Description
This vibrant and fresh cherry tomato spaghetti sauce recipe is incredibly simple yet packed with bursting sweet and tangy flavors. It’s the perfect light, satisfying meal for any night of the week.
Ingredients
- 2 lbs (about 4 cups) cherry tomatoes, whole
- 4–5 cloves garlic, thinly sliced or minced
- 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil (plus more for serving)
- 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (or more, to taste)
- 1/2 cup fresh basil leaves, torn or roughly chopped
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Optional: Parmesan cheese for serving
Instructions
- Step 1: Prep Ingredients: Wash cherry tomatoes; keep them whole. Peel and mince garlic cloves. Have basil ready.
- Step 2: Sauté Aromatics: In a large skillet or Dutch oven, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add garlic and red pepper flakes; sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant and lightly golden. Be careful not to burn.
- Step 3: Simmer Tomatoes: Add whole cherry tomatoes to the skillet. Stir to coat. Increase heat to medium-high for a few minutes until tomatoes begin to burst. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 20-30 minutes, stirring occasionally and gently mashing some tomatoes.
- Step 4: Finish with Basil & Season: Remove from heat. Stir in fresh basil leaves. Season generously with salt and freshly ground black pepper. Taste and adjust seasonings as needed.
- Step 5: Serve: Toss warm sauce with your favorite cooked spaghetti or pasta. Garnish with extra basil or Parmesan cheese, and a drizzle of fresh olive oil if desired.
- Prep Time: 10 mins
- Cook Time: 30 mins