Name: Roasted Cherry Tomato Spaghetti Sauce
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 55 min
Ingredients: 2 lbs (approx. 900g) cherry or grape tomatoes; 6-8 cloves garlic, peeled; 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil; 1 teaspoon salt (or to taste); 1/2 teaspoon black pepper (or to taste); 1/2 – 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for heat); 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped (plus more for garnish); 1 tablespoon fresh oregano, chopped (or 1 teaspoon dried); Pinch of sugar or balsamic glaze (optional, to balance acidity); 1 lb spaghetti or your favorite pasta; Reserved pasta water (approx. 1 cup)

Description

This roasted cherry tomato spaghetti sauce is bursting with concentrated sweetness and rich Italian flavors. It’s an easy, hands-off recipe perfect for a weeknight meal.

Ingredients

2 lbs (approx. 900g) cherry or grape tomatoes
6–8 cloves garlic, peeled
1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
1 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
1/2 teaspoon black pepper (or to taste)
1/2 – 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped (plus more for garnish)
1 tablespoon fresh oregano, chopped (or 1 teaspoon dried)
Pinch of sugar or balsamic glaze (optional, to balance acidity)
1 lb spaghetti or your favorite pasta
Reserved pasta water (approx. 1 cup)

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare Your Tomatoes and Aromatics. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Wash and pat dry cherry tomatoes. Spread them in a single layer on a large baking sheet with peeled garlic cloves. Drizzle generously with olive oil, then season with salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using). Toss to coat evenly. Use two pans if necessary to avoid overcrowding.
Step 2: Roast to Perfection. Bake for 30-40 minutes, or until tomatoes have burst, softened, and started to caramelize. Garlic should be golden and soft.
Step 3: Blend or Crush for Desired Texture. Transfer roasted tomatoes, garlic, and all juices to a pot. For a chunky sauce, crush with a potato masher. For a smoother sauce, use an immersion blender or cool slightly and blend in a regular blender.
Step 4: Simmer and Infuse. Return sauce to the pot. Stir in fresh basil and oregano. Bring to a gentle simmer over medium-low heat for 10-15 minutes to meld flavors. Taste and adjust seasonings, adding sugar or balsamic glaze if needed to balance acidity.
Step 5: The Grand Finale: Toss with Pasta. Cook spaghetti to al dente, reserving 1 cup of pasta water. Add drained pasta directly to the sauce. Toss vigorously, adding reserved pasta water as needed to create a glossy sauce that coats the pasta. Serve immediately, garnished with fresh basil and Parmesan if desired.

Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 45 mins