Description
This vibrant and incredibly easy cherry tomato spaghetti sauce bursts with fresh, sweet tomato flavor and comes together in under 30 minutes. It’s the perfect weeknight meal solution that tastes gourmet.
Ingredients
- 1.5 lbs (about 680g) cherry or grape tomatoes
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
- 1/2 – 1 tsp red pepper flakes (optional, to taste)
- 1/2 cup fresh basil leaves, torn
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- (Optional: 1/2 tsp balsamic vinegar or 1 tbsp dry red wine for acid balance)
- For serving: cooked spaghetti, fresh Parmesan cheese
Instructions
- 1. In a large, deep skillet or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes. Sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant and lightly golden; do not burn.
- 2. Add the cherry tomatoes to the skillet. Season with a pinch of salt and pepper. Increase heat to medium-high, bring to a gentle simmer, then cover. Cook for 8-10 minutes, or until the tomatoes have softened and burst.
- 3. Remove the lid. Using the back of a spoon or a potato masher, gently smash about half of the tomatoes to release their juices and create a saucier consistency.
- 4. Reduce heat to medium-low and simmer, uncovered, for another 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce has thickened to your liking. If using, add balsamic vinegar or red wine here.
- 5. Remove from heat. Stir in the fresh basil leaves. Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper as needed.
- 6. Serve immediately over hot spaghetti with a generous grating of fresh Parmesan cheese and extra basil.
- Prep Time: 10 mins
- Cook Time: 20 mins