Description
Discover how to make a delicious and vibrant cherry tomato spaghetti sauce with this easy-to-follow, step-by-step recipe. Enjoy the freshest flavors in under 30 minutes for a perfect weeknight meal.
Ingredients
- 2 lbs cherry or grape tomatoes, halved
- 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
- 4–5 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1/2 cup fresh basil, chopped
- 2 tbsp fresh oregano, chopped
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- 1 lb spaghetti or your preferred pasta
- 1/2 cup pasta water (reserved)
- Balsamic glaze (optional, for serving)
Instructions
- Prep Tomatoes: Halve all cherry tomatoes and set aside.
- Sauté Aromatics: In a large skillet or Dutch oven, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and red pepper flakes (if using). Sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant, being careful not to burn.
- Simmer Tomatoes: Add halved cherry tomatoes, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Increase heat to medium-high and cook, stirring occasionally, for 10-15 minutes until tomatoes burst and soften, releasing their juices.
- Adjust Consistency: For a chunky sauce, use the back of a spoon or potato masher to lightly crush tomatoes. For a smoother sauce, carefully blend with an immersion blender or standard blender until desired consistency.
- Finish & Serve: Remove from heat and stir in fresh basil and oregano. Taste and adjust seasoning. Toss with cooked spaghetti and a splash of reserved pasta water to emulsify. Serve immediately, optionally drizzled with balsamic glaze.
- Prep Time: 10 mins
- Cook Time: 20 mins