Description
Unlock the incredible, natural sweetness of cherry tomatoes with this simple yet intensely flavorful spaghetti sauce recipe. It’s a vibrant, fresh, and perfectly textured sauce that comes together quickly for a delicious meal.
Ingredients
- 1.5 lbs (approx. 680g) cherry or grape tomatoes
- 4–6 cloves garlic, finely minced
- 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, adjust to taste)
- 1/2 teaspoon salt, plus more to taste
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper, plus more to taste
- 1/2 cup fresh basil leaves, roughly chopped
- 1 lb spaghetti or your favorite pasta
- 1 cup reserved pasta water (approx.)
Instructions
- 1. Prepare Ingredients: Wash tomatoes. Mince garlic. Cook pasta according to package directions in salted water; reserve 1 cup pasta water before draining.
- 2. Sauté Aromatics: In a large skillet or Dutch oven, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and red pepper flakes. Sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant, being careful not to burn.
- 3. Add Tomatoes & Simmer: Add cherry tomatoes to the pan. Season with salt and pepper. Increase heat to medium-high and cook for 8-10 minutes, stirring, until tomatoes soften and burst. Gently crush about half of the tomatoes with a spoon or masher. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes, allowing flavors to meld.
- 4. Finish Sauce with Pasta: Stir fresh basil into the sauce. Add drained pasta directly to the sauce with a splash or two of reserved pasta water. Toss vigorously until pasta is well coated. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Serve immediately with optional Parmesan cheese.
- Prep Time: 10 mins
- Cook Time: 30 mins