Description
This simple yet incredibly flavorful cherry tomato spaghetti sauce is perfect for weeknights, bursting with natural sweetness and aromatic herbs. It’s a fresh, vibrant alternative to traditional tomato sauces that comes together in under 30 minutes.
Ingredients
- 1.5 lbs (about 4 cups) cherry or grape tomatoes, halved
- 3–4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, adjust to taste)
- 1/2 cup fresh basil leaves, torn or roughly chopped
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1 lb spaghetti or your preferred pasta
- Parmesan cheese, for serving (optional)
Instructions
- 1. Prep Tomatoes & Garlic: Halve all cherry tomatoes. Mince the garlic cloves. Have fresh basil ready.
- 2. Sauté Aromatics: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add minced garlic and red pepper flakes (if using); sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant, being careful not to burn the garlic.
- 3. Add Tomatoes & Simmer: Add halved cherry tomatoes to the pan. Season generously with salt and pepper. Increase heat to medium-high to bring to a gentle simmer, then reduce to medium-low, cover, and cook for 10-15 minutes until tomatoes are soft and many have burst.
- 4. Burst & Mash: Remove lid. Using a wooden spoon or potato masher, gently mash unburst tomatoes and some softened ones for a rustic texture. Simmer uncovered for another 5-10 minutes, allowing sauce to thicken slightly.
- 5. Finish & Serve: Remove from heat. Stir in fresh basil. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Toss with cooked pasta and serve immediately, garnished with Parmesan if desired.
- Prep Time: 10 mins
- Cook Time: 20 mins