredients
- 2 pints (about 4 cups) cherry or grape tomatoes
- 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 4–5 cloves garlic, minced or thinly sliced
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, adjust to taste)
- 1/2 cup fresh basil leaves, roughly chopped, plus more for garnish
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt, or to taste
- 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper, or to taste
- Optional: 1 teaspoon balsamic glaze or a pinch of sugar, for balance
- 1 pound spaghetti or your preferred pasta
- 1/4 – 1/2 cup reserved pasta water
Instructions
- Rinse cherry tomatoes and gently prick each with a fork or make a small incision.
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and red pepper flakes (if using); sauté 1-2 minutes until fragrant, being careful not to burn.
- Add prepared cherry tomatoes to the skillet. Season with salt and pepper. Stir, then cover and simmer on medium-low for 10-15 minutes until tomatoes are softened and burst.
- Uncover. Using a wooden spoon or potato masher, gently smash any remaining whole tomatoes. Continue to simmer uncovered for 5-10 minutes until sauce thickens. Stir in fresh basil. Taste and adjust seasoning, adding balsamic or sugar if desired.
- Cook spaghetti according to package directions, reserving 1/2 cup pasta water. Drain pasta and add directly to the skillet with the sauce. Toss to combine, adding reserved pasta water as needed to reach desired consistency. Serve immediately.
- Prep Time: 10 mins
- Cook Time: 25 mins