Description
This vibrant cherry tomato spaghetti sauce is bursting with natural sweetness and fresh herbaceous flavor. It’s incredibly easy to make and transforms a simple pasta dish into a gourmet experience.
Ingredients
- 1 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, thinly sliced
- ½ tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
- 2 pints (about 4 cups) cherry or grape tomatoes
- ½ tsp salt, or to taste
- ¼ tsp black pepper, or to taste
- ½ cup fresh basil leaves, roughly chopped
- Optional: ½ tsp balsamic glaze or pinch of sugar, for sweetness boost
Instructions
- 1. Prepare Tomatoes and Garlic: Wash cherry tomatoes. Thinly slice garlic cloves.
- 2. Sauté Aromatics: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-low heat. Add sliced garlic and red pepper flakes (if using). Sauté for 2-3 minutes until fragrant and lightly golden.
- 3. Add Tomatoes and Simmer: Increase heat to medium. Add cherry tomatoes, salt, and black pepper. Stir to coat. Bring to a gentle simmer, then cover and cook on low for 10-15 minutes.
- 4. Burst Tomatoes and Reduce: Uncover and use the back of a spoon to gently crush any un-burst tomatoes. Continue to simmer, uncovered, for another 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce has thickened slightly.
- 5. Stir in Fresh Basil and Season: Remove from heat. Stir in fresh basil. Taste and adjust seasoning with more salt, pepper, or an optional sweetness boost (balsamic glaze/sugar) if desired. Serve immediately with your favorite pasta.
- Prep Time: 10 mins
- Cook Time: 30-40 mins