Description
This delightful cherry tomato spaghetti sauce is bursting with fresh flavor, boasting a natural sweetness and rich texture. It’s incredibly easy to make, transforming simple ingredients into a gourmet meal that clings beautifully to pasta.
Ingredients
- 2 pints (about 4 cups) cherry or grape tomatoes
- 6–8 cloves garlic, whole and unpeeled
- 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
- 1 teaspoon sea salt, or to taste
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper, or to taste
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
- 1/4 cup fresh basil, roughly chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh oregano, chopped (or 1/2 tsp dried)
- 1 Parmesan rind (optional, for simmering)
- Pasta water (as needed, for thinning)
- Balsamic glaze (optional, for drizzling)
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). On a large baking sheet, toss cherry tomatoes and unpeeled garlic cloves with olive oil, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes. Spread in a single layer.
- Roast for 20-25 minutes, until tomatoes are soft, blistered, and some have burst. Garlic should be tender.
- Transfer roasted tomatoes and peeled garlic to a medium saucepan. Crush the tomatoes gently with a potato masher or spoon. Add Parmesan rind (if using).
- Simmer on low-medium heat for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally. Remove Parmesan rind.
- Stir in fresh basil and oregano. Taste and adjust seasoning. If desired, thin with a splash of pasta water and drizzle with balsamic glaze before serving with your favorite pasta.
- Prep Time: 10 mins
- Cook Time: 35 mins