Description
This easy cherry tomato spaghetti sauce recipe is bursting with fresh flavor and comes together in under 30 minutes. Perfect for a quick weeknight meal or a delightful Sunday supper.
Ingredients
- 1.5 lbs (about 4 cups) cherry or grape tomatoes
- 4–6 cloves garlic, thinly sliced
- 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
- 1/2 cup fresh basil leaves, roughly chopped
- 1/2 teaspoon salt, or to taste
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper, or to taste
- Pinch of red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1 lb spaghetti or your favorite pasta
Instructions
- 1. Prepare Ingredients: Wash and pat dry cherry tomatoes. Thinly slice garlic cloves. Roughly chop fresh basil.
- 2. Sauté Garlic: In a large skillet or wide pot, heat olive oil over medium-low heat. Add sliced garlic and sauté for 2-3 minutes until fragrant and just lightly golden. Do not burn.
- 3. Add Tomatoes: Increase heat to medium. Add cherry tomatoes to the skillet. Cook, stirring occasionally, for 8-12 minutes until tomatoes soften, wrinkle, and begin to burst.
- 4. Burst and Mash: Once most tomatoes have burst, use the back of a wooden spoon or potato masher to gently crush any remaining whole tomatoes. Simmer for another 5 minutes to thicken slightly.
- 5. Finish and Season: Remove from heat. Stir in fresh basil. Season with salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using). Taste and adjust seasoning.
- 6. Serve: Toss immediately with cooked pasta. Garnish with fresh Parmesan and extra basil if desired.
- Prep Time: 10 mins
- Cook Time: 20 mins