Description
This vibrant cherry tomato spaghetti sauce is bursting with fresh flavor and comes together in under 30 minutes. It’s the perfect quick and satisfying meal for any night of the week.
Ingredients
- 1 lb (450g) cherry or grape tomatoes
- 3–4 cloves garlic, minced or thinly sliced
- 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 chopped
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- 1 lb (450g) spaghetti or preferred pasta
- 1/2 cup reserved pasta water (optional)
Instructions
- In a large skillet or wide pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add garlic and red pepper flakes (if using) and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant, being careful not to burn the garlic.
- Add cherry tomatoes to the pan. Season with a pinch of salt and pepper. Increase heat to medium-high and cook for 8-12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until tomatoes soften and burst, releasing their juices. Gently mash some with a spoon.
- Reduce heat to low and simmer for 5-7 minutes, allowing flavors to meld and sauce to thicken slightly.
- Remove from heat. Stir in fresh basil leaves. Taste and adjust seasonings (salt, pepper, red pepper flakes, or a tiny pinch of sugar if needed).
- Meanwhile, cook pasta according to package directions until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water before draining.
- Add drained pasta directly to the pan with the sauce. Toss vigorously, adding a splash of reserved pasta water as needed to create a glossy sauce that coats the pasta beautifully. Serve immediately with optional Parmesan cheese.
- Prep Time: 10 mins
- Cook Time: 20 mins