Description
An incredibly easy and flavorful cherry tomato spaghetti sauce that’s perfect for weeknights. Bursts with fresh, sweet, and tangy notes, clinging beautifully to your favorite pasta.
Ingredients
- 1.5 lbs (approx. 4 cups) cherry or grape tomatoes
- 3–4 cloves garlic, minced
- 3–4 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
- 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional, adjust to taste)
- 1/2 tsp salt, or to taste
- 1/4 tsp black pepper, or to taste
- 1/4 – 1/2 tsp sugar (optional, if tomatoes are tart)
- 1/4 cup fresh basil, roughly chopped or torn
- 2 tbsp freshly grated Parmesan cheese (optional, for serving or stirring in)
Instructions
- 1. Prep Ingredients: Wash tomatoes. Mince garlic. Have basil ready.
- 2. Sauté Aromatics: Heat olive oil in a wide skillet over medium heat. Add minced garlic and red pepper flakes (if using). Sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant, do not brown.
- 3. Add Tomatoes: Add cherry tomatoes to the skillet. Season with salt and black pepper. Increase heat to medium-high.
- 4. Simmer and Reduce: Cook, stirring occasionally and gently pressing on some tomatoes to help them burst. Simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until most tomatoes have burst and the sauce has thickened to your desired consistency.
- 5. Mash and Season: Use a potato masher or spoon to mash any remaining whole tomatoes. Taste and adjust seasoning, adding a pinch of sugar if needed to balance acidity.
- 6. Finish with Basil: Remove from heat. Stir in fresh basil. Serve immediately over cooked pasta, garnished with Parmesan cheese if desired.
- Prep Time: 10 mins
- Cook Time: 20 mins