Description
Craft a bright and delicious homemade spaghetti sauce bursting with the fresh flavor of sweet cherry tomatoes. This easy, step-by-step recipe will become your new favorite for a vibrant weeknight meal.
Ingredients
- 2 pints (about 4 cups) cherry tomatoes, halved
- 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 4–5 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste (optional, for richness)
- 1/2 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
- 2 tablespoons fresh oregano, chopped
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- 1/4 cup reserved pasta water (optional)
- 1 pound spaghetti or pasta of choice
Instructions
- Prep Ingredients: Halve cherry tomatoes, mince garlic, and chop fresh herbs.
- Sauté Aromatics: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add minced garlic and red pepper flakes (if using); sauté 1-2 minutes until fragrant. Stir in tomato paste (if using) for 1 minute.
- Cook Tomatoes Down: Add halved cherry tomatoes to the pan. Cover and cook for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until tomatoes burst and soften. Gently smash some for a saucier texture.
- Simmer and Season: Uncover and simmer for 10-15 minutes, allowing flavors to meld and sauce to thicken. Season generously with salt and pepper; adjust to taste.
- Finish with Fresh Herbs: Remove from heat and stir in fresh basil and oregano. Toss immediately with cooked pasta.
- Prep Time: 10 mins
- Cook Time: 30 mins